Director, Venture Development

Director Of Venture Development, Ai

Reporting to the Assistant Vice President for Technology Ventures, the Director of Venture Development, AI will play a pivotal role in advancing the commercialization of University of Chicago AI and data science ventures and managing a robust network of relationships with investors. The Director will work closely with University faculty and researchers to evaluate AI and data science research innovations and assess startup potential, provide guidance on commercialization strategies, support preparation for investor engagement, and provide connections to relevant funding, talent, and advice. The Director will act as a critical liaison to the venture capital ecosystem and other investors, cultivating relationships and connecting investors with relevant startups to secure funding and strategic partnerships. The Director will also work closely with partners across campus and colleagues across the Technology Ventures team at the Polsky Center, including in the life sciences and physical sciences venture development verticals, IP and technology development, business licensing and technology marketing, IP compliance, and accelerators and investments. This role leads the identification, investigation, and negotiation of licensing opportunities for permission to use intellectual property rights, including trademarks, patents, or technology. Solves unique and complex problems related to the transfer and use of intellectual property. Provides specialized expertise to faculty to transform ideas and discoveries into patents, licenses, products, services, and ventures.

Responsibilities

• Drives Venture Development team priorities, in close collaboration with partners including the Data Science Institute at the University of Chicago. Sets and executes strategies to support the creation and growth of University researchers' AI and data science ventures, and builds and strengthens relationships with the venture capital and investor ecosystem.
• Works closely with University faculty and researchers to identify and assess commercial potential of new and existing research projects and invention disclosures, in partnership with IP and business development team leadership.
• Works closely with faculty to understand their venture needs, next steps, and provide ongoing proactive coaching.
• Undertakes technical and commercial due-diligence based on input from internal and external stakeholders with the objective of charting a business/commercialization strategy.
• Prepares faculty and their startups for investment diligence, and engages with investors, which may include reviewing and supporting the development of business plans and pitch decks, coaching researchers in presenting ideas to investors, and proactively identifying and facilitating investor meetings.
• Establishes or expands programs to identify and support entrepreneurial talent, mentorship, and early-stage management for AI and data science ventures.
• Builds and cultivates a robust network of venture capitalists, corporate investors, and industry leaders to support funding and strategic partnerships for faculty startups.
• Develops presentation materials and target business case / new opportunity pitches to selected partners.
• Tracks emerging trends in venture capital and areas of University research focus, especially in AI and data science, to inform strategic opportunities for faculty ventures.
• Manages budget and processes to support venture development activities, ensuring seamless coordination between faculty, Polsky staff, and external partners.
• Represents the University as a thought leader in venture development and commercialization for AI and data science.
• Leads the development of intellectual portfolio patenting, licensing, commercialization activities and marketing plans. Contributes to the strategic direction and expansion of new initiatives.
• Uses depth and breadth of knowledge to build strong relationships with inventors, legal counsel, prospective and actual licensees, and colleagues that promote the mission and business of the department.
• Performs other related work as needed.