The University of Tennessee Research Foundation provides technology transfer for the University of Tennessee and assists the University of Tennessee in cultivating an environment inclusive of scientific and entrepreneurial excellence. Through offices in Knoxville and Memphis, UTRF connects UT’s research community to industry and startups by strategically evaluating, protecting, and licensing technology.
Job Functions/Responsibilities
The Knoxville office of UTRF is seeking an Assistant/Associate/Full Technology Manager with a background in engineering, life science, chemical sciences, or physical sciences to manage the commercialization of early stage discoveries. Reporting to the Vice President of UTRF, the Technology Manager will be involved in all aspects of the technology transfer process. Specifically, the Technology Manager will be responsible for:
- Building relationships with researchers to identify new intellectual property.
- Performing comprehensive and strategic evaluations of technologies, including determinations of patentability, commercial potential, and path-to-market.
- Managing patent preparation and prosecution. This includes selection of external patent counsel, working with the researchers, patent coordinator to file applications prior to publication dates, and overseeing ongoing prosecution.
- Developing and deploying an effective marketing strategy to attract industry partners.
- Negotiating commercialization agreements.
- Overseeing active licenses to ensure licensee compliance.
- Promoting and supporting faculty and student entrepreneurship.
Position will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Physics, Chemistry discipline plus 5 years of relevant professional experience, or a Master’s degree in Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Life Sciences discipline or higher.
- Ability to work independently while managing multiple projects.
- Outstanding written and oral communication skills.
- Ability to quickly understand unfamiliar research and technologies.
- Due to export control restrictions the successful candidate must be a U.S. citizen or resident alien with a green card.
Desired Qualifications
- PhD in Engineering. Physics, Chemistry or Life Sciences.
- MBA, JD, or Patent Agent.
- Familiarity with intellectual property law.
- Experience in material sciences, advanced manufacturing, or composite technologies.
- 2+ years of experience in intellectual property management and technology transfer.
- Experience working in/with technology startup(s) or business incubators.
- Familiarity with or experience in intellectual property management and technology transfer.
- Familiarity with or experience in a university research environment and capacity to analyze complex research programs.
To receive full consideration, candidates should apply electronically with a cover letter, resume and professional references.
Primary Location
Knoxville, Tennessee
Organization
UT Research Foundation
Schedule
Full-Time