About the department
The Polsky Center advances innovative ideas and technologies from the University of Chicago ecosystem to the world. Through education, resources, and programs, the Polsky Center commercializes discoveries, partners with companies, and attracts venture capital. Among other programming, the Polsky Center runs a top-ranked business accelerator, the Edward L. Kaplan New Venture Challenge; operates a multi-disciplinary co-working space called the Polsky Exchange; and manages the George Shultz Innovation Fund that invests in early-stage ventures. The Polsky Center also houses the University of Chicago's technology transfer unit, which manages all University-based intellectual property originating from faculty research and discoveries that can be licensed to industry partners and investors.
Job summary
Reporting to the Assistant Vice President for Technology Ventures, the Director of Venture Development, AI will play a pivotal role in advancing the commercialization of University of Chicago AI and data science ventures and managing a robust network of relationships with investors. The Director will work closely with University faculty and researchers to evaluate AI and data science research innovations and assess startup potential, provide guidance on commercialization strategies, support preparation for investor engagement, and provide connections to relevant funding, talent, and advice. The Director will act as a critical liaison to the venture capital ecosystem and other investors, cultivating relationships and connecting investors with relevant startups to secure funding and strategic partnerships.
Responsibilities
- Drive Venture Development team priorities, in close collaboration with partners including the Data Science Institute at the University of Chicago. Set and execute strategies to support the creation and growth of University researchers' AI and data science ventures, and build and strengthen relationships with the venture capital and investor ecosystem.
- Work closely with University faculty and researchers to identify and assess the commercial potential of new and existing research projects and invention disclosures, in partnership with IP and business development team leadership.
- Work closely with faculty to understand their venture needs and next steps, and provide ongoing proactive coaching.
- Undertake technical and commercial due diligence based on input from internal and external stakeholders, with the objective of charting a business/commercialization strategy.
- Prepare faculty and their startups for investment diligence, and engage with investors — including reviewing and supporting the development of business plans and pitch decks, coaching researchers in presenting ideas to investors, and proactively identifying and facilitating investor meetings.
- Establish or expand programs to identify and support entrepreneurial talent, mentorship, and early-stage management for AI and data science ventures.
- Build and cultivate a robust network of venture capitalists, corporate investors, and industry leaders to support funding and strategic partnerships for faculty startups.
- Track emerging trends in venture capital and University research focus, especially in AI and data science, to inform strategic opportunities for faculty ventures.
- Lead the identification, investigation, and negotiation of licensing opportunities, and the development of intellectual property patenting, licensing, commercialization activities, and marketing plans.
Minimum qualifications
- A college or university degree in a related field.
- Knowledge and skills developed through 7+ years of work experience in a related job discipline.
Preferred qualifications
- Advanced degree in computer science, engineering, or a related discipline.
- Knowledge and skills developed through 10+ years of experience in technology commercialization, venture creation, and/or investments.
- Experience launching, working at, or investing in early-stage AI or data science startups, and familiarity with venture capital or other investor diligence.
- Deep expertise in supporting the creation and growth of AI, data science, or computer science-based ventures, including developing commercialization strategies and preparing investor engagement materials.
Working conditions
This position is currently expected to work a minimum of three days per week in the office on the Hyde Park Campus in Chicago, IL. The University's good-faith pay estimate for this role is $150,000–$200,000 and the position is benefits eligible. A resume/CV is required and a cover letter is preferred.