Job Description

Application Procedures

Interested applicants must apply through the Stanton Chase email dc_olemiss_otc@stantonchase.com . Applications submitted through our careers page at this stage will not be considered.

For questions, please contact:

dc_olemiss_otc@stantonchase.com

Note for Current UM Employees

Current employees must apply internally via ConnectU >   connectu.olemiss.edu

The University of Mississippi

"The University of Mississippi — fondly referred to as Ole Miss — stands as a premier public research institution with a proud legacy of academic distinction. We are devoted to nurturing a vibrant, inclusive community where every member — student, faculty, and staff — can achieve their fullest potential.”

Department Summary

The University of Mississippi Office for Research and Economic Development fosters a vibrant environment of scholarly activity, innovation, and collaboration. We empower faculty, students, and partners to advance knowledge, address societal challenges, and drive economic growth through groundbreaking research, interdisciplinary engagement, and transformational discoveries. 

Role Specifications

Below you will find classification and compensation information. For additional details behind the University of Mississippi classification system please visit Human Resource Compensation Page

Family - Legal and Compliance

Sub-Family - Technology Transfer

Career Track / Level - M4

Grade - 16

Role Summary

The Director of the Office for Technology Commercialization will lead the strategic development and execution of technology commercialization initiatives under the auspices of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Economic Development for the University of Mississippi. This role is responsible for fostering innovation, protecting intellectual property, and facilitating the transition of research and technologies into commercial applications. The Director will collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to maximize the economic and societal impact of the University’s intellectual assets.

Examples of Work Performed

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement a comprehensive technology transfer and commercialization strategy aligned with the Office for Research and Economic Development and the University of Mississippi’s goals.
• Intellectual Property Management: Oversee the identification, evaluation, protection, and management of intellectual property (IP), including patents, copyrights, and trademarks.
• Commercialization: Identify market opportunities, develop licensing agreements, and negotiate partnerships with industry, startups, and other entities to commercialize technologies.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Build and maintain relationships with researchers, faculty, industry partners, investors, and government agencies to support technology transfer objectives.
• Program Development: Establish policies, procedures, and programs to streamline technology transfer processes and enhance commercialization outcomes.
• Funding and Investment: Secure funding through grants, partnerships, or venture capital to support technology development and startup initiatives.
• Team Management: Lead, mentor, and develop a team of technology transfer professionals, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration.
• Compliance and Reporting: Ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations related to IP and technology transfer, and provide regular reports to senior leadership.
• Outreach and Education: Promote awareness of technology transfer and commercialization opportunities through workshops, seminars, and outreach activities to those internal and external to the University of Mississippi. 

Essential Functions

These essential functions include, but are not limited to, the following. Additional essential functions may be identified and included by the hiring department.

1. Directs the identification, protection, marketing, and commercialization of intellectual property rights arising from research activities within the University.
2. Develops, reviews, and approves technology transfer policies in alignment with institutional goals.
3. Develops strategic goals and ensures progress by monitoring and approving metrics reported to internal and external stakeholders.

Minimum Education/Experience

Education:  Bachelor's Degree

Experience: (10) Ten years Experience, 6 years of supervisory experience

Preferred Qualifications

Education: Advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in business, law, science, engineering, or a related field. An MBA or JD is a plus. 

Experience: Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in technology transfer, commercialization, or a related field, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.

Preferred Skills: 

• Proven track record in IP management, licensing, and negotiating complex agreements.
• Strong understanding of market analysis, business development, and startup ecosystems.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Knowledge of federal regulations (e.g., Bayh-Dole Act) and industry standards.
• Lead a team of diverse specialties to accomplish the goals and objects of the office.

Attributes: Strategic thinker, innovative, results-oriented, and adept at building partnerships.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a university, research institution, or government agency setting.
• Established network within industry, venture capital, or entrepreneurial communities.
• Familiarity with emerging technologies and their commercial applications. 

EEO Statement

The University of Mississippi provides equal opportunity in any employment practice, education program, or education activity to all qualified persons. The University complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin, ethnicity, citizenship, age, disability, military status, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.

Minimum Physical Requirements

Physical Requirements: These physical requirements are not exhaustive, and additional job-related physical requirements may be added to these by individual agencies on an as needed basis. 

Corrective devices may be used to meet physical requirements.

Physical Exertion: The incumbent may be required to lift up to approximately 10 pounds.

Vision: Requirements of this job include close vision. Speaking/Hearing: Ability to give and receive information through speaking and listening.

Motor Coordination: While performing the duties of this job, the incumbent is frequently required to talk and hear; and use hands to finger, handle, or feel. The incumbent is periodically required to sit. The incumbent is occasionally required to stand; walk; and reach with hands and arms

Interview Requirements: Any candidate who is called for an interview must notify the Department of Equal Opportunity/Regulatory Compliance in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.

Background Check Statement

The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.

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