Manager of the Technology Licensing Section
Lead the technology licensing section at OIST to transform cutting-edge research into commercial applications through intellectual property management, strategic partnerships, and business development.
The position
The Technology Licensing Section is a key part of OIST Innovation, the technology commercialization arm of OIST that drives technology transfer, industry partnerships, and startup incubation. The Technology Licensing Section is at the forefront of transforming cutting-edge research into real-world impact. We proactively identify high-potential technologies developed at OIST, protect and manage them primarily through patents, and drive commercialization by connecting with partners worldwide. Our work is fast-paced, global, and central to turning bold scientific ideas into innovation that matters. OIST is seeking a Manager of the Technology Licensing Section with a strong scientific or engineering background and proven leadership skills. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in transforming cutting-edge research into commercial applications, contributing to both economic development and scientific advancement. This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of academia, industry, and entrepreneurship while helping build a vibrant innovation ecosystem in Okinawa.
About OIST
The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University was established in 2011 to contribute to the development of science and technology worldwide and to serve as a hub of innovation in Okinawa. OIST is a dynamic new graduate university of science and technology in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan which offers a 5-year PhD program and brings together outstanding researchers from across the country and across disciplines to conduct cutting-edge scientific research.
The university is located on 85 hectares of protected forestland overlooking a beautiful shoreline and coral reefs. The campus is striking architecturally, and the facilities are outstanding. To facilitate multidisciplinary research, there are no academic departments. Outstanding resources and equipment are provided and managed to encourage easy access and collaboration.
English is the official language of the University, and the university research community is fully international, with more than 50 countries represented. OIST is rapidly gaining recognition in the worldwide academic community as a model for excellence in education and research, and our unwavering commitment to scientific and technological innovation is dedicated to generating progress that will fuel Okinawa's economic growth.
Responsibilities
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Strategic Leadership
- Develop and implement multi-year strategies for technology licensing in coordination with the OIST Innovation Management Team
- Interface with staff in Technology Development (POC Program) and Business Development to assess intellectual property and develop commercialization strategies
- Provide strategic guidance on OIST intellectual property, business development, and entrepreneurship policies
- Stay current with developments in intellectual property law and industry trends, and proactively identify opportunities to enhance the university's intellectual property program
- Contribute to OIST's broader innovation ecosystem development strategy
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Section Management
- Oversee daily operations of the section, including IP portfolio management and licensing activities
- Monitor and manage budget execution, including forecasting and adjustment
- Compile and deliver periodic performance updates to internal and external stakeholders
- Foster staff development through guidance, training, and growth opportunities
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Stakeholder Management
- Provide guidance and training to faculty, staff, and students on intellectual property policies and procedures
- Develop and maintain relationships with external partners, such as industry collaborators and patent attorneys, to advance the university's intellectual property goals
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Business Development
- Market OIST technologies through social media and at industry exhibitions and events in Japan and internationally
- Assist in negotiating various agreements including NDAs, MTAs, Collaborative/Sponsored Research Agreements, and Licensing Agreements
- Build and maintain relationships with potential licensees and investors
Requirements
(Required)
- Ph.D. or master’s degree in a relevant scientific or engineering field, or an equivalent combination of education and professional experience
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in technology transfer, research commercialization, industry R&D, engineering, or a related field
- Deep knowledge of intellectual property management and licensing
- Strong leadership abilities with proven team management experience
- Demonstrated ability to evaluate and understand diverse scientific and technical concepts
- Excellence in stakeholder management and communication
- Business-level English language proficiency, including a high level of reading comprehension and writing skills
(Preferred)
- Track record of successful technology development and commercialization
- Prior experience in industry (e.g., corporate R&D, engineering, product development, or business development)
- Business-level Japanese language proficiency, including a high level of reading comprehension and writing skills
Benefits
In accordance with the OIST Employee Compensation Regulations (A5).
Benefits:
- Relocation, housing and commuting allowances
- Annual paid leave and summer holidays
- Health insurance (Private School Mutual Aid)
- Welfare pension insurance (kousei-nenkin)
- Worker's accident compensation insurance (roudousha-saigai-hoshou-hoken)
- Access to Child Development Center
- Access to Schooling Options
- Language Education
- Resource Center (Daily Life Support in Okinawa)
- Remote Work System
Additional Info
Locations
- Main Campus: 1919-1 Tancha, Onna-son, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa
Application Information
- Application deadline: Applications will be accepted until the position is filled
- Starting date: As early as possible
- Report to: Executive Vice President for Technology Development and Innovation
- Application documents: Cover letter in English, Curriculum vitae in English
- Up to 2 references may be requested during final interview stage
- Apply via Interfolio platform
Working Conditions
- Employment term: Full-time, non-fixed term appointment with 6-month probationary period
- Working hours: 9:00 – 17:30 (managerial role, not subject to general employee working hours)
- Holidays: Saturday, Sunday, National holidays, Year-end and New Year holidays (Dec. 29 – Jan. 3)
- Leave: Annual Paid Holidays, Summer Leave, Sick Leave, Special Leave
Additional Information
- OIST is an equal opportunity, affirmative action educator and employer
- Information kept confidential per OIST Privacy Policy
- No smoking indoors
- Rules for Concurrent Appointment apply
- Contact: [email protected]
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