Licensing & Ventures Associate - Physical Sciences

• Are you passionate about creating global impact from world leading University research?
• Would you like to join a supportive team of outstanding people who help bring great Oxford ideas to life?
• Do you have a technical or commercial background in any of the Physical Sciences?

- Fixed Term contract through to 31st May 2027

We’re the innovation partner of the University of Oxford, using our commercial expertise to turn academic knowledge and research into real-world applications to build a better future.

We bring together people with deep experience and broad expertise across research, business, investment and public impact. Most of our teams work closely with University of Oxford researchers and staff – using their specialist knowledge to help ideas travel from early thinking to innovation-led impact – while others make sure OUI runs smoothly and sustainably.

From the earliest spark of an idea through to investment and ultimate impact, we provide the expertise, support and connections needed at every stage of the journey.

The successful candidate will join a talented and supportive team within our Licensing & Ventures Group and will focus on assisting the commercialisation of technologies arising from across the University, primarily the mathematical, physical and engineering sciences
. The Licensing & Ventures Associate will obtain a broad introduction into technology transfer activities, including an understanding of licensing intellectual property.

The key responsibilities of the role are:

• Undertaking market research and analysis to enable commercially viable deals to be completed.
• Supporting project managers by marketing technologies to potential end-users in industry and helping to create compelling business cases for spin-out companies.
• Managing project administration and supporting the Licensing & Ventures Managers in project work.

The successful candidate will have a 1st class or upper second-class degree in a Physical Sciences or Engineering domain, with experience of working in a related research or commercial environment. They will also possess enthusiasm, positivity, and an appetite for learning and personal development, alongside a desire to achieve results. Additional qualifications such as a PhD or MBA are advantageous, although not essential.

• The ability to grasp challenging technical concepts quickly.
• Degree qualified (ideally 2.1 or 1st class honours) in a Physical Sciences or Engineering related field (Physics, Mathematics or Computer Science a plus).
• Excellent interpersonal, relationship management and team working skills, as well as strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Working successfully and collaboratively within a team.
• Strong organisational skills that allow effective management and prioritisation of a wide range of tasks within a process-driven environment.
• Making considered recommendations that demonstrate sound judgement and good analysis.
• Listening effectively to colleagues and stakeholders, learning quickly, accepting constructive feedback and putting it into practice.

To apply for this role, please download the Application Form from the Oxford University Innovation website careers page:  and send together with a copy of your CV and covering letter (quoting . 291 and you preferred pronouns) to Roy Bennett at

The closing date is midday on Friday 26th June 2026.

Information about the benefits and working life at OUI can be found here:

Feel free also to contact Roy via his email if you have any queries before applying.

Salary for this role is £36,000 per annum on a fixed term contract to 31st May 2027 with excellent pro rata benefits including 30 days holiday & 8 bank holidays, rewards scheme, career opportunities, generous pension, private medical insurance and 50/50 hybrid working.

Oxford University Innovation is an Equal Opportunities Employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive culture which promotes equality, values diversity and maintains a supportive working, learning and social environment, in which the rights and dignity…