Arizona State University
Technology Transfer Specialist (SWSIE)
Arizona State University, Scottsdale, Arizona, us, 85261
Technology Transfer Specialist (SWSIE)
Skysong Innovations is ASU's exclusive technology transfer and intellectual property management company responsible for the rapid and wide dissemination of ASU's discoveries and inventions into the marketplace for the public good.
The Technology Transfer Specialist identifies, evaluates, protects, markets, and/or out-licenses innovative, science-based technologies created at Arizona State University (ASU). The Technology Transfer Specialist focuses on technologies created at ASU within, or synergistic with, the NSF-funded Southwest Sustainability Innovation Engine (SWSIE) while also contributing to other technology transfer activities within Skysong Innovations.
Additionally, the Technology Transfer Specialist centrally coordinates with the technology transfer offices of ASU's SWSIE partner institutions (the University of Utah; the University of Nevada, Las Vegas; and the Desert Research Institute) and other SWSIE ecosystem partners to maximize SWSIE's introduction of real-world solutions to the market for the public good.
This position is primarily funded by an external National Science Foundation grant with an initial term of two years that ends on February 28, 2026. The granting organization has the discretion to extend the funding for additional periods, potentially up to a maximum total of 10 years, including the initial term. This position's continued existence beyond the initial two-year period depends on the availability of further funding, which is not guaranteed, in addition to other factors.
If selected, the applicant's employment in this position will be at-will, meaning either the employee or the company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice. This job description does not constitute a contract or guarantee of employment for any specific duration. No manager, supervisor, or representative of the company has the authority to alter this at-will employment relationship, except through a formal written agreement signed by the employee and the company's executive officer.
What you'll do:
Intellectual PropertyInteracts closely with ASU researchers to understand their research activities and solicits and assists with the completion and submission of invention disclosuresAnalyzes invention disclosures, understands invention features, provides analyses and recommendations, and performs substantive and procedural tasks associated with the filing, protection, and maintenance of intellectual property, especially intellectual property developed at ASU within, or synergistic with, SWSIEWorks with researchers to explain ASU's technology transfer activities, particularly regarding invention disclosures, the patent application process, and Skysong Innovations' standard procedures and practicesMonitors researchers' scientific publications, looks for potential invention disclosures and becomes familiar with specific research activitiesWorks with outside patent counsel and ASU inventors in crafting patent applications and responses to patent office actions and other information requests, consulting with and/or escalating matters to the Director of Intellectual Property and/or the Chief Patent Counsel when neededManages patent prosecution budgets for assigned casesProvides best-in-class IP services to researchers and staff by maintaining and further developing links in relationships between researchers and outside counsel, helping to navigate complex, sensitive issues, keeping the University's best interest in mind, and advising researchers on best practiceServes as the primary point of contact for researchers and staff, fostering productive relationships with campus administrators and student innovators, and ensures ongoing engagement, participation, and support for innovation and discovery while facilitating their connection with technology transfer operationsWorks with internal leadership and the Skysong Innovations business development team to prepare reports and presentations communicating strategies, activities, and results obtained in the solicitation and management of intellectual property, especially for intellectual property developed at ASU within, or synergistic with, SWSIESupports researchers on intellectual property matters related to grant proposals for funding from public and private sourcesAnalyzes statements of work within material-transfer agreements, joint-development agreements, and sponsored-research agreements to determine whether identified materials are subject to existing ASU patent protection and, if not, makes a recommendation for whether patent protection is appropriateMarketing
In consultation with researcher inventors, leads full-cycle marketing efforts to potential licensees and/or venture development firms via email, phone, and face-to-face interactions, especially for intellectual property developed at ASU within, or synergistic with, SWSIECreates nonconfidential summaries and/or presentationsPerforms market research to identify potential licenseesExecutes tailored marketing campaignsLicensing and Business Development
Lead full-cycle licensing negotiations from term sheet to definitive agreement in partnership with the Director of Licensing and Business Development and Skysong Innovations' in-house legal counsel, especially for intellectual property developed at ASU within, or synergistic with, SWSIEDesigns and proposes initial term sheets for licensing deals based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to established licensing norms and internal/external market comparablesDrafts licensing agreements using established templates and approved language while working closely with the Director of Licensing and Business Development and Skysong Innovations' in-house legal counselEvaluates and discusses sophisticated and often innovative technologies regularlyFacilitates the advancement of ASU startup companies when appropriateProvides business and technical insights concerning technologies and possible commercialization opportunities and pathways, particularly in the context of licensing deals and key decisions arising in associated patent prosecution timelinesSupports colleagues in ongoing compliance activities related to active agreementsServes as a helpful partner to connect various stakeholders within the university ecosystem, which may include supporting opportunities with corporate collaborators regarding the use of ASU and SWSIE physical resources, facility use agreements, sponsored research agreements, or joint funding proposalsMaintains up-to-date project statuses via internal databases to ensure accurate tracking and reportingReports on and raises issues for discussions regarding negotiations and deals during recurring licensing meetings led by the Director of Licensing and Business DevelopmentMakes and delivers presentations to researchers, students, industry, university leadership, and boards, which may include attending conferences to present SWSIE and ASU capabilities to attract technology transfer opportunities and other mutually beneficial industry engagementsProvides mentorship, training, supervision, and learning opportunities to interns, externs, and/or student workers as neededCross-Partner Coordination
Coordinates with the technology transfer offices of ASU's SWSIE partner institutions (the University of Utah; the University of Nevada, Las Vegas; and the Desert Research Institute) in the tracking and coordination of invention disclosure, patenting, and licensing activities related to intellectual property created within SWSIECoordinates, as needed, the process for resolving certain disputes among SWSIE participantsCollaborates with the sustainability community to establish partnerships, aid in the creation of startups, and facilitate the licensing processSupports strategies for patenting and licensing within SWSIEPromotes and tracks reporting to the National Science Foundation regarding invention disclosures, patents, and licenses for intellectual property created within SWSIEWhat you'll need:
Advanced understanding of intellectual property principles, particularly those related to patentsAbility to identify and technically evaluate a wide range of sustainability-oriented technologies concerning their protectability, commercial potential, and application as products and processes in real-world situationsAbility to manage external patent counsel in efforts to secure patent protection for inventions and make suggestions to draft patent filings to improve qualityAbility to design and execute marketing campaigns for innovative, science-based technologiesAbility to distill complex technical subject matter into concise, understandable summaries that highlight the practical benefits of an invention without divulging confidential informationAbility to collaboratively negotiate business terms for a wide array of licensing agreements, including term sheets, option agreements, and long-form, definitive license agreementsAbility to recognize circumstances that require escalation and additional discussions with the Executive Director, Director of Licensing and Business Development, Skysong Innovations' in-house legal team, and/or other Skysong Innovations colleaguesExperience using IP management databases and systemsFamiliarity with the Bayh-Dole ActUnderstanding of academic values with the ability to communicate the critical role of technology transfer to the academic innovation cultureHigh level of empathy and situational awareness-capable of independently interacting and building positive relationships with a variety of sophisticated stakeholders, including senior researchers, university executives and administrators, investors, entrepreneurs, technology executives, and community leadersEntrepreneurial mindset and creative problem solver, adept at proactively identifying problems and opportunities and devising and executing solutionsAbility to continuously educate oneself about new technologiesTeam-oriented strategist able to effectively manage complex situations involving numerous and sometimes competing constituenciesCollaborative style, combined with the ability and desire to work in a team-based environmentAbility to handle sensitive matters with discretion and tact while maintaining a high degree of confidentiality and responsibility regarding information related to Skysong Innovations (SI) and ASUStrong and collegial interpersonal skills and an ability to communicate effectively in person, writing, and by phone with researchers, administrators, and industrySelf-starter who demonstrates a high level of initiative; ability to advance projects toward an ultimate objective in a collaborative environmentDeadline-driven, highly organized individual able to work independently and handle multiple high-priority tasks in a fast-paced and fluid environmentAdept at navigating complex environments with evolving priorities and communication plansAttention to detail and thoroughness in completing assigned dutiesAbility to effectively represent and promote the institutionExcellent public speaking skillsAbility to network effectively with a broad array of potential partnersRelevant Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in a science or engineering discipline with a demonstrable understanding of sustainability-oriented technologiesA minimum of four (4) years of relevant experience, including at least two (2) years of relevant technology-transfer experience that included identifying, evaluating, protecting, marketing, and out-licensing innovative, science-based technologies.Preferred Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in environmental engineering or other discipline related to sustainability-oriented technologiesMaster's or PhD in a science or engineering disciplineA minimum of four (4) years of relevant technology-transfer experience, including experience identifying, evaluating, protecting, marketing, and out-licensing innovative, science-based technologiesExperience with Minuet intellectual property management/technology transfer softwareBenefits:
Hybrid work schedule. We work from home two days a week!Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance401(k) plan with matching employer contribution22 days of vacation time11 holidays, including your birthdayParental leaveSignificant tuition reductionsProfessional development is highly valued at ASU Enterprise Partners, where employees are encouraged to look across the organization and nurture new areas of interest$30 bi-weekly cell phone reimbursement
At ASU Enterprise Partners:
We serve.
We serve the faculty and staff of ASU to bring them resources so they can do all the great things that they do.
We innovate.
We're always looking for new ideas, new solutions, new approaches and new ways to address the challenges facing ASU.
We engage.
We engage our donors, philanthropists, investors and partners, connecting them to ASU and helping them share their time, talent and treasure.
We care.
When we serve, innovate and engage, it shows that we care - about faculty, staff, donors, fellow employees and other partners as we bring resources to ASU
ASU Enterprise Partners and its subsidiaries is an equal opportunity employer that is firmly committed to promoting justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion within our organization and throughout our sphere of influence. Because we embrace a spirit of innovation and achievement, we will endeavor to maximize the talent and potential of all employees, directors, and volunteers through bold and strategic action aimed at building success and a sense of belonging. All employees are expected to act in good faith to support these actions and to not impede the efforts of others to build a just, equitable, diverse, and inclusive organization.
ASU Enterprise Partners
is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Skysong Innovations is ASU's exclusive technology transfer and intellectual property management company responsible for the rapid and wide dissemination of ASU's discoveries and inventions into the marketplace for the public good.
The Technology Transfer Specialist identifies, evaluates, protects, markets, and/or out-licenses innovative, science-based technologies created at Arizona State University (ASU). The Technology Transfer Specialist focuses on technologies created at ASU within, or synergistic with, the NSF-funded Southwest Sustainability Innovation Engine (SWSIE) while also contributing to other technology transfer activities within Skysong Innovations.
Additionally, the Technology Transfer Specialist centrally coordinates with the technology transfer offices of ASU's SWSIE partner institutions (the University of Utah; the University of Nevada, Las Vegas; and the Desert Research Institute) and other SWSIE ecosystem partners to maximize SWSIE's introduction of real-world solutions to the market for the public good.
This position is primarily funded by an external National Science Foundation grant with an initial term of two years that ends on February 28, 2026. The granting organization has the discretion to extend the funding for additional periods, potentially up to a maximum total of 10 years, including the initial term. This position's continued existence beyond the initial two-year period depends on the availability of further funding, which is not guaranteed, in addition to other factors.
If selected, the applicant's employment in this position will be at-will, meaning either the employee or the company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice. This job description does not constitute a contract or guarantee of employment for any specific duration. No manager, supervisor, or representative of the company has the authority to alter this at-will employment relationship, except through a formal written agreement signed by the employee and the company's executive officer.
What you'll do:
Intellectual PropertyInteracts closely with ASU researchers to understand their research activities and solicits and assists with the completion and submission of invention disclosuresAnalyzes invention disclosures, understands invention features, provides analyses and recommendations, and performs substantive and procedural tasks associated with the filing, protection, and maintenance of intellectual property, especially intellectual property developed at ASU within, or synergistic with, SWSIEWorks with researchers to explain ASU's technology transfer activities, particularly regarding invention disclosures, the patent application process, and Skysong Innovations' standard procedures and practicesMonitors researchers' scientific publications, looks for potential invention disclosures and becomes familiar with specific research activitiesWorks with outside patent counsel and ASU inventors in crafting patent applications and responses to patent office actions and other information requests, consulting with and/or escalating matters to the Director of Intellectual Property and/or the Chief Patent Counsel when neededManages patent prosecution budgets for assigned casesProvides best-in-class IP services to researchers and staff by maintaining and further developing links in relationships between researchers and outside counsel, helping to navigate complex, sensitive issues, keeping the University's best interest in mind, and advising researchers on best practiceServes as the primary point of contact for researchers and staff, fostering productive relationships with campus administrators and student innovators, and ensures ongoing engagement, participation, and support for innovation and discovery while facilitating their connection with technology transfer operationsWorks with internal leadership and the Skysong Innovations business development team to prepare reports and presentations communicating strategies, activities, and results obtained in the solicitation and management of intellectual property, especially for intellectual property developed at ASU within, or synergistic with, SWSIESupports researchers on intellectual property matters related to grant proposals for funding from public and private sourcesAnalyzes statements of work within material-transfer agreements, joint-development agreements, and sponsored-research agreements to determine whether identified materials are subject to existing ASU patent protection and, if not, makes a recommendation for whether patent protection is appropriateMarketing
In consultation with researcher inventors, leads full-cycle marketing efforts to potential licensees and/or venture development firms via email, phone, and face-to-face interactions, especially for intellectual property developed at ASU within, or synergistic with, SWSIECreates nonconfidential summaries and/or presentationsPerforms market research to identify potential licenseesExecutes tailored marketing campaignsLicensing and Business Development
Lead full-cycle licensing negotiations from term sheet to definitive agreement in partnership with the Director of Licensing and Business Development and Skysong Innovations' in-house legal counsel, especially for intellectual property developed at ASU within, or synergistic with, SWSIEDesigns and proposes initial term sheets for licensing deals based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to established licensing norms and internal/external market comparablesDrafts licensing agreements using established templates and approved language while working closely with the Director of Licensing and Business Development and Skysong Innovations' in-house legal counselEvaluates and discusses sophisticated and often innovative technologies regularlyFacilitates the advancement of ASU startup companies when appropriateProvides business and technical insights concerning technologies and possible commercialization opportunities and pathways, particularly in the context of licensing deals and key decisions arising in associated patent prosecution timelinesSupports colleagues in ongoing compliance activities related to active agreementsServes as a helpful partner to connect various stakeholders within the university ecosystem, which may include supporting opportunities with corporate collaborators regarding the use of ASU and SWSIE physical resources, facility use agreements, sponsored research agreements, or joint funding proposalsMaintains up-to-date project statuses via internal databases to ensure accurate tracking and reportingReports on and raises issues for discussions regarding negotiations and deals during recurring licensing meetings led by the Director of Licensing and Business DevelopmentMakes and delivers presentations to researchers, students, industry, university leadership, and boards, which may include attending conferences to present SWSIE and ASU capabilities to attract technology transfer opportunities and other mutually beneficial industry engagementsProvides mentorship, training, supervision, and learning opportunities to interns, externs, and/or student workers as neededCross-Partner Coordination
Coordinates with the technology transfer offices of ASU's SWSIE partner institutions (the University of Utah; the University of Nevada, Las Vegas; and the Desert Research Institute) in the tracking and coordination of invention disclosure, patenting, and licensing activities related to intellectual property created within SWSIECoordinates, as needed, the process for resolving certain disputes among SWSIE participantsCollaborates with the sustainability community to establish partnerships, aid in the creation of startups, and facilitate the licensing processSupports strategies for patenting and licensing within SWSIEPromotes and tracks reporting to the National Science Foundation regarding invention disclosures, patents, and licenses for intellectual property created within SWSIEWhat you'll need:
Advanced understanding of intellectual property principles, particularly those related to patentsAbility to identify and technically evaluate a wide range of sustainability-oriented technologies concerning their protectability, commercial potential, and application as products and processes in real-world situationsAbility to manage external patent counsel in efforts to secure patent protection for inventions and make suggestions to draft patent filings to improve qualityAbility to design and execute marketing campaigns for innovative, science-based technologiesAbility to distill complex technical subject matter into concise, understandable summaries that highlight the practical benefits of an invention without divulging confidential informationAbility to collaboratively negotiate business terms for a wide array of licensing agreements, including term sheets, option agreements, and long-form, definitive license agreementsAbility to recognize circumstances that require escalation and additional discussions with the Executive Director, Director of Licensing and Business Development, Skysong Innovations' in-house legal team, and/or other Skysong Innovations colleaguesExperience using IP management databases and systemsFamiliarity with the Bayh-Dole ActUnderstanding of academic values with the ability to communicate the critical role of technology transfer to the academic innovation cultureHigh level of empathy and situational awareness-capable of independently interacting and building positive relationships with a variety of sophisticated stakeholders, including senior researchers, university executives and administrators, investors, entrepreneurs, technology executives, and community leadersEntrepreneurial mindset and creative problem solver, adept at proactively identifying problems and opportunities and devising and executing solutionsAbility to continuously educate oneself about new technologiesTeam-oriented strategist able to effectively manage complex situations involving numerous and sometimes competing constituenciesCollaborative style, combined with the ability and desire to work in a team-based environmentAbility to handle sensitive matters with discretion and tact while maintaining a high degree of confidentiality and responsibility regarding information related to Skysong Innovations (SI) and ASUStrong and collegial interpersonal skills and an ability to communicate effectively in person, writing, and by phone with researchers, administrators, and industrySelf-starter who demonstrates a high level of initiative; ability to advance projects toward an ultimate objective in a collaborative environmentDeadline-driven, highly organized individual able to work independently and handle multiple high-priority tasks in a fast-paced and fluid environmentAdept at navigating complex environments with evolving priorities and communication plansAttention to detail and thoroughness in completing assigned dutiesAbility to effectively represent and promote the institutionExcellent public speaking skillsAbility to network effectively with a broad array of potential partnersRelevant Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in a science or engineering discipline with a demonstrable understanding of sustainability-oriented technologiesA minimum of four (4) years of relevant experience, including at least two (2) years of relevant technology-transfer experience that included identifying, evaluating, protecting, marketing, and out-licensing innovative, science-based technologies.Preferred Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in environmental engineering or other discipline related to sustainability-oriented technologiesMaster's or PhD in a science or engineering disciplineA minimum of four (4) years of relevant technology-transfer experience, including experience identifying, evaluating, protecting, marketing, and out-licensing innovative, science-based technologiesExperience with Minuet intellectual property management/technology transfer softwareBenefits:
Hybrid work schedule. We work from home two days a week!Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance401(k) plan with matching employer contribution22 days of vacation time11 holidays, including your birthdayParental leaveSignificant tuition reductionsProfessional development is highly valued at ASU Enterprise Partners, where employees are encouraged to look across the organization and nurture new areas of interest$30 bi-weekly cell phone reimbursement
At ASU Enterprise Partners:
We serve.
We serve the faculty and staff of ASU to bring them resources so they can do all the great things that they do.
We innovate.
We're always looking for new ideas, new solutions, new approaches and new ways to address the challenges facing ASU.
We engage.
We engage our donors, philanthropists, investors and partners, connecting them to ASU and helping them share their time, talent and treasure.
We care.
When we serve, innovate and engage, it shows that we care - about faculty, staff, donors, fellow employees and other partners as we bring resources to ASU
ASU Enterprise Partners and its subsidiaries is an equal opportunity employer that is firmly committed to promoting justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion within our organization and throughout our sphere of influence. Because we embrace a spirit of innovation and achievement, we will endeavor to maximize the talent and potential of all employees, directors, and volunteers through bold and strategic action aimed at building success and a sense of belonging. All employees are expected to act in good faith to support these actions and to not impede the efforts of others to build a just, equitable, diverse, and inclusive organization.
ASU Enterprise Partners
is an Equal Opportunity Employer