What are the responsibilities and job description for the Commercialization Manager position at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Careers?
Posting Information
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
Commercialization Manager
Appointment Type
EHRA Non-Faculty
Position Number
01004348
Vacancy ID
NF0009470
Full Time/Part Time
Full-Time Permanent
FTE
1
Hours per week
40
Position Location
North Carolina, US
Hiring Range
Proposed Start Date
02/16/2026
Position Information
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 Commercialization Manager (CM) helps researchers conceptualize and commercialize novel technologies in the computer, software, data analysis, digital health, engineering, chemical, or biological science industries. The CM educates faculty and manages the process of disclosing, protecting (patent, copyright, software, or tangible property), developing strategic marketing plans for, and licensing their inventions. Duties include evaluating technologies, evaluating copyright and software, managing patent prosecution, coordinating marketing plans, and drafting and negotiating a range of intellectual property-related contracts. The CM 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 or equivalent experience
- 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 minimal supervision over regular work activities
- An ability to establish and manage many projects and relationships simultaneously across a broad range of innovations and markets
- The ability to interact with both academic scientists and business executives
- Demonstrate familiarity with intellectual property licensing and technology commercialization in industry or academic setting
- A strong team-oriented focus
- 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
Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
- One or more years of experience working in university commercialization evaluating invention disclosures, marketing technologies and negotiating license agreements or equivalent experience
- Experience drafting and negotiating license agreements is preferred but not required
Special Physical/Mental Requirements
Campus Security Authority Responsibilities
Not Applicable.