Business Development Manager

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join the Wyss Institute at Harvard University?

The Wyss Institute’s mission is to transform healthcare and the environment by emulating the way nature builds. We harness the imagination of academia and the focus of industry to translate ground-breaking technologies into commercial products that solve big problems. We support research that universities, companies, and venture capital firms don’t fund because they view it as too risky.  We prefer to use the word “challenging,” and we love challenges. For more information discover our technologies, catch up on our recent news, or watch our latest videos.

About You:

You are a collaborative, impact-focused problem solver who wants to be part of a dynamic team dedicated to supporting the commercialization of novel approaches to global challenges in healthcare and sustainability. You want the freedom to explore, to push the boundaries of what is possible, and to use your ambition to tackle challenging projects in a fast-paced, industry-focused environment. You enjoy working with diverse groups of people and leveraging your expertise to help get innovations that can change the world out of the lab and into the market.

About the Role:

We are looking for a talented individual to join our community as a Business Development Manager. Reporting to the Senior Business Development Director,- Commercialization, you will provide high-level support for the Institute's fast-paced business development activities by supporting startup formation, sponsored research and collaborations, licensing, and alliance management activities.

What you'll do: 

• Collaborate with scientific teams to understand their business needs. Create presentations to pitch new technology to potential collaborators and investors.
• Independently evaluate business opportunities and conduct in-depth market research and prepare reports and briefing packages with actionable insights.
• Solicit investor and industry feedback regarding technology development needs, required evidence and experiments, commercial needs and related fundraising.
• Support and execute deals (e.g., industrial sponsored research agreements, options, licenses) to contribute to the Business Development team and individual goals.
• Help manage projects associated with contract research organizations and alliances to facilitate completion of deliverables.
• Triage and manage information requests from external stakeholders and qualify stakeholders. Maintain the Institute’s Business Development databases.
• Provide support to Senior Business Development Director- Commercialization

A cover letter is required to be considered for this opportunity.

What you’ll need:

• Bachelor’s degree required in Biology, Synthetic Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering or equivalent OR a Bachelor’s degree in Business
• A minimum of 5 years’ experience working with business development or technology translation required. Advanced Degree may count towards years of experience.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• MBA or advanced degree in biology, synthetic biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering or equivalent strongly preferred.
• Experience working in both technology translation and the scientific community strongly preferred.
• Experience working in healthcare or strategic management consulting firm preferred. Excellent interpersonal and engagement skills.
• Highly motivated to tackle multiple projects in a dynamic team environment Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills with a creative, entrepreneurial mindset.
• Demonstrates a high degree of discretion dealing with confidential information. A general understanding of intellectual property, business acumen and legal agreements required.

• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education

Why you’ll like working with us:

At the Wyss Institute, you’re a member of a supportive, dynamic community that is united by its shared goal of changing the world through groundbreaking technology development and commercialization. We encourage your professional growth and development through mentorship and tuition reimbursement to support continued learning, and more. We also support your physical, financial, and mental well-being through generous time off benefits, gym reimbursements, and other programs offered through Harvard. Our facility is located in a new, state-of-the-art life sciences building in the lively Fenway neighborhood, where you have access to multiple amenities including a roof top terrace with stunning views of Boston and proximity to numerous restaurants and cultural attractions.  We value an inclusive and diverse workforce, and believe that our differences enrich the work environment for all.

Not ready to apply? Join our talent community by using this link here. 

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Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 057. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges  to view the corresponding salary range and related information. 

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: 

• Generous paid time off including parental leave 
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one 
• Retirement plans with university contributions 
• Wellbeing and mental health resources 
• Support for families and caregivers 
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement 
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks 

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page. 

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.