- Annual base salary from $122,628 - $136,449 per annum (HEW Level 8) + 17% superannuation and annual leave loading
- Full-time, continuing role
- Hybrid working based Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde
Macquarie University is looking for a Commercialisation Associate to join the Macquarie Commercialisation team within the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) portfolio. This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in translating cutting-edge intellectual property into tangible outcomes that benefit communities, industries, and the world.
In this role, you'll work at the intersection of science, business, and law — assessing the commercial potential of university-generated IP, structuring deals, engaging with investors and industry partners, and helping foster an entrepreneurial culture across the University. You'll collaborate with researchers, legal professionals, and external partners to move ideas from the lab to the marketplace.
This role offers the chance to make a meaningful difference at one of Australia's most forward-thinking universities.
About the Role
Reporting to the Director, Commercialisation, you will manage a portfolio of commercialisation activities — from pipeline development and opportunity identification through to IP protection and deal closure . Key responsibilities include:
Supporting the development and implementation of strategic commercialisation initiatives alongside the Director of Commercialisation
Assessing the technical and commercial viability of Macquarie-generated IP, providing clear recommendations and pathways for commercialisation
Conducting commercially oriented due diligence to determine legal rights, ownership, entitlements, and third-party obligations
Assisting in negotiations, deal structuring, and closing agreements aligned with Macquarie's ambition to be the partner of choice for industry
Providing IP and commercial advice to Research Innovation & Enterprise teams to support negotiation of industry-sponsored research agreements
Marketing and promoting University capabilities and technologies to investment partners, industry, and external stakeholders at relevant conferences
Contributing to the IP Commercialisation Advisory Committee (IPCAC) and nurturing an entrepreneurial culture by building strong relationships with a wide variety of stakeholders
You will work closely with internal teams including Macquarie Partnerships, the Macquarie Incubator, General Counsel, and Faculty leadership, as well as external stakeholders including patent attorneys, investors, licensees, government agencies, and research institutes.
About Us
The Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) portfolio is responsible for the strategic enhancement of Macquarie University's research, research training, and innovation profile. It drives research strategy across the institution, spanning higher degree research, grant schemes, research collaboration agreements, commercialisation, intellectual property, and entrepreneurship. The Macquarie Commercialisation team, led by the Director of Commercialisation, creates real-world impact through the translation of Macquarie IP. The team assists creators in identifying the value of their IP, confirming ownership, determining protection and commercialisation strategies, and negotiating agreements with partners. They also champion innovation and entrepreneurial culture through educational workshops and expert advice for University staff and students.
About You
You are a commercially astute professional with a strong understanding of intellectual property and technology commercialisation. You bring a blend of technical knowledge, business acumen, and relationship-building skills, and you are comfortable navigating complex stakeholder environments. You are proactive, collaborative, and motivated by the prospect of turning research breakthroughs into real-world outcomes.
Selection Criteria:
Tertiary qualifications in a relevant discipline, with postgraduate qualifications in a relevant scientific discipline highly desirable
Demonstrated experience in intellectual property management, technology commercialisation, and deal structuring
Experience conducting technical, IP, commercial, and legal due diligence, including prior art searches and market analyses
Proven ability to collect and analyse complex technical, market, and legal data to develop robust business cases for commercialisation opportunities
Strong networks and links with industry, research bodies, government authorities, and the investment community relevant to IP commercialisation
Exceptional oral and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with a broad range of individuals, groups, and organisations
Demonstrated ability to build and maintain positive relationships across all levels of an organisation and work collaboratively in a complex, high-volume environment with multiple stakeholders
Priority will be given to those applicants having experience working in a similar role in a University or research organisation.
How to Apply
To be considered, please apply online with your CV and a cover letter outlining how your experience aligns with the selection criteria (above).
Applications Close: 14 June 2026
We reserve the right to progress or decline an application prior to the application closing date.
For enquiries, or a confidential conversation about the role please contact Kathryn Sunn, Director, Commercialisation, Research Innovation & Enterprise at [email protected]
Why Join Us?
Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives. Since our foundation over 60 years ago, we have aspired to be a different type of university. Over the years, we have grown to become the centre of a vibrant local and global community. Connect with us today. We rank amongst the top employers in the Australian Workplace Employers Index. Discover our benefits on offer when you work at Macquarie University.
Flexible, hybrid work arrangements
17% Superannuation
Subsidised onsite parking options
Extensive training and professional development programs
Onsite childcare facilities to support working parents
Onsite vacation care during school holidays
Discounted health insurance
Subsidised membership at our Sport & Aquatic Centre
Access to an Employee Assistance Program for free and confidential support
Convenient onsite GP, imaging, and physiotherapy clinics
Pre-Employment Checks
Macquarie University cultivates a workplace defined by safety, ethical conduct, and strong integrity. Prior to completion of an offer of employment, preferred candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre-employment checks relevant to the role they have applied for. Your employment is conditional upon the completion and maintenance of all role-required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University.
If you're already part of the Macquarie Group (MQ University, U@MQ, MQ Health, MGSM), you'll need to apply through your employee Workday account.
Applications Close:
14/06/2026 11:59 PM
A Place Where You Belong
At Macquarie, we believe diversity makes us stronger, inclusion drives our success, and belonging inspires us to do our best work. We are proud to foster a community where different backgrounds, identities, and experiences are valued, and where our people are empowered to thrive through supportive leadership, shared responsibility, and a deep commitment to genuine care and respect for our community. Find out more about our vision for a truly inclusive workplace in our Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Framework.
Flexible Work
At Macquarie, we believe by providing flexibility in when, where and how work is done, we can support our staff to manage their personal commitments, while optimising their work performance and contributions to the University.
