Technology Transfer Specialist

About the University and Innovate Surrey Ltd

The University of Surrey is a global community of ideas and people, dedicated to life-changing education and research. We are ambitious and have a bold vision - shaping ourselves into one of the best universities in the world - which we are achieving through the talents and endeavour of every employee.

Innovate Surrey Ltd (ISL) is a key part of the Research and Innovation (R&I) Directorate and is a subsidiary company of the University. ISL's mission is to support the delivery of the University's Vision 2041 by translating and commercialising university research into impactful technologies and commercial solutions that address key societal challenges.

About the Technology Transfer Specialist role

ISL is seeking a motivated and commercially minded Technology Transfer Specialist to join the ISL team. Working under the direction of the Managing Director of ISL, you will help identify, protect, and commercialise University intellectual property (IP), with a focus on maximising licensing and spinout opportunities. This role offers an excellent opportunity to learn from experienced colleagues and develop high-level technology transfer skills.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives at the interface of research, business and innovation, and who enjoys building trusted relationships with academics, industry partners and investors. Working closely with researchers and the wider ISL team, you will help identify high potential intellectual property, shape commercialisation strategies, and support licensing and spin out activity that delivers real world impact.

Key responsibilities include:

• Contributing to the identification and evaluation of new IP generated through University research.
• Managing a suitable portfolio of technology transfer projects at various stages of their lifecycle.
• Coordinating with external legal and patent professionals to manage IP protection, including patent filings.
• Developing detailed commercialisation plans and supporting applications for translational funding.
• Leading the development of spinout business plans and financial projections.
• Supporting the negotiation and completion of licence agreements and spinout formation documentation.

About you

You will be curious, analytical and confident, with the ability to understand complex technologies and articulate their commercial, societal and market potential. The successful candidate will bring experience in technology transfer, commercialisation, innovation management or a related research driven environment, alongside an understanding of IP protection, market assessment and commercial deal making. You will be comfortable managing multiple projects, developing business plans and financial forecasts, and contributing to negotiations and legal agreements. Equally important are excellent interpersonal skills, sound judgement and a collaborative, empathetic approach when working with academic inventors and external partners. A relevant degree (and ideally postgraduate qualification) in a science, engineering, Createch or innovation facing discipline, combined with strong commercial awareness and a proactive mindset, will enable you to succeed in this role and grow your career within a dynamic, impact focused innovation ecosystem.

You will need:

• A relevant postgraduate qualification (Science, Engineering, Createch, or similar) or substantial equivalent vocational management experience.
• Experience in technology transfer within a research or commercial environment.
• Expertise in IP protection, patenting, and managing IP portfolios.
• Experience negotiating complex commercial and legal agreements.
• Strong commercialisation and market evaluation skills together with the ability to develop business plans and financial forecasts for spinouts and startups.
• Strong project management skills and the ability to manage multiple concurrent projects.

What we can offer

In addition to salary, you will receive:

• Yearly incremental pay rises.
• Generous annual leave (25 days holiday, 7 university closure days, and 8 bank holidays).
• A generous pension and access to world-class leisure facilities on campus.
• Supportive family-friendly benefits, including an excellent on-site nursery.

Click here to find out more about the benefits we offer to support you.

How to apply

To apply complete the online application form. You may also submit a full CV and cover letter explaining your suitability for the role in no more than two pages if you wish. You should include specific detail about how you meet the essential criteria stated in the person specification, including core competencies. Please note a CV submitted without the online application form will not be accepted.

For an informal chat about the role, please contact Jim Shaikh, Managing Director

The University of Surrey is committed to providing an inclusive environment that offers equal opportunities for all. We place great value on diversity and are seeking to increase the diversity within our community. Therefore, we particularly encourage applications from under-represented groups, such as people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups and people with disabilities.

Further details

Job Description