How to Apply
A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position. If you have an example of a data problem you found and fixed, we'd love to hear about it. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered.
Who We Are
The University of Michigan is one of the world's most powerful engines for scholarly research, service, and impact. Sustaining and supporting the University's robust research enterprise is vital for maximizing innovation and economic development. As a service and resource for innovative investigators interested in the commercialization of research, Innovation Partnerships is a unit of the Office of Research that plays a central role in helping to ensure that society realizes the benefits of the research conducted on campus.
Innovation Partnerships enhances research discoveries to encourage licensing and broad deployment with existing businesses and newly formed U-M startups. Innovation Partnerships has earned a reputation for performance among the top 10 of all universities through providing responsive, professional service to our inventors and industry partners.
Responsibilities*
Patent Expense and License Revenue Billing
- Manage the end-to-end billing process for both patent expense reimbursement and monthly license revenue, ensuring accuracy at every step
- Generate accurate invoices for licensees and co-owners, with a focus on completeness and compliance with financial terms
- Create and maintain revenue records in Sophia (our IP management system)
- Investigate and resolve billing discrepancies with careful attention to financial accuracy
- Generate reports to support analysis, billing accuracy, and forecasting as needed
- Track and manage reimbursement terms for new and amended licenses
Accounts Receivable Support
Send reminders and initial outreach for past-due invoices
Work with licensees to resolve payment issues or disputes
Collaborate with the finance team to escalate issues as needed
Maintain detailed documentation of communications and AR status
Support financial analysis and reporting related to outstanding balances
Team Support & Cross-Training
Serve as a backup for other operational finance staff when needed
Cross-train with teammates to ensure continuity and shared knowledge
Support special projects or process improvements as needed
What You'll Do
Innovation Partnerships is looking for a detail-driven, financially savvy professional to join our business operations team as an IP Finance & Accounts Receivable Specialist. This role is perfect for someone who thrives on accuracy, loves solving problems, and enjoys work that requires a steady rhythm with occasional pivots.
In this role, you'll be responsible for managing invoicing and accounts receivable related to patent expenses and licensing revenue. You'll issue invoices, track payments, follow up on overdue accounts, and help make sure our systems (including our IP management system) are always in sync with our financial ledgers. But it's not just transactional - this role requires judgment, initiative, and an ability to navigate exceptions to the rule.
This position is currently part of a team that employs a hybrid work environment, and you'll be expected to come into the office at least 2 days per month. We value autonomy, flexibility, and a sense of purpose in the work we do. If you're someone who loves getting things right and appreciates the downstream impact of well-managed finances, we'd love to hear from you.
Required Qualifications*
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience
- At least 2 - 5 years of relevant experience in accounts receivable, financial analysis, or similar roles
- Solid understanding of financial/accounting principles
- Experience with invoicing, payments, and journal entries
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (formulas, filters, etc.)
- Strong organizational and communication skills
- Ability to work independently in a remote/hybrid setting
- Tech-savvy and comfortable navigating multiple systems
Skills You Have
This Job Might Be For You If?
- You have a strong foundation in finance or accounting. You understand invoicing, journals, vouchers, and how receivables flow.
- You are detail-obsessed and take pride in accuracy, especially when dealing with numbers.
- You know how to work independently and manage your own to-do list with a good deal of autonomy.
- You are comfortable with ambiguity. Standard processes are great, but you can navigate (or ask for help with) exceptions.
- You like problem-solving and you've usually got a thoughtful solution in mind.
- You check your email, and you respond to it. You know clear, timely communication is part of staying accountable, especially when accuracy and follow-through support a larger mission.
- You're not afraid to ask questions or suggest improvements when something doesn't seem quite right.
- You find meaning in supporting the mission of world-changing research and innovation
Desired Qualifications*
- Familiarity with University of Michigan financial systems (M-Pathways, etc.)
- Experience working with IP management platforms or complex financial structures
Modes of Work
This position is currently part of a team that employs a hybrid work environment, and you'll be expected to come into the office at least 2 days per month. We value autonomy, flexibility, and a sense of purpose in the work we do. If you're someone who loves getting things right and appreciates the downstream impact of well-managed finances, we'd love to hear from you.
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.
Additional Information
This role reports to the Executive Director of Operations for Innovation Partnerships and is posted as a hybrid position. In-person attendance is expected at least two days per month, and you're welcome to join the office in person as frequently as you like.
Our Commitment to You
We know great candidates bring more than just a checklist of qualifications. If this role resonates with you - even if you're not sure you meet every single requirement - we encourage you to apply. You may be the right fit in ways we haven't even thought of yet.
Background Screening
The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.