Licensing Officer

Job Description

The Licensing Officer supports the Laboratory's technology transfer mission by evaluating intellectual property, identifying commercialization opportunities, managing licensing activities, and working collaboratively with technical, legal, and business stakeholders. The successful candidate will manage a portfolio of licensing opportunities, contribute to licensing strategy, and assist in negotiating agreements that advance the Laboratory's mission while supporting government sponsor objectives.

Essential Functions

• Identify potential licensees in the defense industrial base, large industry leaders, small businesses, and spinout/startup companies
• Evaluate the commercial potential and value proposition of intellectual property assets, including patents, software, and other technology assets in the context of industry trends and partner business goals
• Participate in the negotiation and execution of license agreements and related technology transfer agreements under the guidance of senior staff as appropriate
• Carefully understand technology sensitivities as it relates to national security classification and export control and respond accordingly in license negotiation / execution
• Work collaboratively with the IP management team to understand available assets and provide feedback on patent prosecution/IP protection strategy based on licensee needs and progress
• Work with collaborative research contracting team to ensure strategic alignment of sponsored research agreements and parallel / future licensing transactions
• Work collaboratively with the marketing / business development functions to maximize effectiveness of outreach
• Develop and maintain productive relationships with MIT campus technology licensing office staff to ensure effective information exchange, co-management strategies of overlapping cases, and best practices for licensing under MIT policies
• Manage a diverse portfolio of cases, strategizing a variety of licensing approaches (express licensing, exclusive/non-exclusive licensing, open-source, etc.) for commercialization in alignment with government sponsor and national security goals

Requirements

• Minimum of a B.S. in a Physical Sciences, with preference given to candidates with degrees in Electrical Engineering or related field
• An advanced technical degree is preferred, although not required
• Approximately 2–5 years of relevant professional experience in engineering, technology commercialization, intellectual property, product management, business development, research administration, technology transfer, or a related field.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities, exercise sound judgment, and work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills with careful attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to interact effectively with researchers, attorneys, government sponsors, and industry representatives.
• Experience with intellectual property, licensing, contracts, or commercialization activities is preferred but not required.
• Familiarity with federal research environments, government technology transfer, or national security technologies is desirable.
• U.S. citizenship required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.