Commercialization Specialist I/II

Iowa State University•Ames, IA

About The Position

The Office of Innovation Commercialization (OIC) at Iowa State University is accepting applications for a Commercialization Specialist, Level I or II who will report to the Assistant Director of Business Development. The successful candidate will manage an intellectual property (IP) portfolio; solicit technology invention disclosures and evaluate them for commercial and protection potential; develop plans to protect the IP; cultivate relationships with companies (including startups) most likely to commercialize the ISU technologies; develop and implement effective strategies to market the technologies; and negotiate license agreements. The Commercialization Specialist will assist other staff and ISU administration in understanding the technologies, IP protection and commercialization strategies; in monitoring licensee compliance and performance; and in promoting participation in the ISU entrepreneurial ecosystem, including I-Corps and the ISU Startup Factory. This position may be tasked with overseeing junior personnel. The successful candidate will possess the ability to pay close attention to detail, while managing multiple projects and deadlines. The candidate will also need to demonstrate excellent oral and written communications skills, along with the creativity necessary to implement innovative solutions to commercialize technologies. This is a rewarding role for someone who enjoys being at the forefront of scientific discovery and innovation. You’ll work directly with researchers on cutting-edge technologies and breakthrough science—without the pressure of grant writing or teaching responsibilities. The office is self-funded with stable financial support, offering long-term sustainability and freedom to focus on impactful work. You'll be part of a supportive, collaborative team committed to professional development, including a multi-year plan for on-the-job training to build expertise in technology transfer. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position. This candidate may be hired at a level I or II, depending on experience: Level I: Requires a Bachelor's degree (PS809) Level II: Requires a Bachelor's degree and 3 yrs of related experience (PS810) This posting will be open until filled. However, to receive full consideration, please apply before April 25th, 2026.

Requirements

Ability to pay close attention to detail
Manage multiple projects and deadlines
Excellent oral and written communications skills
Creativity necessary to implement innovative solutions to commercialize technologies
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship
Bachelor's degree (Level I)
Bachelor's degree and 3 yrs of related experience (Level II)

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree in an engineering or science-related field such as physics
Demonstrated experience working in an industry setting, particularly in roles involving product development, R&D, or technology evaluation
Experience in the commercialization of emerging technologies, including evaluating invention disclosures, drafting technology assessments, and developing marketing strategies
Proven track record in negotiating contracts, licensing agreements, or collaborative R&D agreements with industry partners
Experience translating and marketing complex scientific or technical information to various audiences, including investors, business leaders, and researchers
Familiarity with intellectual property protection processes

Responsibilities

Manage an intellectual property (IP) portfolio
Solicit technology invention disclosures and evaluate them for commercial and protection potential
Develop plans to protect the IP
Cultivate relationships with companies (including startups) most likely to commercialize the ISU technologies
Develop and implement effective strategies to market the technologies
Negotiate license agreements
Assist other staff and ISU administration in understanding the technologies, IP protection and commercialization strategies
Monitor licensee compliance and performance
Promote participation in the ISU entrepreneurial ecosystem, including I-Corps and the ISU Startup Factory
Overseeing junior personnel (potentially)