Description

ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI

For 175 years, Ole Miss has served our state with distinction while, at the same time, building a rich and complicated history.  Our academic divisions provide a first-class academic experience. As an R1 university, we will invest in groundbreaking research that opens up opportunities. 

Our Vision:

The University of Mississippi is a preeminent public research university and a leading force for innovation, creative expression, and opportunity.

Our Mission:

The mission of the University of Mississippi is to create, evaluate, share, and apply knowledge in a free, open, and inclusive environment of intellectual inquiry. Building upon a distinguished foundation in the liberal arts, the state’s first comprehensive university serves the people of Mississippi and the world through breadth of academic, research, professional and service programs. The University of Mississippi provides an academic experience that emphasizes critical thinking; promotes research and creative achievement to advance society; uses its expertise to engage and transform communities; challenges and inspires a diverse community of undergraduate, graduate, and professional students; offers enriching opportunities outside the classroom; supports lifelong learning; and develops a sense of global responsibility.

THE OPPORTUNITY

The Director of Technology Commercialization will lead the strategic development and execution of technology transfer and 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.

Requirements

RESPONSIBILITIES

• 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.
• 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.

IDEAL EXPERIENCE

QUALIFICATIONS

• Education: Advanced degree (Master’s or PhD) 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.
• Attributes: Strategic thinker, innovative, results-oriented, and adept at building partnerships.
• Skills:
  • Proven track record in IP management, licensing, and negotiating complex arrangements.
  • 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 objectives of the office.

KEY CRITERIA

• Demonstrated experience overseeing complex research commercialization and technology transfer initiatives within a higher education or research-intensive environment.
• Deep understanding or regulatory frameworks and compliance requirements related to intellectual property, sponsored research, and the management of federal and state research funding.
• Proven ability to develop and operationalize a clear vision for technology transfer in alignment with institutional research goals and stakeholder needs.
• Track record of building high-performing teams and fostering a culture of accountability, service excellence, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Leads with integrity, humility, and entrepreneurial energy, while cultivating strong relationships across faculty, researchers, administrators, and external partners.

CONTACT

Stanton Chase, an executive search and leadership advisory firm, has been retained by the University of Mississippi for the Director of Technology Commercialization search. For additional information, referrals and inquiries, please email [email protected].