Job Description
Join NextGen Innovations as a 2026 Technology Futurist and shape the future of human-machine interaction. We're seeking a visionary strategist to develop roadmaps for emerging technologies that will redefine industries by 2026. This role combines cutting-edge research with practical implementation planning, requiring you to anticipate societal shifts, technological inflection points, and market disruptions. You'll collaborate with AI researchers, quantum computing teams, and biotech pioneers to create actionable frameworks for our 2026 innovation portfolio.
Why NextGen? We're a venture-backed deep-tech incubator with $500M+ in funding, dedicated to accelerating breakthrough technologies. Our Austin campus features state-of-the-art labs and a culture where radical ideas thrive. This position reports directly to our Chief Innovation Officer and includes equity in our portfolio companies.
Responsibilities
- Analyze global tech trends to identify paradigm-shifting opportunities for 2026 implementation
- Develop cross-technology roadmaps integrating AI, quantum computing, and neurotech
- Partner with product teams to prioritize R&D investments based on 2026 market readiness
- Produce scenario analyses for regulatory, ethical, and societal implications of emerging tech
- Lead quarterly futurist symposia with industry leaders and academic partners
- Build predictive models for technology adoption curves and disruption timelines
- Mentor junior innovation strategists in foresight methodologies
Qualifications
- 10+ years in technology strategy or futurist consulting with Fortune 500/unicorns
- Advanced degree in Technology Forecasting, Systems Engineering, or related field
- Published research on exponential technologies (AI, quantum, synthetic biology)
- Proven experience developing 5+ year technology implementation roadmaps
- Expertise in scenario planning and horizon scanning methodologies
- Deep understanding of ethical frameworks for emerging technologies
- Exceptional communication skills for translating complex concepts to diverse stakeholders
- Portfolio of published futurist analyses or technology forecasts