IP & Technology Transfer Specialist

Introduction

The TU/e Knowledge Transfer Office (KTO) is the universitys hub for transforming scientific breakthroughs into real-world impact. A central component of this mission is the active identification protection and commercialization of intellectual property (IP) arising from TU/e research. You will join KTOs IP support and technology transfer team working closely with business developers researchers and TU/e Participations.

Job Description

We are looking for a tech-savvy IP professional with a strong understanding of deeptech innovation and a passion for translating scientific discoveries into societal and economic value. Rather than focusing mainly on legal tasks this role emphasizes IP evaluation technology positioning commercialization potential and strategic portfolio development in close collaboration with inventors business developers and external partners.

This position offers autonomy variety and the opportunity to work at the interface of advanced technology market opportunities and intellectual property strategy at one of Europes leading engineering universities.

Key Responsibilities

1. EarlyStage IP Scouting & Invention Evaluation

• • Engage directly with research groups to identify promising inventions and technology opportunities.
  • Assess technical merit patentability competitive landscape of new disclosures.
  • Guide researchers in drafting highquality Invention Disclosure Forms (IDFs) and in understanding IP processes.

1. IP Protection Strategy & Patent Portfolio Development

• • Shape the protection strategy for TU/e technologies aligning it with scientific strengths and market relevance.
  • Coordinate with business developers on patentability assessments prior art reviews and filing decisions.
  • Organizing filing and prosecution of new and existing IP filings.
  • Monitor the ongoing quality and positioning of TU/es patent portfolio ensuring resources are focused on technologies with strong commercial promise.

1. Commercialization & TechTransfer Pathway Development

• • Translate technical concepts into value propositions for industry partners licensees and potential spin-offs.
  • Work with business developers to explore licensing opportunities market entry routes and potential partnerships.
  • Support TU/e Participations and venture-building colleagues in preparing IP elements relevant for spin-off creation (ownership clarity licensing structure strategic fit).

1. DataDriven IP Insights & Automation

• • Use advanced tools including AI-driven IP analytics to identify technological trends competitors and whitespace opportunities.
  • Contribute to automating parts of the IDF intake evaluation and portfolio management workflows.
  • Help develop dashboards and analytical tools for IP portfolio monitoring and decision support.

1. Community Engagement & IP Awareness

• • Develop and deliver IP awareness activities workshops and materials for researchers and support staff.
  • Promote a culture of innovation and early reporting of research results across departments.
  • Act as a trusted advisor for researchers navigating commercializing their ideas.
    
    

Job Requirements

Education & Experience

• Academic background preferably a Master or a PhD in engineering or physics or related technical fields.
• Experience in technology transfer IP management innovation support or R&D environments (510 years).
• A solid understanding of patents and IP processes; legal training is welcome but not the focus of this role.

Expertise

• Strong affinity with:
  • IP strategy and technology positioning
  • Patentability assessments and technology landscaping
  • Commercialization routes for deeptech (licensing partnerships spin-offs)
  • Automation digital tools and data-driven portfolio insights
  • AI-supported patent analytics (preferred)

Skills

• Highly techsavvy and comfortable working with modern IP and data systems.
• Strong communication skillsable to translate technical concepts to non-technical audiences.
• A collaborative mindset and the ability to serve as a connector between researchers business developers and external partners.
• Proactive analytical structured and serviceoriented.
• Fluent English and preferably also in Dutch.
  
  

Conditions of Employment

An exciting position within an international yet personal university. You are right in the middle of the students on a green campus within walking distance of the central station. Besides beautiful architecture you will find varied workplaces and excellent sports facilities. We also offer you:

• Position 1.0 0.8 FTE; initial one-year contract with the intention of permanence.
• A monthly salary of minimum 5705 to maximum 7904 for full-time employment depending on your knowledge and experience (scale 12/13 Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities).
• In addition to vacation pay a structural end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.
• A favorable arrangement for more holidays or a sabbatical.
• A selection model for additional fringe benefits.
• Working hours in consultation for an optimal work-life balance.
• Scope for your talent with advancement prospects and excellent development opportunities such as mentoring workshops and coaching.
• A dynamic mission-driven work environment on a vibrant campus.
• Partially paid parental leave and reimbursement for commuting expenses working from home and the internet.
• A generous employer contribution to the favorable ABP pension plan.
• Unlimited access to the modern oncampus TU/e Student Sports Center at an exceptionally affordable rate for you and if applicable your partner.

Here you can discover even more information about our conditions of employment. Build on your career at TU/e!

About us

We are a leading international university where scientific curiosity meets a hands-on mindset. We work in an open and collaborative way with high-tech industries to tackle complex societal challenges. Our responsible and respectful approach ensures impact today and in the future. TU/e is home to over 13000 students and more than 7000 staff forming a diverse and vibrant academic community.

Our university is located in Brainport Eindhoven a worldleading tech region with more than 7000 hightech companies and strong R&D activity. Known for breakthroughs in AI photonics semiconductors and advanced manufacturing Brainport is a place where technology serves people and society. Learn more about the Brainport region here.

Information

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to have more information about the position you can contact Euflex Search & Select 100% subsidiary of TU/e.

Ceciel Gijsbers or Linde Keverkamp resp. resp. 040-2476303

For questions about the application process or the conditions of employment please contact ...

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e Please visit our career page.

Application

If you are interested please use the apply button at to send us your CV and letter of application with your motivation and a description of your qualifications.

Screening of candidates begins as soon as applications are received and continues until the position is filled. Where applicable internal candidates will be given priority over external candidates where they are equally suitable.

We look forward to receiving your application!

Please note

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• A pre-employment screening (e.g. knowledge security check) can be part of the selection procedure. For more information on the knowledge security check please consult the National Knowledge Security Guidelines.
• Important for non-EU applicants: Please be aware that for this position specific residence permit requirements apply. If you are a non-EU national you may not be eligible to legally work in this role under current Dutch immigration regulations. We strongly advise you to contact our Staff Immigration Team () before applying to check your eligibility and to receive further guidance.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.