Innovation Researcher

Job Summary

Identify ZEISS relevant technologies:

• Assess technologies emerging from IIT Madras and other universities. Evaluate ideas based on desirability, feasibility, and viability for ZEISS.

Conduct innovation and market research:

• Lead studies on emerging technologies and market trends. Identify customer needs and define solution concepts with interdisciplinary teams.

Contribute fruitfully to projects:

• Drive the development of proof-of-concept demonstrators and prototypes. Work with internal and external partners to ensure knowledge transfer to ZEISS business units.

Support technology and business transfer:

• Facilitate the transition of innovative concepts into ZEISS business operations. Support internal venturing and incubation through structured proposals and business plans.

Screen and evaluate startups for the technology you are working on:

• Identify startups relevant to the Innovation Hub's focus areas. Propose collaboration or investment opportunities aligned with ZEISS strategy.

Foster innovation culture:

• Promote a together we go far and just do it mindset within teams. Encourage creativity, agile collaboration, and cross-border innovation practices.

Education requirements / Experience / Job Specifications

1. Education / Professional Certification

• University degree (PhDs/M Techs) in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)

2. Experience

• 2–4 years of working on bringing research ideas to products either in industry or academia, overall experience of 4 to 10 years

• Experience in working in cross-functional and external teams

3. Knowledge / Skills / Other characteristics

• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills

• String research experience

• Ability to work on projects with university teams

• Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities

• Hands-on, collaborative mindset with perseverance in idea development

• Fluent in English

4. Working conditions & Other Attributes.

• Based at IIT Madras Research Park, Chennai (on-site)

• Local candidates preferred, hybrid work to be discussed for exceptionally suitable outstation candidates.

• Dynamic, interdisciplinary, and entrepreneurial environment.

• Occasional domestic and international travel