Business Development Manager - Computational Social Science Lab - Penn Engineering

Business Development Manager
- Computational Social Science Lab
- Penn Engineering

(Job Profile

Title:

Manager Research Project

B)

The Computational Social Science Lab (CSSLab) at the University of Pennsylvania is a pioneering interdisciplinary research lab dedicated to applying computational methods and large-scale data to some of the most pressing challenges facing society. Founded and led by Duncan Watts, the CSSLab is producing research and building tools with the potential to reshape how the public, policymakers, and institutions understand and engage with information.

The Business Development Manager will play a central role in bringing the CSSLab’s groundbreaking research into the world, translating academic innovation into real-world impact through strategic commercialization and partnership development.

The Business Development Manager (BDM) is responsible for driving the commercialization and market adoption of the CSSLab research efforts. The BDM develops and implements strategic business development plans, identifies and cultivates relationships with partners across industry, policy, and research sectors, leads go‑to‑market strategy, manages pitch materials and proposals, oversees sponsorship and outreach activities, and collaborates with university departments to build sustainable partnerships and revenue streams.

• Develop and regularly review strategic business development plans; maintain a pipeline and tracking system to monitor opportunities, forecast targets, and measure progress.
• Identify and cultivate partnership opportunities; negotiate and complete licensing agreements, sponsored research contracts, and data access partnerships; manage outreach contacts and mailing lists.
• Lead go‑to‑market strategy development and execution, including market research, target list building, and creation of pitch materials, proposals, and RFP responses.
• Represent the lab at conferences, events, and meetings, serving as the market‑facing ambassador to mobilize commercialization efforts.
• Coordinate internal stakeholder communication across university offices, aligning priorities and advancing business development efforts.

Note: The Manager Research Project C will work with a greater degree of independence and autonomy in carrying out responsibilities.

Manager Research Project B: Bachelor’s degree and 5‑7 years of experience in business development, technology commercialization, partnerships, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Demonstrated experience developing and executing strategic plans, managing complex multi‑stakeholder relationships, and drafting pitch materials and partnership agreements. Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.

Experience with in academic, research, or mission‑driven organizations is a plus; familiarity with licensing agreements, sponsored research contracts, or data access partnerships preferred.

Manager Research Project C: Master’s degree (MBA preferred) and 5‑7 years of experience in business development, technology commercialization, partnerships, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. In addition to the qualifications listed above for the Manager Research Project B, must be self‑directed with the ability to perform all duties with a high degree of independence and autonomy.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

School of Engineering and Applied Science

$66,000.00 – $ Annual Rate

The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin (including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics), citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any class protected under applicable federal, state or local law.

Background checks may be required after a conditional job offer is made. Consideration of the background check will be tailored to the requirements of the job.