Licensing Officer

Supports the Laboratory's technology transfer mission by evaluating intellectual property, identifying commercialization opportunities, managing licensing activities, and working collaboratively with technical, legal, and business stakeholders. Manages a portfolio of licensing opportunities, contributes to licensing strategy, and assists in negotiating agreements that advance the Laboratory's mission while supporting government sponsor objectives.

Responsibilities

• Identify potential licensees in the defense industrial base, large industry leaders, small businesses, and spinout/startup companies
• Evaluate the commercial potential and value proposition of intellectual property assets, including patents, software, and other technology assets in the context of industry trends and partner business goals
• Participate in the negotiation and execution of license agreements and related technology transfer agreements under the guidance of senior staff as appropriate
• Understand technology sensitivities as it relates to national security classification and export control and respond accordingly in license negotiation/execution
• Work collaboratively with the IP management team to understand available assets and provide feedback on patent prosecution/IP protection strategy based on licensee needs and progress
• Work with collaborative research contracting team to ensure strategic alignment of sponsored research agreements and parallel/future licensing transactions
• Collaborate with the marketing/business development functions to maximize effectiveness of outreach
• Develop and maintain productive relationships with MIT campus technology licensing office staff to ensure effective information exchange, co-management strategies of overlapping cases, and best practices for licensing under MIT policies
• Manage a diverse portfolio of cases, strategizing a variety of licensing approaches (express licensing, exclusive/non-exclusive licensing, open-source, etc.) for commercialization in alignment with government sponsor and national security goals

Requirements

• Minimum of a B.S. in Physical Sciences, with preference given to candidates with degrees in Electrical Engineering or related field
• An advanced technical degree is preferred, although not required
• Approximately 2–5 years of relevant professional experience in engineering, technology commercialization, intellectual property, product management, business development, research administration, technology transfer, or a related field
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities, exercise sound judgment, and work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills with careful attention to detail
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to interact effectively with researchers, attorneys, government sponsors, and industry representatives
• Experience with intellectual property, licensing, contracts, or commercialization activities is preferred but not required
• Familiarity with federal research environments, government technology transfer, or national security technologies is desirable
• U.S. citizenship required
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance

Pay

Hiring range: $99,300 - $131,600 (base salary only; final salary depends on experience, skills, education, internal equity, and applicable legal requirements).

Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans
• MIT-funded pension
• Matching 401K
• Paid leave (vacation, sick, parental, military, etc.)
• Tuition reimbursement and continuing education programs
• Mentorship programs
• A range of work-life balance options
• Additional voluntary benefits, discounts, and perks available to MIT employees