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University of Oklahoma

Associate Director of Technology Commercialization

University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States, 73116

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Associate Director of Technology Commercialization (260016) Job Number 260016

Schedule Full-time Work Schedule: Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm Work Type: Onsite Salary Range: Commensurate with education and experience.

Benefits Provided: Yes

Required Attachments: Resume, Cover Letter

Job Description The Associate Director of Technology Commercialization is responsible for overseeing and enhancing the university's technology transfer, patent management, and licensing activities. This role combines operational leadership with strategic growth initiatives to expand commercialization opportunities, strengthen industry partnerships, and support faculty engagement.

Duties

Serve as a primary point of contact for university researchers, improving response times and facilitating smoother communication between inventors, legal counsel, and industry representatives

Assist the Director in managing daily operations of the Office of Technology Commercialization (OTC), including supervising staff and ensuring consistent, efficient work flow across technology evaluation, patent management, and licensing activities

Translate complex scientific and technical data into clear, market-relevant language by collaborating with scientists and engineers to identify potential product applications and viable commercialization pathways

Oversee project pipelines to ensure timely execution of agreements and effective coordination among team members

Lead initiatives that expand commercialization opportunities, strengthen relationships with external partners, and enhance the university's reputation for innovation and entrepreneurship

Identify emerging markets and technologies for potential licensing and partnership development

Collaborate with senior leadership to implement strategic goals that align with institutional priorities

Promote awareness of the Office of Technology Commercialization (OTC) services and intellectual property processes among faculty and research staff

Support the Director in ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations

Maintain accurate internal and external reporting on licensing activity, invention disclosures, patents, and revenue

Work closely with legal and compliance teams to uphold intellectual property standards and best practices

Provide leadership stability and operational continuity within the Office of Technology Commercialization (OTC) during periods of transition or expansion

Mentor junior staff and contribute to developing a high-performing, collaborative team environment

Negotiate, execute, and manage licensing agreements, renewals, and amendments in coordination with university policies

Maintain strong relationships with licensees, ensuring compliance with contract terms and monitoring financial performance

Collaborate with finance, legal, and research offices to support royalty tracking, reporting, and audit processes

Monitor industry trends and identify new areas for commercialization and partnership development

Evaluate and analyze new invention disclosures by conducting initial reviews, meeting with key stakeholders, identifying and engaging industry reviewers, and distributing relevant materials; this includes collecting feedback, assessing findings, and providing necessary notifications and recommendations

Perform other duties as assigned

Job Requirements Required Education and Experience:

Masters degree in a relevant field (e.g., Biology, Neuroscience, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Engineering, or a related discipline),

AND:

5 year of related experience with at least 3 years within an academic environment

Equivalency/Substitution:

Experience or a combination of education and related experience can be considered in lieu of a degree. A one-to-one ratio is used to determine the number of years of experience required in place of a degree.

Skills:

Strong leadership and staff management skills

Understanding of federal and state regulations affecting intellectual property, research, and commercialization activities

Proven ability to develop and maintain partnerships with internal and external stakeholders

Demonstrated knowledge of scientific principles, technology transfer processes, and market dynamics to effectively bridge the gap between research innovation and commercial opportunity

Excellent communication, negotiation, and organizational skills

Project management and organizational skills to manage multiple initiatives and meet deadlines

Strategic thinker with a commitment to advancing innovation and economic development

Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information related to intellectual property, licensing agreements, and research projects

In-depth understanding of intellectual property law, patent processes, licensing, and technology commercialization

Ability to adapt to changing priorities and emerging opportunities in a fast-paced environment

Ability to translate complex scientific and technical information into clear, market-relevant insights by leveraging strong collaboration skills with scientists and engineers to identify product applications and commercialization pathways

Certifications:

None

Working Conditions:

Physical:

Occasional travel is required to attend conferences, trade shows, meetings, and industry events

Position involves standing or sitting for extended periods during meetings, presentations, or computer work

Environmental:

Standard office environment

Frequent use of computers, phones, and other standard office equipment

Why You Belong at the University of Oklahoma:

The University of Oklahoma values our community's unique talents, perspectives, and experiences. At OU, we aspire to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere. You Belong Here!

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

The University, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, gender identity/expression (consistent with applicable law), age (40 or older), religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes but is not limited to admissions, employment, housing, financial aid, and educational services.

Hiring contingent upon a Background Check? : Yes

Special Indications : Hiring contingent upon police records check

Job Posting Jan 6, 2026

Job Posting Help Required Attachments: Documents required for this position are listed under the "Required Attachments" section of this job listing. You will be required to upload and attach these documents in the application process. All required documents must be attached to your job application or your documents will not be visible to the hiring department!

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