Commercialization Specialist I/II

Position Title:

Commercialization Specialist I/II

Job Group:

Professional & Scientific

Required Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree

Preferred Qualifications:

Advanced degree in a science-related field such as veterinary medicine, immunology, or animal science.

Demonstrated experience working in an industry setting, particularly in roles involving product development, R&D, or technology evaluation.

Experience in the commercialization of emerging technologies, including evaluating invention disclosures, drafting technology assessments, and developing marketing strategies.

Proven track record in negotiating contracts, licensing agreements, or collaborative R&D agreements with industry partners.

Experience translating and marketing complex scientific or technical information to various audiences, including investors, business leaders, and researchers.

Familiarity with intellectual property protection processes, particularly as they relate to life sciences or agricultural technologies.

Job Description:

The Office of Innovation Commercialization (OIC) at Iowa State University is accepting applications for a position of Commercialization Specialist who will report to the Assistant Director of Business Development. The successful candidate will manage an intellectual property (IP) portfolio; solicit technology invention disclosures and evaluate them for commercial and protection potential; develop plans to protect the IP; cultivate relationships with companies (including startups) most likely to commercialize the ISU technologies; develop and implement effective strategies to market the technologies; and negotiate license agreements.

The Commercialization Specialist will assist other staff and ISU administration in understanding the technologies, IP protection and commercialization strategies; in monitoring licensee compliance and performance; and in promoting participation in the ISU entrepreneurial ecosystem, including I-Corps and the ISU Startup Factory.  This position may be tasked with overseeing junior personnel.

The successful candidate will possess the ability to pay close attention to detail, while managing multiple projects and deadlines. The candidate will also need to demonstrate excellent oral and written communications skills, along with the creativity necessary to implement innovative solutions to commercialize technologies.

This is a rewarding role for someone who enjoys being at the forefront of scientific discovery and innovation. You’ll work directly with researchers on cutting-edge technologies and breakthrough science—without the pressure of grant writing or teaching responsibilities. The office is self-funded with stable financial support, offering long-term sustainability and freedom to focus on impactful work. You'll be part of a supportive, collaborative team committed to professional development, including a multi-year plan for on-the-job training to build expertise in technology transfer.

This candidate may be hired at a level I or II, depending on experience:

Level I: Requires a Bachelor's degree (PS809)

Level II: Requires a Bachelor's degree and 3 yrs of related experience (PS810)

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

Level Guidelines
• Individual contributor position with developing professional and/or technical skills working under immediate to general supervision
• Grasps professional-level knowledge and concepts of field while working in a progressive learning mode
• Works on problems and issues of somewhat limited scope
• Follows standard practices and procedures in analyzing situations or data for which answers are available or can be obtained
• Responds to inquiries and issues, escalating to manager or higher level workers as appropriate
• May lead projects of limited scope and complexity
• May provide guidance to students

Appointment Type:

Regular

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

12 Month Work Period

Time Type:

Full time

Pay Grade:

PS809

Application Instructions:

To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:

1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.