The University for Development Studies, UDS, invites applications from experienced, results-oriented and highly motivated individuals for the position of Intellectual Property Officer for existing UDS staff only.
Details are as follows:

Job Advertisement: Intellectual Property Officer
Position: Intellectual Property Officer
Location: University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana
Application Deadline: 17th May 2024

Key Responsibilities

Job Summary: 
The Intellectual Property Officer (IPO), University for Development Studies will be responsible for managing and protecting the intellectual property (IP) assets generated within the University. The IPO will work closely with the university community thus faculty, researchers, students, and its external stakeholders to identify, protect, and commercialise IP, and in so doing, contribute to the advancement of knowledge, innovation, and economic development in Ghana and beyond.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Supervise the identification, assessment, and protection of IP assets originating from research, innovation, and creative endeavours conducted by the university community.
2. Oversee the patent and copyright application process, thus drafting patent specifications, coordinating with external legal advisors, and ensuring compliance with intellectual property laws and regulations in Ghana.
3. Develop and implement strategies for the commercialisation of the University Intellectual Property (UIP), including negotiating licensing agreements, partnerships, as well as technology transfer agreements with both local and international organisations.
4. Develop, implement, and enforce university policies and procedures related to intellectual property management, considering the specific legal and cultural context of Ghana.
5. Offer guidance, training, and relevant educational resources to the university especially, staff, and students on intellectual property rights, policies, and best practices to promote a culture of innovation and compliance.
6. Monitor and enforce compliance with intellectual property policies, agreements, and regulations, as well as address breaches or misuse.
7. Conduct market analysis to identify potential commercialisation opportunities for UIP within the Ghanaian and global markets. Promote collaborations with industries, government agencies, and international partners to accelerate technology transfer and knowledge exchange.
8. Ensure accurate records of all IP assets, transactions, and agreements are maintained, and prepare reports for UDS management, funding agencies, and other stakeholders as required.
9. Stay updated on developments in intellectual property law, technology transfer practices, and industry trends relevant to the Ghanaian context, and integrate new knowledge into UIP management strategies.
10. Uphold ethical standards, integrity, and confidentiality in all aspects of intellectual property management and decision-making processes.

Qualifications 

1. Be a Senior Member, has a minimum of Research Masters in the University in relevant field of law, business, science, engineering or related field (preferably with LLB, MBA, PhD) at the time of application.
2. Experience in IP management, technology transfer, or related fields, preferably in a Ghanaian higher education or research sector.
3. Knowledge of Ghanaian IP laws and regulations, as well as international IP frameworks and best practices.
4. Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
5. Analytical and strategic thinking abilities, with a keen business acumen and the capacity to identify and pursue opportunities for intellectual property commercialization.
6. Proficiency in relevant software applications, IP management and database systems is an added advantage.
7. Passion for promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, through utilisation of UIP assets.
8. Commitment to ethical conduct, integrity, and confidentiality in handling sensitive intellectual property matters.

Application Process
Interested candidates should submit softcpies of a Cover letter together with the following documents below, addressed to the Registrar, via the email address registrar@uds.edu.gh. Candidates are also required to submit hard copies of their application documents to the address below, not later than 17th May 2024:

1. Curriculum vitae (CV)
2. Cover letter addressing the applicant's qualifications and interest in the position
3. Contact information for three professional references

The Registrar,
University for Development Studies,
P.O. Box TL 1350,
Tamale, Northern Region, Ghana.