Manager of Biological Science
University of Antwerp
Belgium

Department: Valorisation Office
Regime Full-time

Let’s shape the future - University of Antwerp

The University of Antwerp is a dynamic, forward-thinking, European university. We offer an innovative academic education to more than 20000 students, conduct pioneering scientific research and play an important service-providing role in society. We are one of the largest, most international and most innovative employers in the region. With more than 6000 employees from 100 different countries, we are helping to build tomorrow's world every day. Through top scientific research, we push back boundaries and set a course for the future – a future that you can help to shape. 

In the framework of its Industrial Research Fund (IOF) in support of applied research, the University of Antwerp currently has a full-time position (m/f)

IOF Valorisation Manager for 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 pipelines that involve multiple imaging modalities to enrich information content, and integrate deep learning 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 direct access to patient data/samples and potential for translational studies.

Position

As IOF 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 and implementation 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
• Active contributions to valorization-oriented applications and reporting
• Build-up and maintenance of industrial and scientific network and consortia
• Market analysis and development of business plans for IMARK activities
• Leading negotiations and formalization of collaboration with industry
• You are responsible for your valorisation project within the valorisation team of the University of Antwerp and communicate with the valorisation team, legal IP departments and other experts

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: PhDs (P1), A1 publications and citations (P2), industrial income (P3), income from EU programmes (P4), patents (P5) and spin-offs (P6), with the valorisation manager's deployment mainly situated in P3, P4, P5 and P6

Profile

• A proactive and hands-on attitude
• Preferably you are holder of a doctoral degree in the domain of the research 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, writing and communication skills.
• Relevant work experience in both academic and industrial research is a strong asset.
• 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.

What we offer

• A position at the interface of academy and industry
• An employment contract of indefinite duration, depending on positive evaluations and available budgets, appointed at the University of Antwerp. After 1 year, there is a first evaluation;
• A full-time gross monthly salary of Valorisation Manager with a salary scale for postdoctoral researcher or lecturer, on the pay scales for Contract Research Staff (Dutch: Bijzonder Academisch Personeel, BAP). You can consult the pay scales here ;
• A dynamic and stimulating environment;
• Flexible working hours;
• 40 days of leave per year and closing week between Christmas and New Year;
• Free commuting by public transport;
• Possibility of a bicycle allowance;
• Startdate:  as soon as possible

Want to apply?

• You can apply for this vacancy up to and including February 3, 2025,via the online application platform of the University of Antwerp. Click on the 'Apply' button, complete the online application form and be sure to add the following attachments:
  • a motivation letter
  • your CV
• The selection committee reviews all applications as soon as possible after the application deadline. Once a decision has been made, we will inform you about the next steps in the selection procedure. We ask you to take this date into account in your calendar: February 14, 2025, in the morning.
• If you have any questions about the online application form, you can consult the Frequently Asked Questions or email jobs@uantwerpen.be.
• For information about the IOF, please contact Jurgen Joossens (Tel. 03 265 30 25, Jurgen.Joossens@uantwerpen.be); 
• If you have any questions about the position, please contact Prof. Winnok De Vos, spokesperson of the consortium, (winnok.devos@uantwerpen.be).

The University of Antwerp received the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Award for its HR policy. We are a sustainable, family-friendly organisation which invests in its employees’ growth. We encourage diversity and attach great importance 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.