Associate General Counsel Research & Intellectual Property

University of Notre Dame • Notre Dame, IN

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The University of Notre Dame is seeking a dynamic and strategic attorney to support a broad portfolio including intellectual property, sponsored programs and research, technology commercialization, and related efforts. This role offers a vital opportunity to contribute to Notre Dame's vision as a premier global Catholic research institution. The attorney will collaborate closely with senior leaders, providing clarity, perspective, and sound judgment on strategic and operational initiatives. As a strategic legal partner, the role involves serving as a trusted advisor to campus organizations and senior administrative leadership on a wide range of issues. The position requires working across disciplines to address complex transactional and intellectual property law concerns, while fostering mission-based decision-making. In collaboration with the Office of General Counsel, this role will safeguard the University while supporting innovation and growth.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school
• Active license to practice law in at least one U.S. jurisdiction, with the ability to obtain admission in Indiana, if required
• Significant experience practicing in and strong working knowledge of intellectual property and transactional law
• Proven ability to provide responsive and proactive legal guidance to clients
• Exceptional judgment, analytical skills, and written and verbal communication abilities
• Ability to manage multiple matters simultaneously in a complex, fast-paced environment
• Highest commitment to professionalism, collaboration, and ethics
• At least 7 years of relevant professional experience

Nice To Haves

• Experience in extramurally funded research support and/or technology transfer
• Experience developing and delivering legal training/education
• Alignment with and appreciation for the mission and values of the University of Notre Dame

Responsibilities

• Provide legal representation associated with the initiation, administration, and conduct of internally and externally sponsored research, including compliance infrastructure for human subject protection, animal care and use.
• Provide substantial transactional oversight and involvement in research-related projects.
• Provide direct, day-to-day legal support to the IDEA Center, the technology commercialization arm of the University’s Research organization.
• Offer strategic direction and transactional support for the deployment and dissemination of University discoveries, including technology identification and protection in concert with outside counsel.
• Provide legal representation in third-party interactions such as licensing, collaborative relationships, and intellectual property disputes.
• Advise on the operation of a University-managed venture capital fund related to University technologies.
• Provide strategic operational and legal support to the University’s Office of Information Technologies (OIT), including involvement in OIT transactions.
• Support campus initiatives such as artificial intelligence implementation, and data privacy and security concerns (domestic and international).
• Serve as a subject matter expert in various areas of intellectual property law, including copyright, trademark, and patent licensing.
• Address day-to-day operational issues related to the development and use of intellectual property in academic and administrative affairs, such as academic publishing, use of electronic library resources, museum transactions and holdings, and trademark licensing.
• Respond to related third-party inquiries or claims.
• Monitor legal and regulatory developments within assigned practice areas and maintain current subject matter expertise through ongoing professional development.
• Identify emerging risks and best practices, and proactively develop and deliver education, guidance, and training to campus partners to promote compliance and informed decision-making.
• Provide additional legal support to other areas of the University, as assigned, based on interest, experience, and demand.

Benefits

• The University of Notre Dame offers a dynamic and rewarding environment for its diverse community of students, faculty, and staff.
• A deep sense of belonging, a culture that prioritizes well-being, and the opportunity to grow your career while being a force for good in the world.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree