Assistant Director – Intellectual Property and Translational Research

Assistant Director – Intellectual Property and Translational Research

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Assistant Director – Intellectual Property and Translational Research.

Job Summary 
The Assistant Director will be primarily responsible for organizing and managing the day-to-day activities associated with The University of Southern Mississippi’s (USM) the National Science Foundation (NSF) cooperative agreement titled ART: Accelerating Research Translation in Southern Mississippi from Concepts to Careers.  This new role will also assist in the management of USM intellectual property portfolio, development of new strategies for innovation management, and facilitate industry collaborations.

 
Primary Duties and Responsibilities 

Minimum Qualifications:
  Ph.D. degree from an accredited college or university in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics disciplines. Five years proven industry research and commercialization experience with expertise in project management, contract negotiations and intellectual property development.

 Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA):

•  Understanding of the process of translating academic research into practical applications and commercial products/services. Familiarity with technology transfer procedures, intellectual property rights, and licensing agreements.
• Ability to plan, organize, and execute complex projects involving multiple stakeholders and timelines. Proficiency in project management tools and techniques to ensure successful implementation and completion of tasks associated with the ART cooperative agreement.
• Capability to develop and implement strategic plans for innovation management, including the identification of new opportunities for research collaboration, industry engagement, and technology commercialization. Experience in fostering a culture of innovation within an academic institution.
• Strong interpersonal skills to establish and maintain effective relationships with faculty, staff, senior administration, industry partners, and external organizations. Ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders to achieve common goals and facilitate knowledge exchange.
• Proficiency in analyzing data to identify trends, evaluate program effectiveness, and make data-driven decisions to optimize innovation processes and resource allocation. Ability to interpret research findings and market insights to inform strategic decision-making.
• Experience in leading and managing multidisciplinary teams, including the ability to delegate tasks, provide guidance and support, and foster a collaborative work environment. Strong leadership skills to motivate team members and drive performance towards achieving organizational objectives.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively communicate with internal and external stakeholders, including the ability to present complex information in a clear and concise manner. Experience in preparing reports, presentations, and proposals for diverse audiences.
• Ability to think creatively, identify opportunities for innovation, and develop strategies to leverage the university's intellectual assets for economic development and societal impact. Familiarity with entrepreneurship principles and practices to support the creation of startup ventures and spin-off companies.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities, environments, and demands while maintaining a high level of performance. Resilience to overcome challenges and setbacks encountered during the implementation of innovation initiatives and research translation activities.
• Understanding of ethical considerations and legal regulations related to research, intellectual property, and technology commercialization. Adherence to ethical standards and compliance with relevant laws and policies governing innovation management and intellectual property rights.

About The University of Southern Mississippi
Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.
Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.
We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu . 

As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer/Americans with Disabilities Act institution, The University of Southern Mississippi encourages minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities to apply.