BASIC FUNCTION:
Reporting to the Assistant Director of Industry Partnerships and Licensing, the Senior Licensing Manager plays a key role in supporting the commercialization of intellectual property (IP) at Howard University. The incumbent will manage a portfolio of technologies, engage with faculty and industry partners, negotiate licensing agreements, and support the strategic objectives of the Office of Technology Transfer by helping bridge research innovations with commercial opportunities.
SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY:
None
NATURE AND SCOPE:
The Senior Licensing Manager is responsible for the identification, assessment, marketing, and licensing of university owned IP. The position requires collaboration with internal stakeholders (faculty, researchers, attorneys) and external entities (industry, startups, legal firms) to bring new inventions to market, secure licenses, and contribute to the formation of university affiliated ventures.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:
CORE COMPETENCIES:
• Strong knowledge of intellectual property rights and patent law.
• Demonstrated experience in technology marketing and licensing.
• Skilled in contract negotiation and relationship management.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Highly organized and detail oriented with strong project management skills.
• Collaborative mindset and the ability to engage with interdisciplinary teams.
• High ethical standards and ability to maintain confidentiality.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
• Bachelor's degree in a scientific, engineering, or technical discipline; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in technology transfer, licensing, or industry based IP transactions.
• Experience drafting and negotiating complex agreements involving intellectual property.
• Familiarity with academic research environments and university commercialization practices.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and technology/IP database systems (e.g., Sophia, Cayuse, etc.).
PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS:
• Demonstrated entrepreneurial mindset with a track record of identifying, evaluating, and pursuing commercialization opportunities, including startup formation or strategic partnerships.
• Proven success in licensing negotiations, including structuring complex agreements and securing favorable terms with industry partners, startups, and investors.
• In-depth understanding of intellectual property law, licensing strategies, and relevant legal practices, including patent prosecution, IP valuation, and contract negotiation.
• Experience working closely with inventors, legal counsel, and senior leadership to assess risk, protect university assets, and drive impactful outcomes.
• Ability to think strategically and creatively to overcome legal, technical, and business barriers to commercialization.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence, lead, and manage relationships across academic, legal, and industry stakeholders.
• Familiarity with the university tech transfer process and federal compliance (e.g., Bayh-Dole Act, export control, conflict of interest policies) is a plus.
Compliance Salary Range Disclosure
Expected Pay Range: $81,818 - $90,000