Commercialisation Manager (Biological Sciences)

This role will be based on the university campus, with scope for it to be undertaken in a hybrid manner. We are also open to discussing flexible working arrangements.

Are you interested in science and understanding complex technologies and looking to develop your career? Do you want to play a role in the development and commercialisation of Intellectual Property (IP) from the University?

These posts provide an exciting opportunity to play a role in the development of commercial opportunities that stem from IP generated within the University of Leeds, one of the largest research-intensive universities in the UK. The University has c.40 active spinout companies, 6 of which are listed on the investment markets, in addition to a significant portfolio of technology licenses.

To accelerate the development and commercialisation of its leading research, the University’s Commercialisation Team also manages sizeable proof of market and proof of concept investment funds. The Opportunity Development function within the Commercialisation Team has responsibility for building the portfolio of early-stage IP opportunities emerging from the university’s research base. The team leads the identification, commercial assessment, development and management of these early-stage IP based opportunities, supporting their commercial development, and co-ordinating submission of funding applications.

This involves actively supporting IP protection processes and alignment of research outputs with commercial development roadmaps, informing decision making by undertaking thorough assessment. The post holder will be key part of Opportunity Development with responsibilities for new commercialisation opportunities arising in the field of biological sciences.

You will be expected to further develop skills and knowledge in IP management and commercialisation. You will report to the Head of Opportunity Development. This is a challenging role requiring a proactive and self-motivated individual.

You will have a background in biological science and have experience of commercial development or innovation processes in either a commercial or institutional environment. You will have strong evaluation, planning and project management skills with good IP knowledge and experience of implementing the innovation process in a research-intensive environment.

You will be comfortable with creating and leading initiatives (including workshops, seminars and talks) to engage and support the academic community. The ability to effectively engage with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders is essential to this role. You will be expected to be physically based at the University at least 2-3 days a week.

Please note that this post may be suitable for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route but first-time applicants might need to qualify for salary concessions.

What we offer in return:

• 26 days holiday plus approx. 16 Bank Holidays/days that the University is closed by custom (including Christmas) – That’s 42 days a year!
• Health and Wellbeing: Discounted staff membership options at The Edge, our state-of-the-art Campus gym, with a pool, sauna, climbing wall, cycle circuit, and sports halls.
• Personal Development: Access to courses run by our Organisational Development & Professional Learning team. Access to on-site childcare, shopping discounts and travel schemes are also available.
• And much more!

To explore the post further or for any queries you may have, please contact: Blake Prime, Head of Opportunity Development.