Job Description

Business Development Manager - Physical Sciences

West Cambridge | From 57,422 | Permanent - Full Time |Hybrid - 3 days in Office

Turn ground-breaking research into real-world opportunities.

If you've got a background in physical sciences and experience in business development or commercial strategy, this is your opportunity to help shape the future of innovation -transforming high-potential scientific ideas into commercial opportunities through licensing and spin-out ventures.

Why you will love this role:

As a Business Development Manager at Cambridge Enterprise, you'll play a pivotal role in the Technology Innovation Fund (TIF) team, working closely with some of the most promising early-stage technologies emerging from the University of Cambridge.


This is not about taking products to market - it's about identifying early commercial potential, helping to de-risk emerging science, and advising on pathways that lead to licensing deals or investment-ready spin-out companies. You'll assess new innovations, build an understanding of potential markets, and shape strategies that attract investors, partners, and licensees.


You'll also be actively building networks - connecting with researchers, industry partners, and investors to create valuable relationships that support the commercial journey. This is a dynamic, outward-facing role where your insight and connections will make a real impact on the success of future ventures.


In this role, you will:

Collaborate with leading researchers and inventors at the earliest stages of innovation. Identify potential applications through market engagement and validation through speaking to potential end-licencees. Shape early commercialisation strategies to support licensing or spin-out formation. Build and maintain a strong network of industry contacts, investors, and potential partners. Help develop business cases to secure external funding or partner interest. Build lasting industry connections to help secure licensing and spin-out deals. Travel nationally and internationally to meet with key clients and attend key industry conferences and networking events to strengthen both Cambridge Enterprise's presence and your own professional network.

What we're looking for:

A degree in physical sciences (an advanced degree is a plus). Proven experience in business development, sales and marketing or commercial strategy. A track record of building strong, productive relationships with external stakeholders. Experience of identifying and evaluating market opportunities for new technologies, applying lateral thinking and creativity where appropriate. Strong ability to understand and communicate complex scientific ideas for commercial audiences. Ability to apply strategic negotiation skills and lead negotiations with confidence. Familiarity with innovation funding, licensing deals, and industry-academic collaboration. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and CRM tools (e.g., Dynamics 365), and able to use sales engagement platforms . Excellent communication, organisational, and project management skills.

Nice to have:

Experience working with investors and innovation funds (e.g., Innovate UK). Background in technology transfer, contract negotiation, or IP management. A PhD or relevant research experience in physical sciences. Understanding of the patent process and market positioning strategy.

Diversity and equality matter:

These are our ideal requirements, but we know some people are less likely to apply for the role unless they are 100% qualified. At Cambridge Enterprise, we promote a diverse, inclusive and empowering culture, so please apply if you meet most of the job requirements.


If you have any questions about the interview process, or if you need any reasonable adjustments, please don't hesitate to contact Natalie or the team at people@enterprise.cam.ac.uk

Perks at a glance:

30 days holiday (plus bank holidays) Class-leading Bupa private medical insurance Hybrid role with genuine flexible working - including work from abroad for up to 30 days a year in most roles Generous University pension scheme. A commitment to personal development including LinkedIn learning. Family-friendly policies (including enhanced parental leave & childcare benefits, fertility leave, and pregnancy loss leave) Mental health and well-being support including access to free counselling. Access to Bupa's Menopause Plan for expert advice and support. Retail and travel discounts.

Why Cambridge Enterprise?

We are at the heart of Europe's most successful research and technology cluster and we're on a mission to bring innovation to life, making a difference to society, the UK economy, and the University of Cambridge. We connect the innovative minds of the University's academics with the funding, start-up expertise and commercial relationships they need to help their ideas thrive.



Our success stories include an electric vehicle charging technology that's as convenient as filling up with petrol, a programme to prevent ideological extremism, and the world's first treatment for a rare cause of blindness. Now, we need a Business Development Manager to join our team at our vibrant West Cambridge site.

Key dates:

Closing date: 24th June 2025 First interviews: week commencing 30th June 2025 Second Interviews; week commencing 14th July 2025

Please note that the role may close early if we receive a high volume of applications.