The Fellows Program at Columbia Technology Ventures offers a unique opportunity for Columbia graduate students to gain in-depth experience with university technology transfer and technology commercialization. Fellows work closely with Tech Ventures on a part-time basis, providing support for invention assessments and technology marketing. The program is intended to enhance our understanding of the commercial potential of inventions and technologies, while providing Fellows a valuable educational experience.
Typical projects may include assessing the commercial viability of new inventions, identifying potential licensees or investors, developing marketing materials or business plans, and review of patent literature.
Students selected for the program start at the level of ‘Research Assistant’. At the end of the term, if work has been completed to a satisfactory level, students will receive the designation ‘Fellow’.
Selection Process
Graduate students (Masters, PhD, MBA) from medicine, life sciences, engineering, chemistry, business, and computer science are encouraged to apply.
Selection for this program will be based on a combination of factors, including:
- Academic performance
- Scientific / technical background
- Enthusiasm and willingness to take on new challenges
- Interest in technology transfer
- Commitment and availability for 10 hours per week (for a minimum of two terms)
- Prior experience (if any) in business or in commercial environments
Training will be provided. Students will also be invited to attend Tech Ventures-hosted events and provided opportunities to engage with directors and licensing officers at Columbia Technology Ventures. Pay is $20 per hour.
To Apply
The winter 2011 - 2012 application period is now open. The deadline is 11:59pm, January 19th, 2012. Please apply at: http://www.wizehive.com/apps/ctvfellows. Click here to join our mailing list.
Questions
If you have any questions about the program or application process, please e-mail us at techtransfer@columbia.edu.
Suggestions
The Fellows Program typically holds recruiting rounds twice a year, and we do encourage submissions and resubmissions from previous applicants who have taken steps to strengthen the desired skillset and experience. Relevant courses and activities are listed below.
• marketing and entrepreneurship courses offered by Columbia Business School (GSAS students are eligible)
• technology management courses offered by the School of Continuing Education (taught by professors from the Schools of Engineering, Business, and Law)
• drug development course offered by the School of Public Health (P8146)
• healthcare strategy and dealmaking courses offered by Columbia Business School
• student clubs such as Columbia Organization of Rising Entrepreneurs (CORE), Columbia Entrepreneurs Organization (CEO), etc.
• IP and tech transfer seminars, business/science mixers, business plan competitions, etc. (join our mailing list to receive notices of these events)
