Tech Transfer & Licensing Manager - Federal Lab Partnerships

Montana State University; Bozeman (MT); On-site; USD 105,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

Montana State University is seeking a Technology Manager within TechLink to lead licensing and partnership development for DoW/VA laboratories and to set up CRADAs with industry partners. The role involves working with TechLink staff and progressing toward independence in licensing responsibilities.

Regular travel to laboratories and conferences is expected, with compliance to federal tech transfer regulations and export controls.

Qualifications

• Master's or higher degree in a science or engineering field plus at least one year in technology transfer, R&D, product development, business development, or technology marketing.
• PhD preferred and CPL certification are advantageous for licensing negotiations and regulatory navigation.
• Knowledge of US patent law, copyright, trademark, and Bayh-Dole is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Review newly issued patents, patent applications, and invention information to identify technologies with industry partnership potential.
• Write business case materials for opportunities using invention records and inventor interviews.
• Research and identify strong prospective industry partners and engage them through email, phone, and other direct outreach.
• Support evaluation of opportunities and arrange the agreements needed to transfer materials, prototypes, or assets.
• Guide prospects in preparing license applications and documentation meeting federal tech transfer regulations and sponsor expectations.
• Keep accurate records in CRM systems and other databases; stay current on relevant IP portfolios.
• Frequent travel to DoW laboratories, VA centers, conferences, and tradeshows; navigate export control requirements.

Skills

Technology transfer

Business development

Industry outreach

License negotiations

CRADA development

Education

Master's or higher in science/engineering

Certified Licensing Professional

PhD preferred

Job description

Montana State University is seeking a Technology Manager within TechLink to lead licensing and partnership development for DoW/VA laboratories and to set up CRADAs with industry partners. The role involves working with TechLink staff and progressing toward independence in licensing responsibilities.

Regular travel to laboratories and conferences is expected, with compliance to federal tech transfer regulations and export controls.