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The International Centre for Translational Eye Research (ICTER) is a multi-investigator centre for eye research as related to imaging and biochemical techniques to support advances in understanding the aetiology and treatment of human blinding diseases. The new research agenda (carried under the International Research Agenda’ project no. FENG.02.01-IP.05-T005/23) aims to develop new tools for safer and more effective surgical interventions, new therapies for eye diseases, and diagnostic methods to improve prognosis and restore vision. The main technology to be developed under this program will be a novel robotic system for delivering drugs to the eye and performing a tissue biopsy, in which a robotic system will assist the micromanipulation of the injection device with 3-D localised imaging.

Further information on the research priorities and current expertise of our Centre can be found at http://www.icter.pl.

We are seeking a competent, proactive, and well-organised individual for the position of Technology Transfer Coordinator. The person in this role will serve as a key liaison between ICTER researchers and external partners from the business and innovation ecosystems, supporting the commercialisation of research outcomes and building bridges between science and industry. This position will involve working on prestigious projects carried out at ICTER, including the International Research Agenda and the newly established Centre of Excellence for Translational Research and Innovation in Ophthalmology, funded under the Horizon Europe – Teaming for Excellence program. These initiatives aim to drive the development of breakthrough diagnostic and therapeutic solutions in ophthalmology with the potential to transform vision care standards on a global scale.

1. Intellectual Property Management

• Developing and implementing technology transfer and commercialisation strategies for scientific research results generated within the MAB_FENG project.
• Identifying R&D results with commercialisation potential and supporting research teams in the protection and commercialisation process.
• Analysing the market potential of research and development outcomes and preparing commercialisation recommendations.
• Coordinating the intellectual property protection process (e.g., patent applications, know-how management, licensing agreements).
• Maintaining IP and technology transfer documentation in accordance with applicable regulations and EU project standards.
• Collaborating with the Technology Transfer Office at the Institute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences (IChF PAN) and external partners (industry, business, investors).

2. Licensing and Commercialisation

• Negotiating and concluding licensing and commercialisation agreements with companies, investors, or startups.
• Evaluating potential partners and preparing market analyses for technologies.

3. Collaboration and Advisory Support

• Educating research teams on IP principles, invention disclosures, and licensing opportunities.
• Facilitating communication between scientists and industry – supporting the execution of Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs), Material Transfer Agreements (MTAs), and similar contracts.
• Collaborating with incubators and accelerators to support the commercialisation process.

4. Partnership Development and Technology Promotion

• Building relationships with industry partners, investors, and funding institutions.
• Promoting technologies – presenting at trade fairs, conferences, and in industry media.

5. Administration and Reporting

• Monitoring the outcomes of commercialisation activities and reporting to funding agencies, academic institutions, or project partners.
• Ensuring compliance with applicable legal regulations and ICTER policies.

• Full-time employment under an employment contract.
• Attractive salary – 12 000 PLN gross per month.
• A dynamic and interdisciplinary work environment within an international research team.
• A real impact on the development of innovative medical technologies in the field of ophthalmology.
• Flexible working hours and a friendly atmosphere.
• On-site work at a modern office located in the centre of Warsaw, close to the metro station.

Our Requirements

• Higher education degree (PhD preferred) in natural sciences, engineering, law, or innovation management.
• Minimum of 3 years of professional experience in technology transfer, research commercialisation, or science–industry collaboration (including roles in research institutions or as a technology broker).
• Solid understanding of intellectual property law, including patent application procedures, know-how protection, and IP commercialisation.
• Practical knowledge of commercialisation models (e.g., licensing agreements, spin-off creation, IP rights sales).
• Ability to conduct market analysis and assess the implementation potential of technologies.
• Experience in managing projects and IP documentation in compliance with funding agency guidelines.
• Strong interpersonal skills; ability to work with interdisciplinary teams and external partners.
• Very good command of English (minimum C1 level).
• Proficiency in MS Office tools (especially Excel) and experience with document management systems.
• Familiarity with the functioning of research institutions and the principles of collaboration with public administration and enterprises.
• Proactive approach, self-reliance, and initiative.
• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work both independently and in a team, including under time pressure.

Nice to Have

• Experience in conducting R&D activities and promoting research results.
• Familiarity with science–business collaboration structures.
• Knowledge of national and regional smart specialisation strategies (KIS, RIS).
• Experience in drafting and analysing contracts, including commercialisation agreements.

• Effectiveness in Technology Transfer

Measured by the number, quality, and type of completed commercialisation processes, such as signed licensing agreements, established spin-offs, secured industry partnerships, or implemented research outcomes in practice.

• Expertise Relevant to the Project Scope

Assessed in terms of demonstrated knowledge and experience in intellectual property management, research result valorisation, drafting and negotiating IP-related contracts (e.g., NDAs, MTAs, license agreements), and familiarity with EU-funded project procedures and reporting requirements.

• Career Mobility and Intersectoral Experience

Evaluated by the diversity of professional background, including experience in research-performing organisations, technology transfer offices, industry (e.g., biotech/medtech), or innovation support structures (e.g., incubators, accelerators). International mobility or experience in interdisciplinary environments will be considered an asset.

• Strategic and Communication Skills

Measured by experience in building partnerships between academia and business, organising promotional or brokerage events, delivering IP-related training to research teams, and contributing to strategic planning in innovation and commercialisation processes.

• Initiative and Impact

Evaluated based on the candidate’s capacity to work independently, introduce new tools and procedures for effective knowledge and technology transfer, and contribute to the long-term sustainability of project results in line with the goals of MAB FENG and the European smart specialisation strategies.