Job Description
Join Horizon Labs at the forefront of tomorrow's technological revolution. We're seeking a visionary 2026 Technology Futurist to architect the next decade of innovation. This pivotal role bridges cutting-edge research with market-ready solutions, shaping how humanity interacts with emerging technologies. You'll lead cross-functional teams in developing strategic roadmaps that anticipate societal needs and disrupt traditional industries. Our Austin-based hub offers unparalleled resources to transform theoretical concepts into tangible impact.
As a key architect of our 2026 vision, you'll collaborate with Nobel laureates, Silicon Valley pioneers, and government agencies to implement sustainable tech frameworks. This position includes executive-level influence over R&D investments and policy recommendations. We offer competitive equity, flexible hybrid work, and dedicated innovation lab access.
Responsibilities
- Develop strategic technology roadmaps for 2026-2030, anticipating quantum computing, neural interfaces, and climate tech breakthroughs
- Lead cross-functional teams in prototyping next-gen solutions with $5M+ annual R&D budget
- Conduct horizon scanning and competitive analysis across 15+ emerging tech domains
- Present findings to C-suite executives and government innovation boards
- Establish ethical frameworks for AI/autonomous systems deployment
- Mentor junior researchers through Horizon Labs' Future Leaders program
- Author annual 'State of 2026 Technology' whitepapers
Qualifications
- PhD in Computer Science, Engineering, or Futuristics with 10+ years tech strategy experience
- Proven track record in scaling emerging technologies from concept to commercialization
- Expertise in at least three of: quantum computing, synthetic biology, AGI ethics, climate tech
- Executive-level presentation skills with 50+ keynote presentations
- Published author in peer-reviewed tech journals or major innovation forums
- Deep familiarity with DARPA/IARPA funding mechanisms
- Fluency in future forecasting methodologies (Delphi, Scenario Planning)
- Ability to secure $1M+ in innovation grants annually