Job Details

Overview

Director of Technology Commercialization at University of Mississippi. The Director will lead the strategic development and execution of technology commercialization initiatives, fostering innovation, protecting intellectual property, and facilitating the transition of research and technologies into commercial applications.

Examples of Work Performed

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement a comprehensive technology transfer and commercialization strategy aligned with the Office for Research and Economic Development and the University of Mississippis goals.
• Intellectual Property Management: Oversee the identification, evaluation, protection, and management of intellectual property (IP), including patents, copyrights, and trademarks.
• Commercialization: Identify market opportunities, develop licensing agreements, and negotiate partnerships with industry, startups, and other entities to commercialize technologies.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Build and maintain relationships with researchers, faculty, industry partners, investors, and government agencies to support technology transfer objectives.
• Program Development: Establish policies, procedures, and programs to streamline technology transfer processes and enhance commercialization outcomes.
• Funding and Investment: Secure funding through grants, partnerships, or venture capital to support technology development and startup initiatives.
• Team Management: Lead, mentor, and develop a team of technology transfer professionals, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration.
• Compliance and Reporting: Ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations related to IP and technology transfer, and provide regular reports to senior leadership.
• Outreach and Education: Promote awareness of technology transfer and commercialization opportunities through workshops, seminars, and outreach activities to those internal and external to the University of Mississippi.

Essential Functions

• Directs the identification, protection, marketing, and commercialization of intellectual property rights arising from research activities within the University.
• Develops, reviews, and approves technology transfer policies in alignment with institutional goals.
• Develops strategic goals and ensures progress by monitoring and approving metrics reported to internal and external stakeholders.

Minimum Education/Experience

Education: Bachelor's Degree

Experience: 10 years experience, 6 years of supervisory experience

Preferred Qualifications

Education: Advanced degree (Masters or Ph.D.) in business, law, science, engineering, or a related field. An MBA or JD is a plus.

Experience: Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in technology transfer, commercialization, or a related field, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.

Preferred Skills

• Proven track record in IP management, licensing, and negotiating complex agreements.
• Strong understanding of market analysis, business development, and startup ecosystems.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Knowledge of federal regulations (e.g., Bayh-Dole Act) and industry standards.
• Lead a team of diverse specialties to accomplish the goals and objects of the office.

EEO Statement

The University of Mississippi provides equal opportunity in any employment practice, education program, or education activity to all qualified persons. The University complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin, ethnicity, citizenship, age, disability, military status, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.

Minimum Physical Requirements

Physical requirements: These physical requirements are not exhaustive and may be added to by agencies as needed. Corrective devices may be used. Physical Exertion: may lift up to 10 pounds. Vision: close vision. Speaking/Hearing: ability to communicate. Motor coordination: may require talking, hearing, and using hands; may require sitting, standing, walking, and reaching.