Intellectual Property Technology Specialist

Brown University; Providence (RI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Brown University seeks an Intellectual Property Technology Specialist to provide strategic guidance on patent portfolio management and licensing workflows. You will oversee filing, prosecution, maintenance, and defense strategies, interfacing with faculty inventors and outside counsel to align legal protection with commercialization goals.

The role requires a Bachelor’s degree with 3–5 years in IP portfolio support; a Master’s or PhD is preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field; 3–5 years supporting an IP portfolio.
• Experience in an academic or tech transfer setting is a plus.
• Familiarity with 35 U.S.C. provisions and licensing processes is beneficial.
• Strong written and verbal communication and collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee IP portfolio lifecycle: filing, prosecution, maintenance, and defense.
• Coordinate licensing strategies and royalty distribution with cross‑functional teams.
• Engage faculty inventors and outside counsel to align IP strategy with commercialization goals.

Skills

IP portfolio mgmt

Stakeholder communication

Analytical thinking

Project management

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Advanced degree (Master’s or PhD) preferred

Tools

Excel

Databases

Job description

About Brown

Brown University is a leading research university distinct for its student-centered learning and deep sense of purpose. Our students, faculty and staff are driven by the idea that their work will have an impact in the world. Brown University offers a flexible work/life balance; summer hours, winter break and a comprehensive Benefits package including time off, annual paid holidays; benefits offerings including health, dental, vision, tuition assistance, retirement, wellness, employee discounts and more. To learn about Brown University's benefits, visit the University Human Resources web page for further information.

About the Opportunity

Reporting to the Associate Director, Licensing Compliance and Royalty Distribution, this role serves as a strategic subject matter expert, providing critical guidance and technical insights to Business Development Directors regarding the university’s patent portfolio. Assisting in the management of a diverse portfolio of 500+ active patent families, the incumbent is responsible for the full lifecycle of intellectual property assets. The incumbent will leverage advanced technical expertise and a deep understanding of 35 U.S.C. 2011 Edition statutes to oversee the filing, prosecution, maintenance, and defense strategies required to support commercialization goals. This role acts as a vital bridge between faculty inventors and outside counsel, ensuring that patent strategies are not only legally sound but also commercially optimized. By conducting in-depth IP analysis and quality oversight, this position ensures that the university’s intellectual capital is robustly protected and positioned for successful licensing and institutional impact.

Responsibilities

• Portfolio Management & Strategic Planning
• Operations & Quality Control
• Stakeholder Engagement & Administration

Education and Experience Required

Bachelor’s degree required; an advanced degree (Master’s or PhD) in a scientific or technical field is preferred. 3-5 years of experience supporting an IP portfolio within an academic, tech transfer, corporate or related environment or an equivalent combination of education and related experience. Work experience within a technology licensing office at a major university is a plus. Registered Patent Agent status is a plus.

Job Competencies

Working knowledge of patent prosecution (35 U.S.C. 2011 Edition). Detailed understanding of the nuanced issues related to the protection and enforcement of IP within an academic or research institution. Superior verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to translate complex IP concepts for a variety of stakeholders. Proven ability to manage a large, complex workload, prioritize tasks, and juggle multiple projects in a fast-paced environment. Proficiency in Excel and computer databases to create ad hoc reports for data analyses. High degree of professionalism, diplomacy, and collaboration. Demonstrated maturity in navigating the needs of multiple stakeholders within a complex academic environment. Excellent analytical and decision-making skills, with the ability to exercise good judgment and discretion independently. Demonstrated ability to interact effectively and productively with faculty and senior officials from academia, industry and government.

Additional Information

As this is a hybrid position, the employee would be expected to be on campus a few days per week. All offers of employment are contingent upon a criminal background check and education verification satisfactory to Brown University. Benefits of Working at Brown: Please review additional information on the Benefits of Working at Brown. You can find detailed information about our salary ranges on our website.

Recruiting Information

Recruiting Start Date: 2026-07-23

Job Posting Title: Intellectual Property Technology Specialist

Department: Brown Technology Innovations

Grade: Grade 10

Worker Type: Employee

Worker Sub-Type: Regular Time Type: Full time Scheduled Weekly Hours: 37.5 Position Work Location: Hybrid

Submission Guidelines

The designated Position Work Location for each position determines the approved modality of work. Positions are classified based on the operational and business needs of the department and may be designated as on-site, hybrid, or remote. Employees with a designated position work location as remote must reside and perform their work in a state where Brown University is registered to do business. Brown University is a registered employer in the following states: Rhode Island, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Washington, D.C. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Brown is an E-Verify Employer.

EEO Statement

Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person's race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.

Welcome! Founded in 1764, Brown is a leading institution for education, discovery, and global intellectual progress as well as one of the largest employers in Rhode Island. Working at Brown brings more than just a paycheck and generous benefits; it offers an opportunity to contribute to a greater good. Join us in supporting the pursuit of knowledge and individual growth that defines higher education and enriches our community.