Director, AI Venture Development & Partnerships

University of Chicago; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Chicago seeks a Director of Venture Development, AI, reporting to the Assistant Vice President for Technology Ventures. You will advance commercialization of AI and data science ventures, evaluate research innovations, and guide strategies to engage investors and secure partnerships.

You will liaison with campus partners and Polsky Center colleagues, coordinating licensing, IP, marketing, and accelerators to drive venture growth and capital attraction.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of work experience in a related job discipline.
• 10+ years of experience in technology commercialization, venture creation, or investments.

Responsibilities

• Drives venture development priorities and builds relationships with venture capital and investor ecosystem.
• Identify and assess commercial potential of research projects and invention disclosures in collaboration with IP and business development leadership.
• Provide ongoing coaching to faculty on venture needs and next steps.
• Conduct due diligence to chart commercialization strategies with internal and external stakeholders.
• Prepare faculty and startups for investment diligence and engage with investors, including developing business plans and pitch decks.
• Develop programs to support entrepreneurial talent and early-stage management for AI and data science ventures.
• Build and maintain a robust network of venture capitalists, corporate investors, and industry leaders to support funding and partnerships.
• Create presentation materials and pitches for partners and inform strategic opportunities in AI and data science.
• Track trends in venture capital and university research focus to inform strategic opportunities for faculty ventures.

Skills

Leadership capabilities

Verbal and written communication

Strategic collaboration

Education

Advanced degree in computer science or engineering

Bachelor's degree or higher in related field

Job description

The University of Chicago seeks a Director of Venture Development, AI, reporting to the Assistant Vice President for Technology Ventures. You will advance commercialization of AI and data science ventures, evaluate research innovations, and guide strategies to engage investors and secure partnerships.

You will liaison with campus partners and Polsky Center colleagues, coordinating licensing, IP, marketing, and accelerators to drive venture growth and capital attraction.