Technical Scientific, Engineering & Technical Assistant, ASCENT

Role Overview The Technical Scientific, Engineering & Technical Assistant (Tech SETA) will support ASCENT’s program operations in Japan. Serving as a trusted technical resource to the ASCENT Program Director and Venture Directors, the Tech SETA will provide domain expertise, conduct technical due diligence, and engage with performers across the program portfolio.

Key Responsibilities Conduct technical due diligence on proposals and venture candidates in AI, machine vision, and robotics. Monitor milestone progress for funded performers and flag technical risk to the Program Director. Provide domain expertise to support portfolio design, Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) development, and evaluation criteria. Participate in site visits, demo days, and peer reviews, and facilitate knowledge exchange across the portfolio. Support ecosystem mapping, including competitive and IP landscapes and opportunities for new spinouts. Serve as a liaison between Japanese academic and industry stakeholders and the ASCENT leadership team. Prepare clear, decision-ready technical summaries and briefing materials in both Japanese and English.

Required Qualifications Language Native-level proficiency in Japanese, including reading, writing, and speaking. Professional fluency in English sufficient for technical writing, presentations, and engagement with stakeholders in Japan and internationally. Education Master's degree or higher in Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, or a closely related field. Technical Experience Demonstrated expertise in one or more of the following: AI and machine learning, machine vision and computer vision, robotics, and autonomous systems. Experience evaluating or supporting early-stage technology development through R&D program management, venture assessment, applied research, or a related setting. Familiarity with Japan's research and innovation ecosystem, including universities, national laboratories, JST or NEDO programs, and startups.

Preferred Qualifications Ph.D. in a relevant engineering or computer science discipline. Previous experience in an R&D program management or advisory role within government, FFRDC, a Japanese National Research and Development Agency (Kokuritsu Kenkyuu Kaihatsu Houjin), or the private sector. Knowledge of ARPA-style program design, milestone-based funding, or Heilmeier Catechism-style program evaluation. A professional network spanning Japanese academia, industry, and government, particularly in advanced manufacturing or intelligent systems.

Values You will thrive within our team if you: Share our mission and ambition: You believe in the power of science, innovation, and technology to create a brighter future for all. Demonstrate high agency: You turn ambitious ideas into action and find paths through apparent constraints. Inspire others and collaborate generously: You can motivate people around a shared mission and understand that the most ambitious goals require strong partnerships. Recognize exceptional talent and the power of networks: You can identify and nurture outstanding people and understand how strong networks amplify their impact. Thrive in ambitious, fast-moving environments: You are comfortable navigating ambiguity, adapting quickly, and helping shape work as it evolves.

Compensation Compensation will be commensurate with experience. This is a contractor position, and further details will be discussed with qualified candidates during the interview process.

Diversity We encourage you to apply even if you do not meet every listed qualification. The strongest candidates will bring unique perspectives and experiences that complement our mission. Renaissance Philanthropy is an equal-opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive environment for all team members.