At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the creation of impactful ventures from innovative University research.
- Company: Join Edinburgh Innovations, a collaborative and progressive tech hub.
- Benefits: Enjoy 40 days off, competitive salary, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team that values creativity and teamwork.
- Why this job: Shape the future with cutting-edge ideas in AI, health, and more.
- Qualifications: Experience in startups or venture creation, with strong commercial insight.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Join Edinburgh Innovations to help turn exceptional University of Edinburgh research into new ventures with real-world impact. This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys ownership, pace and variety — working directly with academic founders to shape opportunities, test commercial potential and help build companies rooted in know-how, software and AI. You will work across a broad and stimulating mix of ideas, from AI/ML and scientific SaaS to digital health, edtech and social enterprise, supporting ventures from early validation through to company formation. It is a role with genuine breadth, autonomy and visibility, offering the chance to work alongside outstanding researchers and help create companies with strong potential for societal and commercial impact.
The experience and qualities we are looking for:
- A builder at heart: perhaps a former founder, startup operator, venture builder or venture creation professional who enjoys turning ideas into action.
- Commercially minded, with strong judgement on what makes an opportunity viable, investable and worth pursuing.
- Comfortable working with academics and technical founders, with the ability to challenge constructively, build trust and support others to succeed.
- Confident across customer discovery, market validation, business models and the early steps of company formation.
- Energised by working across a wide range of sectors and technologies, rather than specialising narrowly in one domain.
- Practical, adaptable and delivery-focused, with the resilience to work well in a lean, fast-moving environment where initiative and follow-through matter.
About Us
At Edinburgh Innovations (EI), our culture is built on three core values: Collaborative, Progressive and Innovative. We believe the best results come from working together, sharing ideas, and supporting one another. We’re always looking forward, embracing change, challenging assumptions, and pushing boundaries to grow. Innovation is at the heart of what we do, encouraging creativity and fresh thinking at every level of the business. If you thrive in a team-driven environment that values bold ideas and continuous improvement, you’ll fit right in.
Championing Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
We’re committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. At EI we celebrate diversity in all its forms and actively seek to create a team that reflects the communities around us. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities because different perspectives make us stronger.
As a valued member of our team, you can look forward to:
- A competitive salary that reflects your skills and experience.
- An exciting, positive, and creative workplace that’s as rewarding as it is challenging.
- A generous 40 days of combined annual leave and public holiday entitlement.
- A comprehensive benefits package, including a defined contribution pension scheme (currently 3.5/4.5% employee and 9/14.5% employer contributions), family-friendly policies, flexible working options, and more.
- Ongoing support to develop your skills, grow your career, and recognise your achievements.
About You
At EI, we look for people who live our core behaviours in everything they do. You work well with others, build strong relationships, and believe that teamwork drives better outcomes. You're curious, creative, and not afraid to challenge the norm to find smarter solutions. You take responsibility for your work, follow through on commitments, and are driven to deliver results. You seek feedback, grow from experiences, and are always looking to improve. You genuinely care about the impact of your work on colleagues, customers, and the wider community. If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.
Application Information
Please submit your CV along with a covering letter that tells us why you’re interested in the role and how your skills and experience make you a strong fit.
Right to Work
All applicants must have the right to work in the UK at the time of application. Unfortunately, we are not able to offer sponsorship for this role. You will be required to provide documentation as part of the recruitment process to confirm your eligibility to work in the UK.
Key dates to note
The closing date for applications is 21 August 2026. Unless stated otherwise the closing time for applications is 11:59pm GMT. If you are applying outside the UK the closing time on our adverts automatically adjusts to your browser's local time zone. Interviews will be held early-mid September.
Venture Creation Lead in Edinburgh employer: University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises equality, diversity, and inclusion. With over 400 years of history, it provides unparalleled opportunities for professional growth and development within a supportive community of more than 17,000 staff and 50,000 students. As a leading research-intensive university, it empowers its employees to drive organisational transformation and innovate in a dynamic environment, making it a truly rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Venture Creation Lead in Edinburgh
✨Get Involved in Startup Events
Dive into the local startup scene! Attend pitch nights, hackathons, and networking events. It's a great way to meet founders and like-minded folks. Plus, you never know who might put in a good word for you at a startup like University of Edinburgh!
✨Show Off Your Creativity
Startups love unique ideas! Create a portfolio or a personal website showcasing your past projects, especially those relevant to startups. This personal touch can really make you stand out when you're applying for that full-time gig at University of Edinburgh.
✨Leverage Startup Communities Online
Get active on platforms such as Indie Hackers, Startup Grind, or even LinkedIn groups focused on startups. Participating in discussions can increase your visibility and open up potential job leads, especially at buzzing companies like University of Edinburgh.
✨Direct Applications are Your Best Bet
Don't shy away from applying directly through our website. Startups often check their own portals first before other job sites. Tailor your application to show how you can add value to University of Edinburgh — a personal touch goes a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Venture Creation Lead in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Entrepreneurial Spirit:When applying for a role in startups and entrepreneurship, it's crucial to highlight any experience you have with starting your own projects or businesses. We love seeing examples of your initiative, so sprinkle in stories of how you’ve taken risks or solved problems creatively—this is what makes you stand out!
Tailor Your CV for Impact:In the startup world, your CV should reflect not just your experience, but the impact you've made. Use quantifiable achievements to show your contributions, like percentage increases in growth or revenue. Remember, we’re looking for go-getters who know how to get results!
Craft a Provocative Cover Letter:Your cover letter is a chance to showcase your passion and motivation for working at University of Edinburgh. Don't just list your skills—share your vision and what excites you about the entrepreneurial journey. Connect your personal aspirations with what we need, and let your enthusiasm shine through!
Keep Your Portfolio Handy:If you have a portfolio showcasing any past projects or entrepreneurial efforts, definitely mention it in your application. Though not always necessary for full-time roles, it can provide us with deeper insights into your work style and creativity. If you have a blog, products, or any innovation, we'd love to see it!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Edinburgh
✨Show Your Entrepreneurial Spirit
In startups, they love seeing passion and initiative. Be ready to share any personal projects or ideas you've worked on. This shows you’re not just about the 9-to-5, but you’re invested in creating value, which is key in this fast-paced environment.
✨Brush Up on Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect to be thrown some curveballs during the interview—startups often face unexpected challenges. Having a couple of examples up your sleeve where you’ve creatively solved problems will really impress them. It's all about how you think on your feet!
✨Know Your Stuff About the Industry
Since you're applying for a full-time role, they’ll want to see you've done your homework. Make sure you understand where the startup stands in its industry, including competitors and market trends. It’s a great way to show you're genuinely interested and can contribute from day one.
✨Show Flexibility and Adaptability
Startups can pivot quickly, so highlight your adaptability. Share examples of when you've successfully navigated change or taken on roles outside your comfort zone. This shows you’re ready for whatever comes your way, which is crucial in a startup atmosphere!
