Reporting to the Senior Technology Development Manager, the Technology Development Specialist (TDS) is required to identify promising technologies and drive the development of innovative products from the intellectual assets of KAUST researchers through the application of translational grants or other funding streams.

The TDS will be responsible for developing and increasing the number of products and services within their technology development portfolio. 

As part of the Technology Development Team, the TDS will work closely with other members of the Technology Transfer Office (TTO) to achieve the objectives of the Office of Innovation and Economic Development for the benefit of KAUST and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Major Responsabilities

• Scouting, identifying and developing technologies that will enable KAUST to contribute to the diversification of the Saudi Arabian economy.
• Working with the Senior Technology Development Manager and Director of Technology Transfer to identify opportunities to establish deep-tech start-up companies and licensing opportunities for existing Saudi Arabian and International corporations
• Work with KAUST Faculty to scout and prepare new Technology Development Roadmaps Development of translational grant applications in collaboration with members of KAUST faculty and staff
• Creates awareness of technology development programs. Responsible for a number of projects including progress tracking, updates and status reporting.
• Works as part of the multi-disciplinary technology development team and provides support to the Senior Technology Development Manager as required.
• Applies knowledge to support the development of proposals and estimates for new technology projects.
• Operates in adherence to established technology development processes, such as a standardized gate process and other required design and development procedures.
• This position will focus on the development of technology demonstrations in defined areas and deciding, with input from the Senior Technology Development Manager, go/no go on starting further systematic development.
• Applies knowledge to map KAUST technical strengths (Research, Development & Prototype Development) and share these with managers.
• Works with external contractors to deliver rapid technology development deliverables in accordance with the Technology Development Roadmap
• Uses knowledge and experience of business needs to translate research outcomes into research translation projects.
• Can communicate the impact of translational projects and tools effectively to peers in other functional areas. Supports I&ED’s activities to interface with Industry with the goal of identifying opportunities in targeted fields.
• Applies knowledge to identify opportunities for new platform technology development by providing a concise technical and business overview with potential impacts to the KAUST business.
• Provides knowledge to assist in the review of invention disclosures.  

Competencies

The individual selected must show a history and ability of interacting effectively with persons within the university setting as well as key stakeholders outside the university.

Selected person should demonstrate following capabilities:

• Strong understanding of the academic research environment
• Experience working with early stage technologies and companies
• Understanding of intellectual property protection and monetization
• Capable of building strategic working relationships
• Technical knowledge and skills, particularly of product development
• Business acumen including project planning and organizing
• Communication (internal and external)
• Experience in accelerating technology from concept to market.
• Demonstrated success in more than one industry.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with strong partner focus
• Excellent project management skills with strong attention to detail
• Ability to meet time sensitive deadlines
• Ability to adapt to a changing environment
• Demonstrated problem solving skills.
• Highly motivated with the ability to work independently and as part of a team  

Education

• MS degree in science or engineering.
• At least 3 years’ experience in a similar role
• Registered Technology Transfer Professional (RTTP) preferred but not essential