TSL Ventures Operations Officer

  • Published:

Translate ideas and discoveries into impactful innovations

TSL Ventures, The Sainsbury Laboratory (TSL), Norwich, UK

The Sainsbury Laboratory (TSL) is a world-leading research institute dedicated to the study of plant diseases and committed to developing new solutions to global plant health. We are seeking a high-performing individual to support our scientists and enable TSL to perform at the very highest level.

About TSL Ventures

TSL Ventures aims to enable the laboratory to develop new intellectual property based on discoveries by our scientists, carry out proof-of-concept studies, train entrepreneurial scientists, and launch new companies.

The aim of TSL Ventures is to advance diverse pathways to translate ideas into impactful innovations and drive the commercialisation of discoveries originating at TSL. These include IP licensing, spin-out company creation, industrial partnerships, joint-ventures and collaborations.

Key Responsibilities

The TSL Ventures Operations Officer is required to support the TSL Ventures Executive in a wide range of activities across the following areas:

  • Providing support on the operation and governance of TSL Ventures, including supporting its governing body and the TSL Executive Director.
  • Critically evaluating translational science opportunities and working closely with TSL Group Leaders to understand their programmes and the potential for intellectual property generation.
  • Identifying new sources of revenue and liaising with funding bodies and investors. Supporting grant applications and investor presentations.
  • Providing financial monitoring of project income and expenditure to ensure appropriate distribution of funds to international project partners by TSL.
  • Developing, with appropriate training, IP and IPR guidance, opportunity identification and portfolio management alongside associated business development planning.
  • Developing the technology transfer / commercialisation capability, capacity, and culture at TSL.
  • Working closely with partners to ensure successful commercialisation of IP opportunities
  • This role has considerable development opportunity, and we will provide extensive training in intellectual property management, technology transfer, company creation and biotechnology.
  • The role requires a strong understanding of the science programmes at TSL and an ability to critically evaluate high quality science and translational opportunities.

Qualifications and experience

The role requires good organisational skills, strong scientific credentials, and the ability to communicate at all levels, including with senior international scientists operating in diverse countries across the world. The ability to work closely with TSL Group Leaders and senior scientists is essential. A PhD degree in a plant science-related topic is essential, and a sound knowledge of agricultural biotechnology would be an advantage.

This role may provide a development opportunity for a newly-qualified PhD graduate wishing to train in IP management and commercial application of research, or for an experienced graduate wishing to develop further skills in these areas. Further personal development in Business Development, Intellectual Property Law and Patenting will be provided to develop an understanding of, and interest in, the Intellectual Property and Patenting regulatory framework. Applicants must be able to demonstrate their ability to work in a small, highly integrated team and to be sufficiently flexible to be able to work in a fast-moving and dynamics research environment.

Appointment Details

Starting Salary: University East Anglia Grade 7/8 £37,099 – £45,737 depending on relevant science training and experience

Employment type: 3-year initial contract, with possibility of extension subject to funding

Employment basis: Full-time

Line Management: reporting to the Head of Administration, Executive Director and TSL Ventures Executive Board

Visa: Some applicants may be eligible for sponsorship under the UK Skilled Worker Visa route; eligibility will be assessed on an individual basis.

We offer 30 days annual leave, a generous pension scheme and the opportunity to develop skills and knowledge. We are located on an attractive campus offering cultural and recreational activities. We are committed to creating and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce and we provide a supportive working environment for all colleagues.

How to Apply

Please apply online by clicking the 'Apply' button on this page and quoting the reference code below.

Applicants should provide a CV, including the names and contact details of two or more referees, and a covering letter of no more than one A4 addressing the selection criteria.

If you wish to discuss this vacancy, please contact the HR Department: HR@tsl.ac.uk

Reference: TSLV01/2026

Closing date: 31st March 2026