Senior Venture Architect - Life Sciences Translational

Northwestern University; Evanston (IL); On-site; USD 100,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Northwestern University is seeking a Senior Venture Associate to lead venture development and translational funding programs in Evanston. You will evaluate early-stage technologies, mentor founders, and support investor-ready materials, reporting to the Executive Director.

The role focuses on strategic leadership across the N.XT Gap Fund and related translational programs, with emphasis on commercialization strategy and venture selection.

Qualifications

• Graduate degree (PhD or MBA) and/or founder/work experience with deep-tech exposure encouraged.
• Minimum of 3 years' experience in intellectual property development or relevant industry experience or similar.
• Familiarity with research-based or deep tech domains (AI, data science, biotech, medtech, quantum, engineering)
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to synthesize technical information into strategic insights
• Excellent communication and a collaborative, founder-friendly approach
• Curiosity and enthusiasm for helping scientific teams navigate early commercialization challenges

Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and execute a vision and roadmap for life sciences accelerators.
• Operational Leadership: Manage multi programs and postdoc teams; establish KPIs and reporting mechanisms.
• Due Diligence and Venture Support: Lead evaluation and selection of ventures for accelerator participation and funding.
• Continuous Improvement: Foster a culture of innovation and agility.

Skills

Analytical skills

Excellent communication

Curiosity

Education

PhD or MBA

Related founder/work experience with deep-tech exposure

Tools

Relational databases

Job description

Northwestern University is seeking a Senior Venture Associate to lead venture development and translational funding programs in Evanston. You will evaluate early-stage technologies, mentor founders, and support investor-ready materials, reporting to the Executive Director.

The role focuses on strategic leadership across the N.XT Gap Fund and related translational programs, with emphasis on commercialization strategy and venture selection.