Commercialization Fellow

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities and is among is the top ten research universities in the nation for federal research expenditures as well as for federally funded social and behavioral sciences research and development.

Here at Carolina, our highly skilled postdocs play a vital role in our research enterprise and towards our overall commitment to research excellence. Across many disciplines, postdocs contribute to the intellectual vitality of the University. They provide innovative ideas and perspectives, foster a stimulating research environment and advance knowledge within their fields. Postdocs are crucial members of our scientific research workforce, contributors to our research outputs and an important reason why Carolina is one of the leading public research institutions in the country.

UNC-Chapel Hill offers postdocs comprehensive medical and vision coverage, paid leave, and benefits and services that support professional development and a healthy work/life balance. Chapel Hill regularly ranks as one of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, a reputation guided by the diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit

The Office of Technology Commercialization (OTC) is located within the Vice Chancellor's Office for Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Economic Development. OTC manages the University's intellectual property including patenting, marketing and negotiating licenses for the commercialization of University owned inventions. KickStart Ventures is a division within OTC that supports faculty founded startups.

Position Summary

This position is located in the Office of Technology Commercialization (OTC) which is located in the Division of Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Economic Development. OTC manages the University's intellectual property including patenting marketing and negotiating licenses for the commercialization of University owned inventions. The Commercialization Fellow (CF) with direct supervision from the Director or his/her designee, helps researchers conceptualize and commercialize novel technologies in the computer, engineering, chemical, or biological science industries. The CF educates faculty and manages the process of disclosing, protecting (patent, copyright, or tangible property), developing strategic marketing plans for, and licensing their inventions. Duties include evaluating technologies, managing patent prosecution, coordinating marketing plans, and drafting and negotiating a range of intellectual property-related contracts. The CF places special emphasis on building faculty relationships, making investment decisions, and developing commercialization strategies in coordination with a wide range of related offices and stakeholders.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

This position requires a PhD in science or engineering.

Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience

• Demonstrated strong interest in technology commercialization

• General understanding of intellectual property management, including both patents and copyright

• The ability to understand a wide range of science and technology within computer, engineering, chemical, or biological science industries

• Demonstrated ability to work independently and set work priorities with minimal supervision over regular work activities

• An ability to establish and manage many projects and relationships simultaneously across a broad range of innovations and markets.

• A strong team-oriented focus

• Ability to build rapport and trust with faculty and colleagues

• Excellent oral and written communication

• Strong project management skills, with an acute attention to detail and ability to organize and communicate complex information

Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience

• Experience working in a university technology transfer office is preferred

Special Physical/Mental Requirements Special Instructions

For information on UNC Postdoctoral Benefits and Services click here

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