Apply now! iCAN Business Development Director

Helsinki Innovation Services Ltd is looking for a Business Developer to join the Helsinki Innovation Services team to work in the Digital Precision Cancer Medicine (iCAN) program.

Read the job announcement below and apply latest on October 6, 2024!


Helsinki Innovation Services Ltd is the technology transfer and commercialisation company of the University of Helsinki. Our experienced experts evaluate the commercial potential and significance of research ideas and inventions. We support the university and researchers in finding funding for the preparation of commercialisation, out-licensing of technologies, IPR management, and establishing spinout companies. We are passionate about science and commercialisation of research.

We are looking for a Business Developer to join the Helsinki Innovation Services team to work in the Digital Precision Cancer Medicine (iCAN) program. iCAN is a national R&D flagship program providing solutions to the cancer challenge through discovery and innovation cluster at the interface of precision cancer medicine and digital health.

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for a business minded person with entrepreneurial mindset, knowledge in the field of cancer research, and a drive to foster collaboration between industry and the iCAN Flagship. The iCAN Business Developer’s main responsibility is to act as business developer in the iCAN flagship program. The role consists of carrying out tasks related to innovation, business development and commercialization within the flagship, and establishing collaborations between industry and the flagship.

The main responsibilities and tasks of the role include, but are not limited to

  • Develop and manage relationships with stakeholders at national and international level.
  • Handle and manage contract negotiations as well as building and managing strategic partnerships with industry.
  • Plan, perform and lead business development activities in iCAN including identification and contacting potential partners, sales and marketing, business opportunities as well as development of commercial intelligence.
  • Develop promotional material on iCAN research and commercial collaboration opportunities to stakeholders including pharmaceutical, biotech, AI, and digital health companies, and investors in life sciences.
  • Participate in scientific activities to help iCAN researchers strengthen the scientific offering the Flagship has to potential industry partners.
  • Liaise with iCAN researchers to raise the awareness in invention and commercialization related topics, identify inventions and develop business opportunities.
  • Work across all areas of iCAN in both strategic and operational hands-on tasks for iCAN to succeed in providing significant economic and societal impact.
  • Reporting to and supporting the Executive Officer of iCAN flagship as well as co-operating with other Helsinki Innovation Services and iCAN personnel.

What do we value?

  • A suitable education: PhD or equivalent, preferably in the field of cancer research
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience and proven track record in business development, commercialization and entrepreneurship, and initiation of public/private partnerships or collaborations.
  • Fluency in English.
  • Experience in the field of cancer research.
  • Ability to work with people from different backgrounds.
  • Excellent teamwork, negotiation, and communication skills.

The position is full time, based in Helsinki and available immediately when a suitable candidate is found.

To apply, please submit your Cover Letter with a CV and a salary request latest on 6 October 2024 to his-recruitment@helsinki.fi. Please note, that Direct LinkedIn applies only will not be considered.

If you have specific questions before applying, please reach out to us at his-recruitment@helsinki.fi.

We look forward to hearing from you!

For more information:

https://www.helsinki.fi/en/helsinki-innovation-services