OTTCP Summer Intern

Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world''s brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community.

Job Summary

The OTTCP summer intern will contribute to a range of new and ongoing initiatives within the Office of Technology Transfer and Corporate Partnerships. A primary focus of the internship will be exploring how Artificial Intelligence can be leveraged to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of technology transfer operations, including invention disclosures, patent prosecution, interactions with outside law firms, licensing activities, billing, royalty distributions, and related processes.

The intern will begin by interviewing key OTTCP team members to gain an understanding of the office's workflows and operational needs. He or she will then research how peer universities and technology transfer offices are integrating AI tools into their activities and processes. Based on these findings, the intern will evaluate potential opportunities for AI deployment within OTTCP and, by the conclusion of the internship, ideally develop recommendations for AI tools and implementation strategies across various aspects of technology transfer operations.

In addition, the intern will engage with Caltech-affiliated startups that are utilizing AI in their own operations in order to gather practical insights and identify emerging best practices.

Essential Job Duties

• Conduct interviews with OTTCP staff to understand current workflows, operational challenges, and process inefficiencies.
• Analyze key technology transfer functions, including invention disclosures, patent prosecution, licensing, billing, royalty distribution, and law firm interactions.
• Research how peer universities and technology transfer offices are leveraging AI to enhance operations.
• Identify opportunities to integrate AI tools into OTTCP processes to improve efficiency, accuracy, and scalability.
• Evaluate and compare available AI technologies, vendors, and use cases relevant to technology transfer.
• Develop actionable recommendations and implementation strategies for AI adoption within OTTCP.
• Engage with Caltech-affiliated startups utilizing AI to gather insights on real-world applications and best practices.
• Prepare and present findings, including a final report and/or presentation outlining recommendations and next steps.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

• Currently enrolled undergraduate, graduate, or recent graduate in a relevant field (e.g., engineering, computer science, data science, business, law, or related discipline)
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to conduct research, synthesize information, and present findings clearly
• Interest in technology transfer, innovation, intellectual property, or AI applications in business processes
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with Artificial Intelligence, machine learning, or data analytics concepts and tools.
• Exposure to intellectual property, patent processes, or technology commercialization.
• Experience conducting qualitative research, interviews, or workflow analysis.
• Knowledge of enterprise software tools, process automation, or digital transformation initiatives.
• Ability to independently manage projects and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.
• Interest in startups, innovation ecosystems, or university technology transfer operations.

Required Documents

• Resume