REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS (AS EVIDENCED BY AN ATTACHED RESUME):

PhD (or foreign equivalent) in life sciences, engineering, or quantitative discipline. Completed Postdoctoral fellowship and one (1) year or more of experience in consulting, early-stage venture, or startup diligence. Experience working with startup founders. Demonstrated ability to assess scientific platforms and their commercial potential. Experience with SBIR/STTR application writing and requirements. Proficient in relational databases (e.g., Airtable) for tracking and reporting. Experienced with research tools such as PitchBook, CB Insights, Crunchbase, GlobalData, FirstIgnite, etc. Fluency with AI tools to improve research and workflow. Experience supervising and training interns or junior analysts. Experience with maintaining and updating websites.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Prior experience as a founder, early team member, or consultant to startups in life sciences. Strong presence in founder and investor-facing conversations. Experienced working in an ambiguous, iterative, and fast-paced environment. Experience with, understanding of, or exposure to emerging technologies and venture development. Access to startup company sourcing channels. Exposure to investment diligence and accelerator activities.

STONY BROOK UNIVERSITY IS COMMITTED TO EXCELLENCE IN DIVERSITY AND THE CREATION OF AN INCLUSIVE LEARNING, AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT. ALL QUALIFIED APPLICANTS WILL RECEIVE CONSIDERATION FOR EMPLOYMENT WITHOUT REGARD TO RACE, COLOR, NATIONAL ORIGIN, RELIGION, SEX, PREGNANCY, FAMILIAL STATUS, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, GENDER IDENTITY OR EXPRESSION, AGE, DISABILITY, GENETIC INFORMATION, VETERAN STATUS AND ALL OTHER PROTECTED CLASSES UNDER FEDERAL OR STATE LAWS.

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BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES:

The Venture Associate is a high-agency role designed for a PhD scientist who maintains a positive “can-do” mindset in all situations; who thrives at the intersection of translational science, venture strategy, and stakeholder engagement; and enjoys building things from the ground up. You’ll co-lead sourcing and diligence efforts, drive venture pipeline development, and ensure that every founder engagement is purposeful and momentum-building. Important to this position is strong written and verbal communication skills along with operating independently with clarity, ownership, and high execution standards.
The role will work with Managing Director and Entrepreneurs-in-Residence, and collaborate across a network of investors, translational faculty, and corporate partners. Lead from zero to one—your work will drive decisions and define results. Take on significant responsibilities in due diligence, coaching, and accelerator program coordination. Collaborate with and learn from Entrepreneurs-in-Residence. Expand your professional network across the biotech startup ecosystem. Lead challenging projects that accelerate your skill in venture formation. Chart a clear path for rapid career advancement as you drive tangible results.