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University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Senior Commercialization Manager

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States, 27517

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Department: IEED - Office Tech Commercial-201401

Career Area: Research Professionals

Posting Open Date: 01/07/2026

Application Deadline: 02/02/2026

Open Until Filled: No

Position Type: Permanent Staff (EHRA NF)

Working Title: Senior Commercialization Manager

Appointment Type: EHRA Non-Faculty

Position Number: 01004555

Vacancy ID: NF0009471

Full Time/Part Time: Full-Time Permanent

FTE: 1

Hours per week: 40

Position Location: North Carolina, US

Proposed Start Date: 02/16/2026

Be a Tar Heel!: A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation’s top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn. One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community. University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit: The Office of Technology Commercialization (OTC) is located within the Vice Chancellor’s Office for Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Economic Development. OTC manages the University’s intellectual property including patenting, marketing and negotiating licenses for the commercialization of University owned inventions. KickStart Ventures is a division within OTC that supports faculty founded startups.

Position Summary: This position is located in the Office of Technology Commercialization (OTC) which is located in the Division of Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Economic Development. OTC manages the University’s intellectual property including patenting marketing and negotiating licenses for the commercialization of University owned inventions. The Senior Commercialization Manager (SCM) helps researchers conceptualize and commercialize novel technologies in the computer, engineering, chemical, or biological science industries with minimal or no supervision. The SCM educates faculty and manages the process of disclosing, protecting (patent, copyright, or tangible property), developing strategic marketing plans for, and licensing their inventions. Duties include evaluating technologies, managing patent prosecution, coordinating marketing plans, drafting and negotiating a range of intellectual property-related contracts, and managing complex situations and relationships. The SCM places special emphasis on building faculty relationships, making investment decisions, and developing commercialization strategies in coordination with a wide range of related offices and stakeholders.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements: Relevant post-Baccalaureate degree required (or foreign degree equivalent); for candidates demonstrating comparable independent research productivity or professional-level background in technology transfer, will accept a relevant Bachelor’s degree (or foreign degree equivalent) and 3 or more years of relevant experience in substitution. Technology transfer experience would be related to managing the flow of research innovation, disclosures, patents, trademarks, copyrights and other aspects of technology commercialization.

Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience:

Experience working in university commercialization evaluating invention disclosures, marketing technologies and negotiating license agreements

A clear understanding of intellectual property management, including both patents and copyright

The ability to understand a wide range of science and technology within the computer, engineering, chemical, or biological science industries

Demonstrated ability to work independently and set work priorities with no supervision over regular work activities

Demonstrated ability to establish and manage many complex projects and complex relationships simultaneously across a broad range of innovations and markets

Demonstrated ability to interact with both academic scientists and business executives

Demonstrated familiarity with intellectual property licensing and technology commercialization in industry or academic setting

A strong team-oriented focus

Demonstrated ability to build rapport and trust with faculty and colleagues

Excellent oral and written communication

Strong project management skills, with an acute attention to detail and ability to organize and communicate complex information

Extensive experience negotiating and drafting license agreements

Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience:

Three or more years of experience working in university commercialization evaluating invention disclosures, marketing technologies and negotiating license agreements.

Experience drafting and negotiating license agreements is preferred but not required.

Campus Security Authority Responsibilities: Not Applicable.

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