Applications are invited for appointment as Assistant Director/ Senior Manager (Translational Research and Commercialisation) (at the rank of Assistant Registrar/ Administrative Assistant I) in the Research, Innovation, Strategic Partnerships and Entrepreneurship (RISE) (Ref.: 537089) (to commence as soon as possible, on a two-year fixed-term basis, with the possibility of renewal subject to funding availability and satisfactory performance)
The University seeks a high-calibre, experienced professional to join us as Assistant Director/ Senior Manager, supporting translational research and commercialisation initiatives for the University and its subsidiaries, including R&D centres and partnership programmes, both locally and internationally. The appointee will develop strategic initiatives to advance translational research and commercialisation, leveraging the University’s strengths in life sciences to develop valuable IP assets, formulate commercialisation strategies, and build key partnerships and new ventures. The successful candidate will report to the Associate Vice-President (Research and Innovation) or their delegate and work collaboratively with faculties, units and subsidiaries across the University to foster a vibrant culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.
Key Responsibility
- Develop and implement strategic initiatives to advance translational research, innovation, and commercialisation across the University and its subsidiaries, including R&D centres and partnership programmes.
- Identify, assess, and support high-potential technologies and research outcomes, providing guidance on intellectual property protection, development pathways, and commercialisation opportunities.
- Collaborate closely with academic faculties, researchers, innovators, and industry partners to accelerate the translation of research into societal and economic impact.
- Establish and strengthen strategic partnerships with industry, investors, regulators, government agencies, and international collaborators to create new opportunities for research translation and innovation.
- Negotiate and manage complex agreements related to research collaborations, intellectual property, licensing, venture creation, and strategic partnerships.
- Foster a vibrant innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem by supporting incubation, acceleration, mentorship, and innovation programmes across the University.
- Promote the University's technology portfolio, innovation capabilities, and research strengths to industry leaders, investors, venture capital firms, and strategic partners globally.
Qualifications and Qualities
- Possess a postgraduate degree, preferably a PhD, in a STEM, biomedical, healthcare, engineering, or related discipline; additional qualifications in business, innovation management, entrepreneurship, or intellectual property would be an advantage.
- Have at least 10 years of relevant experience in translational research, technology transfer, research commercialisation, business development, entrepreneurship, and venture investment, particularly within the life sciences or related fields.
- Demonstrate a successful track record of translating research outcomes into commercial or societal impact through licensing, startup formation, industry partnerships, or investment activities.
- Possess strong knowledge of intellectual property management, technology transfer, innovation ecosystems, and commercialisation practices.
- Have substantial experience in developing and managing collaborations with researchers, industry partners, investors, government agencies, and international stakeholders.
- Possess excellent communication, negotiation, stakeholder management, and relationship-building skills.
- Have experience working in Mainland China and international markets, with an understanding of global innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystems.
- Be highly self-motivated, proactive, results-oriented, and capable of managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Possess an excellent command of written and spoken English and Chinese, including Putonghua
Applicants with lower qualifications and/or less experience may be considered for appointment as Senior Manager.
What We Offer
A highly competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience will be offered, in addition to annual leave and medical benefits. The appointment will attract a contract-end gratuity and University contribution to a retirement benefits scheme, totalling up to 15% of basic salary. Housing benefits will be provided, where applicable, for the position of Assistant Director.
How to Apply
The University only accepts online applications for the above post. Applicants should apply online at the University's career site (http://jobs.hku.hk), and upload an up-to-date C.V. Review of applications will start from October 14, 2026 and continue until November 30, 2026, or until the post is filled, whichever is earlier.
