Valorisation Manager for the IOF consortium IMARK, IOF platform for image-based biomarkers

In the context of the support for basic and applied research provided by the Industrial Research Fund AUHA (IOF), the Association University & Colleges of Antwerp (AUHA) is looking for a full-time (m/f) Valorisation Manager for the IOF consortium IMARK, IOF platform for image-based biomarkers.

About IMARK

IMARK (https://www.uantwerpen.be/en/research-groups/imark/) capitalizes on the deeply rooted expertise in biomedical imaging at the University of Antwerp to push the boundaries of precision medicine. Its’ aim is to expedite biomarker discovery and development by relating molecular and structural patterns to disease development in space and time. To this end, IMARK unites research groups with complementary knowledge and tools that cover all aspects of imaging-centred fundamental research, preclinical validation, and clinical evaluation. It harbours high-end infrastructure for electron and light microscopy, mass spectrometry imaging, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, positron emission tomography and single-photon emission computed tomography. IMARK members actively develop correlative approaches that involve multiple imaging modalities to enrich information content, and conceive dedicated image analysis pipelines to obtain robust, quantitative readouts from relevant biological models. This unique blend of technologies results in a flourishing IP portfolio and ample valorisation opportunities. The major application fields of the consortium are neuroscience and oncology. There is a long-standing track record of public-private collaborations and spin-off initiatives. And, with partners from the Antwerp University Hospital and University Psychiatric Centre Duffel, there is direct access to patient data/samples and potential for translational studies.

 Job description

As Valorisation Manager, you help translating scientific breakthroughs in the field of biological imaging (advanced microscopy, MRI, PET…) to industrial and societally relevant applications. To this end, you consolidate existing expertise and support business development and outreach activities that enable the consortium to extend its interaction with industry. As valorisation manager you are responsible for:

• Definition of a harmonized communication and promotion strategy

• Identification and follow-up of technological innovations within the consortium

• Definition of valorization and IP strategies of promising technologies and research findings

• Leading negotiations and formalization of collaboration with industry

• Build-up and maintenance of industrial and scientific network and consortia

• Development of business plans for IMARK service activities (e.g., related to core facilities)

• Organization of outreach events

In summary, your efforts should be focused on industrial valorisation of innovative research results and technologies obtained within the consortium aiming to contribute to the IOF-parameters of the University of Antwerp, industrial income, EU-projects, patents and spin-off creation.

Profile and requirements

• Preferably you are holder of a doctoral degree in the domain of the IOF consortium. If not, you have at least 5 years of relevant expertise related to at least one of these research domains:  

  • Biomedical imaging (microscopy, in vivo small animal MRI and PET imaging, clinical imaging)

  • Biomedical research (oncology, neurology)

• You possess strong management, organisation and communication skills.

• You have a strong entrepreneurial spirit and have the necessary communication and administrative skills and experience with contract negotiations.

• Relevant work experience in both academic and industrial research is a strong asset.

• Experience in attracting external research from the business world and government in the field of basic and applied research at both national and international level is recommended.

• Experience in attracting external research funding from the private and public sector in the domain of applied research on national as well as international level is desirable.

• Knowledge of technology transfer processes needed to valorise academic research results and available lab technology as well as experience in managing a broad project portfolio is an asset.

• Experience with EC projects and the related administration is an advantage.

• You are quality-oriented, conscientious, creative, and cooperative.

We offer:

• A position at the interface of academy and industry

• A permanent contract, depending on a positive evaluation.

• A full-time gross monthly salary depending on your academic qualifications and professional experience varying from postdoc to lecturer (junior profile) or senior lecturer to full professor (senior profile). The salary scales can be consulted here.

• A dynamic and stimulating work environment.

• Flexible working hours.

• 40 days of holiday.

• Reimbursement of public transport for home-work travel;

• Bicycle allowance.

• Expected Start date: as soon as possible

Interested?

• You can apply for this vacancy through the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform until April 25, 2023. Click on 'apply', complete the online application form and don’t forget to include the following document(s): (1) a motivation letter and (2) your CV.

• The selection committee will review all of the applications as soon as possible after the application deadline. As soon as a decision has been made, we will inform you about the next steps in the selection procedure. Please make a note of the following dates: May 10, 2023, in the afternoon.

• If you have any questions about the online application form, please check the frequently asked questions or send an email to jobs@uantwerpen.be.

• More information regarding the IOF can be obtained from Jurgen Joossens (tel. +32-3-265-30-25, Jurgen.Joossens@uantwerpen.be);

• For questions about the profile and the description of duties, please contact the heads of the consortium: winnok.devos@uantwerpen.be

The University of Antwerp is a sustainable, family-friendly organisation which invests in its employees’ growth. We encourage diversity and pay attention to an inclusive working environment and equal opportunities, regardless of gender identity, disability, race, ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation or age. We encourage people from diverse backgrounds and with diverse characteristics to apply.