At a Glance
- Tasks: Help commercialise groundbreaking research and support innovative ideas from world-leading academics.
- Company: Join Cambridge Enterprise, a leader in technology transfer and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days holiday, private medical insurance, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive culture with excellent personal development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real-world impact by bridging the gap between academia and industry.
- Qualifications: Ph.D. or research experience in Physical Sciences or engineering; strong analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 36000 £ per year.
West Cambridge | From £36,000 | Full-time, fixed term (10 months) | Hybrid (3 days in office)
Do you want to play a role in commercialising the ground-breaking ideas of world-leading academics?
Why you will love this role:
Some of the most exciting research at the University of Cambridge never reaches industry without the right support. This role helps bridge that gap. You'll work alongside experienced technology commercialisation professionals to assess new inventions, support intellectual property management, explore market opportunities and help researchers develop ideas that can attract investment, partnerships and commercial interest. The role offers exposure to the full commercialisation journey. You'll work across a varied portfolio of technologies, collaborating with academics, patent attorneys, commercial partners and colleagues across Cambridge Enterprise. It's a great opportunity to develop expertise in technology transfer and venture creation while building a broad understanding of innovation, intellectual property and commercialisation strategy. Your work will help ensure innovations have the best possible chance of achieving real-world impact.
What we're looking for:
- A Ph.D. in a scientific or technical discipline relevant to the Physical Sciences or engineering sector and/or research experience
- A genuine interest in technology commercialisation, intellectual property or innovation
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex information and draw practical conclusions
- Excellent organisation and time management skills
- Confidence managing multiple priorities and deadlines
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- The ability to build positive relationships with a wide range of stakeholders
- A proactive approach and willingness to take ownership of tasks
- Good attention to detail and record-keeping skills
- Strong Microsoft 365 skills and confidence learning new systems
Nice to have:
- Experience in a commercial, business development, marketing or technical sales environment
- Knowledge of patents, licensing or other aspects of technology transfer
- Experience reviewing or supporting commercial agreements
Diversity and equality matter: These are our ideal requirements, but we know some people are less likely to apply for the role unless they check every single box. At Cambridge Enterprise, we promote a diverse, inclusive and empowering culture, so if you feel you have most of the skills and experience needed, we’d love to hear from you.
If you have any questions about the interview process, or if you need any reasonable adjustments, please don’t hesitate to contact Sofia or the People and Culture team at people@enterprise.cam.ac.uk
Why Cambridge Enterprise?
We are at the heart of Europe's most successful research and technology cluster and we're on a mission to bring innovation to life, making a difference to society, the UK economy, and the University of Cambridge. We connect the innovative minds of the University’s academics with the funding, start-up expertise and commercial relationships they need to help their ideas thrive. Our success stories include an electric vehicle charging technology that's as convenient as filling up with petrol, a programme to prevent ideological extremism, and the world's first treatment for a rare cause of blindness. Now, we need a Commercialisation Associate to join our team at our vibrant West Cambridge site.
Perks at a glance:
- 30 days holiday (plus bank holidays)
- Class-leading Bupa private medical insurance
- Hybrid role with genuine flexible working – including work from abroad for up to 30 days a year in most roles
- Generous University pension scheme.
- A commitment to personal development including LinkedIn learning.
- Family-friendly policies (including enhanced parental leave & childcare benefits, fertility leave, and pregnancy loss leave)
- Mental health and well-being support including access to free counselling.
- Access to Bupa’s Menopause Plan for expert advice and support.
- Retail and travel discounts.
Key dates:
- Closing date: 27 September
- Screening calls: 29 September
- First interviews: 5 October [TEAMS]
- Second interviews: 12 October [in-person]
Commercialisation Associate (Physical Sciences and Engineering) in Cambridge employer: Cambridge Enterprise
At Cambridge Enterprise, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, situated in the vibrant West Cambridge area, where innovation meets opportunity. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through our extensive personal development programmes, including access to LinkedIn Learning, and our supportive work culture fosters collaboration and inclusivity. With generous benefits such as 30 days of holiday, flexible working arrangements, and comprehensive health support, we empower our team to thrive while making a meaningful impact on society and the economy.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercialisation Associate (Physical Sciences and Engineering) in Cambridge
✨Get Involved in Tech Transfer Events
Tech transfer is all about networking, so make sure you're attending industry conferences and seminars related to technology commercialization. Events like the AUTM Annual Meeting or local innovation workshops are clutch for meeting key players and learning what's trending—plus, you might just bump into someone from Cambridge Enterprise!
✨Showcase Your Projects
Having a solid portfolio can really make you stand out. Highlight any projects where you successfully brought a technology to market or improved a process. Sharing case studies or insights on platforms like LinkedIn can catch the eye of recruiters at Cambridge Enterprise, showing them you’ve got the chops for the job.
✨Leverage University Connections
Many universities have strong tech transfer offices—connect with them! They often have ties to industry and can help you get your foot in the door. Plus, you might find openings or internship opportunities that lead to this full-time role at places like Cambridge Enterprise.
✨Engage with Online Communities
Join forums or online communities focused on tech transfer and commercialization. Platforms like ResearchGate or industry-specific Slack channels are great for connecting with professionals, discussing trends, and possibly learning about job openings before they hit the mainstream. Remember, your next opportunity could be just a message away!
We think you need these skills to ace Commercialisation Associate (Physical Sciences and Engineering) in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Tech Transfer Know-How:In the tech transfer and commercialization world, it's crucial to highlight your understanding of intellectual property, patents, and market analysis. Make sure your CV includes relevant projects or experiences where you successfully navigated these areas. Any certifications in commercialisation would also give you a serious edge!
Tailor Your Documents for the Role:Your cover letter should reflect not just your enthusiasm for the position at Cambridge Enterprise, but also your knowledge of current trends in technology-transfer. Discuss specific cases where you've contributed to commercialising innovations or enhancing research outcomes—this will show you’re ready to tackle challenges head-on!
Quantify Your Achievements:In this field, numbers count! Whether it's successful licensing deals, funding acquired for projects, or percentage increases in collaboration outcomes, include these metrics in your CV. They not only make your accomplishments more tangible but also demonstrate your impact in previous roles.
Demonstrate Your Business Acumen:Understanding the business side is just as crucial as the tech side! When writing your application, weave in examples that illustrate your strategic thinking and your role in negotiations or partnerships. This balance of skills is what will set you apart for a full-time role at Cambridge Enterprise.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cambridge Enterprise
✨Demonstrate Your Tech Knowledge
Brush up on key technologies and trends in technology transfer and commercialization. Be ready to showcase your understanding of licensing agreements and the innovation lifecycle, as well as any specific tools or software used in the field.
✨Show Your Business Acumen
This role isn't just about tech; it's also about understanding the market. Be prepared to discuss how you would approach bringing a technology to market, including strategies for assessing commercial viability and potential partnerships.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect case studies or hypothetical scenarios during the interview. Think about how you'd approach real-world challenges in technology transfer, like negotiating a deal or handling stakeholder concerns—this can help us get a sense of your critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Skills
In a full-time role, collaboration is key. Be ready to share examples of how you've worked with cross-functional teams in the past, particularly in scenarios that involved tech developers and business strategists coming together.
