Intellectual Property Manager (Fixed-term, Maternity cover)

Founded in 1837, the Royal College of Art is the world’s largest community of postgraduate art and design students. It is also the oldest art and design university in continuous operation and has been ranked as the world’s number one art and design university for a remarkable nine consecutive years, according to the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023 – the worldwide survey of academic and industry opinion.

We are currently seeking applications for the role of Intellectual Property Manager on a fixed-term contract to cover a maternity leave.

The Intellectual Property Manager plays a pivotal role as the College’s primary authority on intellectual property (IP) matters, aiming to optimize returns on IP generated within the College and its student community. Responsibilities include delivering IP training to teaching and research staff, as well as students; evaluating IP stemming from technology, designs, and processes developed at the RCA; leading IP protection efforts; advising and supporting students and staff on IP ownership and exploitation in agreements with external parties; managing IP disputes; establishing a network of business support for external IP development activities; and fostering an internal culture of IP awareness.

This role demands a deep understanding and experience in handling legal agreements. Given the College’s innovative environment and the substantial number of patentable inventions produced annually, the position necessitates significant engagement with students and the ability to simplify complex patent matters. Strong interpersonal skills are essential for effective communication in this dynamic environment.

Please see Information Pack for further details.

The Royal College of Art (RCA)  aims to foster an inclusive culture which promotes equality, values diversity and maintains a working, learning and social environment in which the rights and dignity of all its staff and students and stakeholders are respected. 

We recognise the broad range of experiences that a diverse staff and student body brings and how this  strengthens our research and enhances our teaching. In order for RCA to remain a world-leading institution we are committed to promoting equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) principles throughout all of our processes, from application through to appointment.

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