Commercialization Fellow – SunRule Project

University of Maine System • Orono, ME

2d • $60,000

About The Position

The University of Maine is recruiting a recent graduate for a one-year entrepreneurial program focused on accelerating commercialization of the SunRule Project innovation. The program aims to launch a startup or license the technology to a business partner. The Fellow will receive coaching and mentoring while advancing the business plan and technology milestones, develop and execute a funding strategy including writing grant and investment proposals, and participate directly in technical development and business relationships. The position is soft-money funded, with external funding available for one year. Typical hiring salary is up to $60,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Applicants must submit a cover letter describing their experience, interests, and suitability for the position, along with a resume or curriculum vitae. Final-stage candidates will be asked to provide reference names and contact information. Incomplete applications cannot be considered, and materials received after the initial review date may be considered at the University's discretion. The successful applicant is subject to appropriate background screening.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant education or engineering discipline or in entrepreneurship.
• Be within three years of having completed the degree.
• At least two years’ experience working in technology development.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies.
• Ability to deliver presentations.
• Interest in commercialization and entrepreneurship, with an entrepreneurial mindset.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree or PhD in a relevant engineering discipline or entrepreneurship.
• Past participation in entrepreneurial or commercialization programs such as Innovation Engineering, Research to Real World, I-Corps, or MIRTA accelerator programs; similar programs from other institutions will be considered.
• Grant writing experience.

Responsibilities

• Advance the innovation’s business plan and technology milestones with coaching and mentoring.
• Develop and execute a funding strategy for the innovation, including writing grant and investment proposals.
• Participate directly in technical development and business relationships.
• Work toward launching a startup or licensing the technology to a business partner.

Benefits

• Tuition benefits for employees and dependents.
• Comprehensive insurance coverage, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and short- and long-term disability.
• Retirement plan options.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level