Florida Polytechnic University · 1 month ago
Director of Patents and Technology Transfer
Lakeland, FL
Full-time
Onsite
Lead/Staff, Director/Executive
$110K/yr - $118K/yr
5+ years expFlorida Polytechnic University is a leading institution in STEM education, committed to innovation and collaboration. The Director of Patents and Technology Transfer will lead efforts to manage and commercialize intellectual property, support industry partnerships, and ensure compliance with regulations to drive economic development in Florida's high-tech industries.
Universities
Responsibilities
Lead and manage the University’s intellectual property (IP) management and protection
Direct the evaluation, filing, and maintenance of patents and related IP generated by University researchers, ensuring alignment with institutional and legal standards. Review invention disclosures and assess commercial potential in consultation with inventors and legal counsel
Lead technology commercialization and licensing activities
Develop and negotiate license agreements, option agreements, material transfer agreements (MTAs), confidentiality agreements (NDAs), and other contracts that facilitate the commercialization of University-developed technologies
Cultivate industry and entrepreneurial partnerships
Collaborate with industry partners, startups, and investors to promote technology transfer opportunities and advance economic development in Florida’s innovation ecosystem
Facilitate faculty and student innovation
Provide training, resources, and one-on-one guidance to researchers and students regarding invention disclosures, IP protection, and commercialization pathways
Develop policies and compliance frameworks
Establish and maintain institutional policies and procedures governing IP ownership, revenue distribution, and Bayh-Dole Act compliance, as well as processes for invention reporting, patent application tracking, and licensing documentation
Promote University research visibility and impact
Prepare reports, metrics, and presentations related to invention disclosures, patent activity, and licensing revenue; strengthen the University’s reputation as a hub for applied research and innovation
Coordinate with legal, sponsored research, and industry engagement units
Collaborate across divisions to ensure smooth integration of IP management with research contracts, grants, and corporate collaborations; coordinate with external patent attorneys and manage all aspects of patent filing
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in engineering, science, or a related technical discipline
Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in patent management, technology transfer, or intellectual property law
Demonstrated understanding of U.S. patent laws, rules, and procedures
Experience managing relationships with patent attorneys, inventors, and industry partners
Strong project management and organizational skills
In lieu of a degree, any appropriate combination of relevant education, experience, and/or certifications may be considered
Must possess a valid driver's license
This position requires a criminal background check, which may include a Level II screening as required by Florida Statute 435.04
This position is subject to federal and state privacy regulations
Preferred
Master's or doctoral degree in science, engineering, or law (J.D. preferred)
Registration to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)
Experience in a university or research institution's technology transfer office
Demonstrated success in patent commercialization, licensing negotiations, or startup formation
Familiarity with federal funding regulations and Bayh-Dole Act compliance
Proven ability to build partnerships with industry and foster innovation ecosystems
Benefits
Health benefits
Flexible spending accounts
Medical and life insurance
Worker's compensation
Perks and Discounts
Annual Leave
Sick Leave
Employee Assistant Program (EAP)
Company
Florida Polytechnic University
Florida Polytechnic University is the nation's educational institution that provides education in science, engineering, and degree programs.
201-500 employees
H1B Sponsorship
Florida Polytechnic University has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (5)
2024 (9)
2023 (6)
2022 (5)
2021 (4)
2020 (3)
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageTotal Funding
$2.55MKey Investors
The Duke Energy FoundationUS Department of Energy
2024-09-17Grant· $0.05M
2022-04-25Grant· $2M
2022-01-13Grant· $0.15M
Leadership Team
Kathleen Bowman
Vice President of Advancement and CEO for Florida Polytechnic University Foundation
Allen Bottorff - P.E., Ph.D.
Vice President of Administration and Finance and Chief Financial Officer
Recent News
2025-12-15
2025-10-31
2025-10-27
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