PIXEurope Pilot Line Exploitation and Innovation Manager

ICFO is a leading research center in the field of photonics, dedicated to advancing the science and technology of light and its applications. Located in the Mediterranean Technology Park in the metropolitan area of Barcelona, ICFO is at the forefront of groundbreaking research and innovation in areas such as quantum technologies, biophotonics, clean tech, and photonic integrated circuits. ICFO employs 500 people, including researchers, PhD students and staff personnel. In its area of specialization and category, the institute is consistently ranked among the highest-quality research institutions worldwide. Our mission is to contribute to scientific knowledge, foster technology transfer, educate of graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, and promote the responsible engagement of science in society. POSITION OVERVIEW As part of the PICs@ICFO Strategic Initiative , ICFO coordinates PIXEurope, a flagship Pilot Line funded under the European Chips JU program . With €400 million in investments and a consortium of 20 partners across 11 countries, the project aims to reinforce Europe's strategic autonomy in photonic technologies and accelerate industrial uptake of cutting-edge integrated photonics. Over the next decade, PIXEurope will enable the transfer of advanced technologies to manufacturing environments, while fostering innovation and scalability across the European photonics ecosystem. ICFO is seeking a driven, deep-tech enthusiast with strong business acumen to join ICFO’s Knowledge and Technology Transfer (KTT) Team as the Exploitation and Innovation Manager of PIXEurope. This strategic role will be pivotal in steering PIXEurope’s innovation and exploitation activities, engaging stakeholders across academia, industry, and policy. MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES The selected candidate will be expected to: Support the Pilot Line Director in the ongoing monitoring, benchmarking, reporting, and promotion of project outcomes relevant to exploitation and innovation . Lead the management of intellectual property (IP) generated within the pilot line: including invention disclosures, patent filings, proactive engineering of IP packages, licensing strategies, IP landscaping, and the negotiation of IP rights. Act as the primary liaison with all project partners´TTOs for exploitation activities . Assess the market potential of the pilot line's technologies and IP portfolio, identifying emerging market needs, target users, and promising applications. Proactively engage with technology end-users and industry players to build strategic partnerships and foster adoption of PIXEurope innovations. Maintain a comprehensive overview of innovation activities across the consortium, ensuring alignment with Chips JU guidelines on IP protection, open access, and exploitation. As part of the Pilot Line Coordination and Management Team, collaborate with other management roles (e.g., Open Access, Data Management and Gateway) to strengthen the project’s open-access strategy and innovation ecosystem, working closely with the Pilot Line Steering Committee. Support ICFO’s coordination and PIXEurope’s PIC leadership through interaction with project partners, stakeholders, and relevant EU institutions . REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFICATIONS We are looking for candidates with the following profile: A degree in science or engineering (physics, chemistry, photonics, or related disciplines highly valued). A minimum of 3 years of experience in innovation and exploitation management, preferably within EU-funded research and innovation projects . Experience in large-scale, multi-partner projects or pilot lines is an asset. Solid knowledge of photonics and/or related technology sectors. Familiarity with the Photonics Integrated Circuit (PIC) industry and its key players is highly advantageous. Proven ability to lead and implement innovation strategies , engage with industry, and drive technology transfer. Strong communication skills in English (written and spoken); proficiency in Catalan and/or Spanish is a plus. A self-starter with a collaborative spirit, capable of managing complex tasks and relationships in a dynamic international environment. WHAT WE OFFER Indefinite contract for scientific and technical activities pursuant to Spanish Law 14/2011, linked to the duration of the Pilot Line initiative. A unique opportunity to shape and drive a high-impact European initiative at the forefront of photonic innovation. Integration into a vibrant, international, and multidisciplinary environment at ICFO. Integration into ICFO’s vibrant, multidisciplinary, and international research community . A strategic position in a project that will define the future of European photonics . A competitive salary according to ICFO’s internal scales and a family allowance, if applicable, in line with institutional policy. This position will be dedicated full time to the European Chips JU Pilot Line project PIXEurope directed by Prof. Dr. Valerio Pruneri within the KTT ICFO’s operational team . APPLICATION PROCESS Interested candidates should submit a CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience and motivation for the position. The call will remain open until August 6, 2025. Selection will include a pre-screening of applicants based on eligibility and experience, followed by interviews with shortlisted candidates. ICFO is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. For updated information about ICFO, please visit htps://www.icfo.eu For technical or scientific inquiries related to the position, please contact: valerio.pruneri@icfo.eu For questions about the application process, please contact: jobs@icfo.eu This contract has received funding from the European Union's Horizon Europe under the Grant Agreement 101213727, Chips Joint Undertaking (Chips JU) and the Spanish Ministry for Digital Transformation and Civil Service, and is supported by funds from the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan (PRTR).

Location: Castelldefels, Catalonia, ES

Posted Date: 8/5/2025