Licensing Associate – Life Sciences

Job Description

Edinburgh Innovations is the University of Edinburgh’s central commercialisation services function, supporting research commercialisation, intellectual property management, and engagement with industry partners. Working in close partnership with academic colleagues, we help protect and translate research outputs to deliver economic and societal impact.

We are seeking a Life Sciences Licensing Associate to support the commercialisation of world leading life sciences and biomedical research from the University of Edinburgh. Working closely with Technology Transfer Managers (TTMs), academic inventors, and patent agents, you will contribute to the evaluation, protection, and commercial development of intellectual property. You will play a key role in activities such as IP disclosure evaluation, due diligence, patentability assessment, market analysis, and early marketing of technologies to potential licensees.

This is a varied and fast paced role suited to someone with a strong interest in life sciences commercialisation and the ability to manage multiple workstreams with confidence and independence.

This post is full time (35 hours per week); we welcome applications from candidates seeking part time hours or flexible working patterns. We also support hybrid working on a non contractual basis, offering a blend of home and on site working to help you balance work and life effectively.

The salary for this post is Grade 7 £39,234 to £48,136 per annum.

Experience and qualities we are looking for

• A degree in Life Sciences, Chemistry, Biomedical or Medical Sciences, or a closely related discipline.
• Knowledge of technology transfer, or experience gained within a commercial or innovation focused environment, together with an understanding of intellectual property management, patenting processes, and commercial due diligence.
• Strong organisational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple opportunities simultaneously, while maintaining a proactive customer focus.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with confidence working with academic researchers and commercial partners.

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About Us

At Edinburgh Innovations (EI), our culture is built on three core values: Collaborative, Progressive and Innovative. We believe the best results come from working together, sharing ideas, and supporting one another. We’re always looking forward, embracing change, challenging assumptions, and pushing boundaries to grow. Innovation is at the heart of what we do, encouraging creativity and fresh thinking at every level of the business.

If you thrive in a team driven environment that values bold ideas and continuous improvement, you’ll fit right in.

Championing Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We’re committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. At EI we celebrate diversity in all its forms and actively seek to create a team that reflects the communities around us. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities because different perspectives make us stronger.

Benefits

• A competitive salary that reflects your skills and experience.
• An exciting, positive, and creative workplace that’s as rewarding as it is challenging.
• A generous 40 days of combined annual leave and public holiday entitlement.
• A comprehensive benefits package, including a defined contribution pension scheme (currently 3.5/4.5% employee and 9/14.5% employer contributions), family friendly policies, flexible working options, and more.
• Ongoing support to develop your skills, grow your career, and recognise your achievements.

About You

• You work well with others, build strong relationships, and believe that teamwork drives better outcomes.
• You’re curious, creative, and not afraid to challenge the norm to find smarter solutions.
• You take responsibility for your work, follow through on commitments, and are driven to deliver results.
• You seek feedback, grow from experiences, and are always looking to improve.
• You genuinely care about the impact of your work on colleagues, customers, and the wider community.

If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.

Application Information

Please submit your CV along with a covering letter that tells us why you’re interested in the role and how your skills and experience make you a strong fit.

Right to Work

All applicants must have right to work in the UK at the time of application. Unfortunately, we are not able to offer sponsorship for this role. You will be required to provide documentation as part of the recruitment process to confirm your eligibility to work in the UK.

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