Centre for Innovation and Development, Department of Business Innovation Development.

Job Summary

Type: full-time
Location: Windhoek
Category: Legal
Closing Date: 2026-09-11

Key Responsibilities

Managing technology transfer processes
protecting intellectual property
negotiating licensing agreements
collaborating with researchers and industry partners

Requirements

Master’s degree in Intellectual Property Law or related field
experience in technology transfer
strong negotiation and communication skills

How to Apply

Kindly visit: erecruit.unam.edu.na for detailed information and to apply for these vacancies. Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. All foreign qualifications should be accompanied by a Namibia Qualifications Authority (NQA) evaluation certificate. Should you have any queries kindly contact: Tel: 061 206 4620.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications and certifications are typically required for this role in Namibia?

A bachelor’s degree in law, intellectual property, science, engineering, or a related field is usually required; many employers prefer candidates with an LLB or postgraduate qualification in IP law or technology transfer. Registration with the Law Society of Namibia is essential for legal advisory functions, and familiarity with the Namibian Industrial Property Act (Act 12 of 2023) is expected.

What does a typical day look like for an Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer Officer in Namibia?

Daily tasks include drafting and reviewing IP assignment and licensing agreements, supporting researchers in patentability assessments, and liaising with the Namibian Companies and Intellectual Property Registration Office (CIPRO). You’ll also conduct IP awareness workshops for academic staff and assist in commercialising university-developed innovations under Namibia’s national innovation policies.

How does Namibian work culture influence expectations in this role?

Namibian workplaces value respect for hierarchy, consensus-building, and relationship-based collaboration—especially when engaging with academics, traditional knowledge holders, or government stakeholders. Punctuality and formal communication are expected, but flexibility around deadlines may occur during community consultations or public holidays aligned with Namibian cultural observances.

What realistic career progression paths exist for this role in Namibia?

With experience, officers often advance to Senior IP Officer or Head of Technology Transfer within universities or research institutions, or transition into policy roles at the Ministry of Higher Education, Training and Innovation. Some pursue specialisation through regional certifications like the WIPO Distance Learning Program, which is widely recognised by Namibian public-sector employers.

What benefits are typically offered to this role in Namibian public or parastatal institutions?

Standard benefits include 21 days’ annual leave, medical aid subsidy (often via GSF or a private provider), and mandatory pension contributions under the Namibian Pension Funds Act. Maternity/paternity leave follows the Labour Act (No. 11 of 2007), and some institutions offer study leave support for further IP-related qualifications.

How should I apply, and what do Namibian employers specifically look for in candidates?

Applications are usually submitted via institutional portals or email with certified academic transcripts, proof of Law Society of Namibia registration (if applicable), and a detailed CV highlighting IP-related projects in Namibia or SADC contexts. Employers prioritise demonstrable experience with local IP processes—such as CIPRO filings—and evidence of stakeholder engagement with Namibian researchers, SMEs, or indigenous communities.