Commercialization Manager

Requisition Id15915

Overview

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), the Department of Energy's largest science and energy laboratory, is a global leader in cutting-edge research and innovation. We are seeking a Commercialization Manager-a dynamic, entrepreneurial professional passionate about transforming scientific breakthroughs into real-world impact. In this role, you will drive technology licensing and commercialization strategies, manage a diverse intellectual property (IP) portfolio, and build partnerships that accelerate innovation from the lab to the marketplace.

If you thrive at the intersection of science and business, enjoy building relationships, and want to make a tangible difference in energy, security, and sustainability, this is your opportunity.

Major Duties/Responsibilities

• Lead Technology Commercialization: Oversee the full lifecycle of ORNL technologies-from IP protection and marketing to licensing and commercialization.
• Evaluate Innovation: Assess 40-80 new inventions annually for commercial potential, collaborating with inventors, patent agents, and external law firms.
• Develop Market Strategies: Identify market opportunities, analyze competitive landscapes, and craft licensing plans aligned with patenting strategies.
• Drive Business Growth: Proactively engage potential licensees, negotiate agreements, and structure deals that align with company goals and due diligence milestones.
• Build Strategic Relationships: Serve as the primary liaison between ORNL's Technology Transfer Division and research directorates; deliver training and outreach to foster commercialization culture.
• Represent ORNL: Act as an ambassador at national and international forums, licensing association meetings, and industry events.
• Support Collaborative Initiatives: Manage commercialization for large-scale DOE programs and assist with agreements such as Material Transfer Agreements and Non-Disclosure Agreements.
• Champion ORNL Values: Promote Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service in all interactions and decisions.

Basic Qualifications

• A master's degree in physical sciences (materials, chemistry, physics, optics) or an engineering discipline (Electrical, Chemical, Mechanical, or Industrial) and 4+ years of relevant experience, or a PhD in similar field and 2+ years of relevant experience.
• Proven track record in technology transfer, licensing or the commercialization of technology in a scientific or academic setting (i.e. experience at another National Laboratory or R1 University).

• Ability to manage and process multiple disclosures, patents, copyrights, and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong business acumen with the ability to bridge scientific and commercial perspectives.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
• Working knowledge of IP law (patents, copyrights, trademarks) and basic contract law.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a physical science or engineering discipline plus MBA or Patent Agent.
• Involvement in professional organizations (LES, FLC, or AUTM), groups and committees dedicated to furthering the transition of scientific/technical developments to the commercial marketplace.

Special Requirements

• Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
• This position requires access to technology that is subject to export control requirements. Successful candidates must be qualified for such access without an export control license.

About ORNL

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation's most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.

If you have trouble applying for a position, please email ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.