BD Director, DeepTech & Exact Sciences

Role Summary

Yeda, the commercialization arm of the Weizmann Institute of Science is looking for a Business Development Director to lead the commercialization of breakthrough technologies originating from the Weizmann Institute, across physics, math, computer science, and engineering.

The director will work closely with leading researchers to identify and assess commercial potential of early-stage discoveries, define commercialization strategies, and drive the creation of deep-tech ventures, formation of industry collaborations, and execution of licensing deals. The role requires strong scientific and technological insight, business acumen, and the ability to translate complex research into products, partnerships and ventures. 

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate emerging research across **physics, math, computer science, and engineering**, using market research, competitive analysis, and industry mapping to assess commercial potential.
• Work closely with Yeda’s IP, Legal, and Marketing teams, and with other units across the Weizmann innovation ecosystem, to ensure the effective management and execution of technology transfer processes.
• Build and maintain relationships with industry partners, investors, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders to promote collaborations, licensing and venture-building opportunities.
• Drive the commercialization process for a diverse portfolio of technologies through structuring, negotiating, and securing licensing, collaboration, sponsored-research, and other agreements.
• Lead the formation of deep-tech startups based on Weizmann technologies. 

Qualifications

• Education: MSc or higher degree in exact sciences, engineering, computer science or a related field is required - a must
• Industry & commercialization experience: At least 5 years of relevant experience in deeptech or technology-driven industries, or another environment requiring the translation of complex technologies into commercial opportunities. This must include hands-on experience in one or more of the following: business development, technology transfer, venture capital, corporate innovation, or venturebuilding. Direct deal experience (e.g. structuring or negotiating licensing, partnership, or investment agreements) is a strong advantage.
• Scientific and technological insight: Demonstrated capability to understand complex research and identify its potential for market applications.
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate the value of early-stage research to scientific, business and investment audiences.
• Relationship building: Strong interpersonal and networking skills, with the ability to establish trusted relationships with researchers, entrepreneurs, investors, and industry stakeholders. 
• Execution and project management: Ability to take ownership, multitask, prioritize effectively, and advance technologies spanning multiple exact-sciences fields at different stages of maturity, often in parallel.
• Language proficiency: Fluency in English and Hebrew is required.