Call for Applications: College of Engineering and Purdue Innovates Commercialization Fellowship
In recognition of the unique opportunity that postgraduate researchers have in contributing to the innovation ecosystem and commercialization success, the College of Engineering and Purdue Innovates will fund a commercially focused individual to explore the commercial opportunity of technology in Purdue labs without the obligation of academic research grants. The expected output is a ready-to-license technology or a defined pathway to a startup company.
Application Timeline
- April 27, 2026 Announce Fellowship
- May 8, 2026 Close applications
- May 11 – May 15, 2026 Interviews
- May 22, 2026 Notify Applicants
- August 24, 2026 Onboard Fellows
Award amount and duration
The 12-month Postdoctoral Fellowship includes a stipend of $60,000 with fringe benefits of approximately $16,000. Entrepreneurial training is provided by Purdue Innovates using existing programs as well as bespoke mentoring from EIRs, Purdue Innovatesstaff, and the broader Purdue ecosystem. Additionally, there is $50,000
gap funding available for subject matter experts and technology refinement.
Eligibility
Potential Fellows should be imminently graduating PhD students or postdoctoral researchers advancing a technology that has been formally disclosed to the Purdue Innovates Office of Technology Commercialization (OTC). Candidates must also have a strong interest with demonstrated engagement in commercialization activities related to their research. In exceptional cases, outstanding candidates with a terminal Master's degree may be considered with salary commensurate with experience.
In limited cases, applicants who are not inventors may apply in connection with a College of Engineering–affiliated technology disclosed to OTC, provided there is clear faculty sponsorship and alignment with the originating lab.
Selection Criteria
Proposals are selected based on the technology value proposition and commercial potential as well as the candidate’s technical capabilities, leadership behaviors, and commitment to commercialization. Meaningful support from the faculty or lab leader is expected—ensuring the candidate has the access, endorsement, and environment needed to drive the work forward independently. Priority will be given to applications that can realistically achieve the expected Fellowship outcome within the appointment period.
How to apply
Applications are submitted electronically. Applicants will be asked to complete an online application and
upload the following materials (as PDFs):
- Resume/CV
- One-page letter of support from the Primary Faculty Sponsor of the technology
- Up to three publicly available publications that best describe the technology (co-authored by members of the Purdue team, including any inventors)
- Personal statement (1 page maximum) describing motivation for applying to the Fellowship
The personal statement should address:
- Leadership – Ability to work independently, manage complex projects, and grow professionally through the Fellowship
- Participation – Commitment to commercialization activities that strengthen the Purdue innovation ecosystem while supporting an inclusive, equitable, and diverse environment
- Feasibility – Disclosure through OTC and a credible pathway to commercialization (startup or licensing)
- Impact Potential – Alignment with the mission of Purdue University
Applications must be received by May 8, 2026.
Application Access
Applicants may access the application by using this link or scanning the QR code below:
Questions may be directed to Tamara Kinzer-Ursem, Assoc. Dean of Graduate and Professional Education, tursem@purdue.edu or Matt Dressler, Funds Manager, Purdue Innovates mrdressler@prf.org.