Fellows Program

Fellows work part-time to assist Innovation Partnerships licensing specialists to assess the technical and market potential of new U-M inventions.

Typical projects include:

• Scientific, market, prior art, and patent research and analysis
• Assessing commercial viability of new inventions
• Categorizing inventions into application specific or industry segments
• Technology marketing abstract composition
• Identifying potential licensees or investors

Eligibility and Qualifications

• You must be a current U-M Graduate Student Assistant or Postdoctoral Fellow. Appointment to the Fellows Program is concurrent with full-time status as U-M graduate student or postdoctoral fellow for the full duration of the Fellows Program.
• You must have permission from your thesis adviser to participate in the Fellows Program if you are a graduate student.
• You must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident or have CPT/OPT clearance with your visa to participate in the Program. You are responsible for facilitating any necessary CPT/OPT steps prior to the Program.
• You must be able to commit ten (10) hours per week.
• You are expected to stay in the Fellows Program for at least 12 months.

Selection will be based on:

• Written and oral communication skills
• Scientific/technical background and academic performance
• Enthusiasm and willingness to take on new challenges
• Interest in technology transfer and/or prior experience (if any) in business or commercial environments
• Commitment and availability for up to 10 hours per week for a minimum of 1 year
• Professionalism and adherence to deadlines
• Work authorization to allow this type of appointment

Expectations

Upon hiring, fellows will attend a virtual ½ day orientation and training session followed by at least a 1-year commitment to the program. Hours vary, but projects are designed to be completed in no more than 10 hours on a weekly basis, can be done remotely, and can be completed anytime within the deadline window (typically 1 week). Fellows are expected to have access to a computer and will be provided access to databases and other resources to complete their assignments. Fellows are expected to sign a non-disclosure agreement with the University of Michigan and maintain absolute confidentiality. Pay will range from $16-$18/hour depending on background and experience.

Applicants may submit a cover letter and resume in PDF format via e-mail to Michelle Larkin.

Applicants will be notified by e-mail if they are invited to submit writing samples and interview.