Technology Licensing Officer, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Cambridge, MA, United States

Join the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), consistently ranked as the top private research university globally since 2012 according to the QS Universities World Universities Rankings. Located in the heart of Cambridge, within a vibrant intellectual atmosphere and a flourishing innovation ecosystem, MIT offers an unparalleled environment for professional growth and development. As a Technology Licensing Officer within the Technology Licensing Office (TLO) at MIT, you will play a pivotal role in commercializing groundbreaking technologies and contribute to the university’s legacy of academic excellence since 1861.

Position Overview:

As a Technology Licensing Officer, you will have a unique opportunity to work with cutting-edge technologies and collaborate with world-class faculty, industry leaders, and legal experts to bring MIT’s inventions to the global marketplace. Your role will encompass a diverse range of responsibilities, allowing you to leverage your expertise in electrical engineering and/or optics while making a significant impact on the commercialization of intellectual property (IP). Key responsibilities include:

Empower Innovation: Evaluate technology disclosures, develop patent strategies, manage patent prosecution, and identify potential licensees, enabling the translation of MIT’s innovative ideas into real-world applications.

Forge Collaborative Partnerships: Cultivate strong relationships with faculty inventors, corporate representatives, patent attorneys, and members of the MIT and Boston innovation community, fostering a dynamic ecosystem of collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Provide Expert Guidance: Offer advice on technology commercialization processes, IP policy, and practice to faculty, students, and the broader MIT and Boston innovation community, ensuring the seamless dissemination of knowledge and IP assets.

Strategic Portfolio Management: Manage a diverse portfolio of cases, strategize marketing approaches for commercialization, and develop compelling collateral to maximize the impact and reach of MIT’s inventions.

IP Governance: Conduct diligence on IP ownership and sponsorship, collaborate with joint owners to execute IP management agreements, and monitor compliance with license agreement terms.

Drive Startup Ecosystem: Facilitate the creation and growth of startups by engaging with the local innovation ecosystem, supporting entrepreneurial endeavors, and fostering connections between MIT inventions and established or spinout companies.

Industry Engagement: Build and nurture relationships with industry leaders and venture capitalists, promoting the adoption and market growth of MIT inventions and contributing to the growth of technology-driven industries.

Leadership and Mentorship: Provide supervision, mentorship, and guidance to a talented team of Technology Licensing Associates and administrative staff, fostering their professional development and empowering them to excel in their roles.

Qualifications:

U.S. citizenship is required for this position, with a willingness to obtain additional government security clearance.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively engage with various stakeholders, including faculty, students, legal professionals, and industry representatives.

Strong organizational skills, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring the efficient execution of licensing activities.

Exceptional problem-solving skills to address complex business, legal, and inter-organizational challenges, contributing to strategic decision-making processes.

Strong interpersonal skills, reflecting courtesy, diplomacy, and a collaborative approach to building and maintaining effective relationships across diverse stakeholders.

Education: Minimum of a B.S. in Engineering, with preference given to candidates with a B.S. in Electrical Engineering or Optical Engineering. An advanced technical degree or MBA is preferred, although not required.

Experience:

Seven or more years of direct experience in the physical sciences, specifically within Electrical Engineering or Optics, with at least five years in a non-laboratory/engineering role involving activities such as marketing, technology licensing, product management, business development, and contract negotiation.

Prior experience in academic technology transfer is strongly preferred.

For Electrical Engineering: Experience in engineering/marketing within the electronics industry, with a deep understanding of technology and markets.

For Optics: Expertise in fields such as lasers, optical components, or communications, encompassing knowledge of components, communications systems, and the electronics industry.

In addition to a competitive salary, MIT offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a pension plan and supplemental retirement options. This hybrid role provides flexibility while requiring a minimum in-office presence on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, allowing for a balanced work-life integration.

Join MIT’s Technology Licensing Office and be part of a prestigious institution at the forefront of global innovation. Shape the future of technology commercialization while collaborating with brilliant minds and driving societal impact. Apply now and embark on a fulfilling journey at MIT.

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