The MIT Media Lab applies an unorthodox research approach to envision the impact of emerging technologies on everyday life. This research is supported by more than 80 member companies, including some of the world’s leading corporations, which provide the majority of the Lab’s approximately $50-million annual operating budget. Businesses represented range from electronics to entertainment, furniture to finance, and greeting cards to telecommunications.

The research guide will assist in managing the flow of visits, meetings, and tours in an office dedicated to developing new member companies and maintaining relationships with existing members. He/she will have the opportunity to interact with high-level representatives from prominent companies, as well as visitors from government and foundations, and alumni of MIT and the Media Lab. He/she will become familiar with the wide variety of research projects in the Lab and get to know faculty, researchers, and graduate students. This position is a great opportunity for a recent graduate interested in a first-hand look at one of the most innovative laboratories in the world.

Responsibilities:

• Managing visits and supporting events for both prospective and existing member companies, including: preparing customized agendas, coordinating registration, reserving rooms, helping arrange research demonstrations with researchers, escorting members around the Lab, arranging catering
• Thorough note taking on company interests and questions during visits to enhance member experience
• Researching current and prospective member companies using Google, Hoovers, and other research tools to contribute to Lab’s understanding of companies’ needs
• Interacting directly with representatives of current and prospective member companies, many of which are outside the United States, via email, telephone and in person
• Keeping abreast of current research and activities within the Lab by attending demos, and talking with faculty, researchers, staff, and students in order to provide members with the best information and experience
• Greeting company representatives and other guests and groups and introducing them to the Media Lab, including conducting tours
• Answering questions from unscheduled visitors in the Media Lab lobby

This is a one year appointment.