Technology Deployment Specialist

Reporting to the Head Technology Deployment, the Technology Deployment Specialist (TDS) is required to identify suitable partners (industry and others) to drive the deployment of innovative products from the intellectual assets of KAUST researchers. The TDS is an externally focused role and will be responsible for deploying KAUST technologies to partners culminating in options, licenses and/or assignments of KAUST IP rights. As part of the Technology Deployment Team, the TDS will work closely with other members of the Technology Transfer Office (TTO) to achieve the objectives of the Office of Innovation and Economic Development for the benefit of KAUST and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Major Responsibilities

Working with colleagues in Discovery team to understand KAUST intellectual assets that can be deployed.

Work with KAUST Faculty to develop Business Engagement Plans (mind maps) to identify suitable partners interested in KAUST intellectual assets. Understand and communicate KAUST intellectual assets effectively to partners to promote deployment of assets.

Scouting, identifying and developing partners that can use KAUST intellectual assets for the aim of contributing to the generation of impact for the diversification of the Saudi Arabian economy.

Develop industry intelligence through scouting exercises to understand partner needs and relay this information to Discovery and Development teams with a view of deployment.

Working with the Head Technology Deployment and Director of Technology Transfer to identify opportunities to establish deep-tech start-up companies and licensing opportunities for existing Saudi Arabian and International corporations.

Identify new businesses that are interested in spinning-in to have presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and wish to access our academic expertise and IP portfolio.

Works as part of the multi-disciplinary technology deployment team and provides support to the Head Technology Deployment as required.

Competencies The individual selected must be able to demonstrate interacting effectively with academic faculty and colleagues in KAUST Innovation as well as effectively communicating with industry partners. The selected person should demonstrate the following capabilities:

Strong understanding of the academic research environment

Excellent networking skills and client engagement skills

Substantial experience of business development with history of securing deals

Demonstrated success in more than one industry

Understanding of intellectual property protection and monetization

Capable of building strategic working relationships with external partners

Focused and delivery orientated work ethic

Excellent verbal and written communication skills (internally and externally) with strong partner focus

Excellent attention to detail

Ability to meet time sensitive deadlines and work under pressure

Ability to adapt to a changing environment

Highly motivated with the ability to work independently and as part of a team Qualifications

A Batchelor’s Degree in Science/Engineering with 10+ years related experience in similar role Or

MS degree in Science or Engineering with at least 6 years’ experience in a similar role

Academic-Industry partnership experience is essential

PhD qualification is preferred

Registered Technology Transfer Professional (RTTP) preferred but not essential