Head of Commercial Partnerships – Physical AI Research
- The University of Waikato
- New Zealand, WKO
- Sep 1, 2026
Job Description:
Lead the commercialisation of world-class Physical AI research, building global partnerships and creating pathways from breakthrough research to real-world impact.
Shape the commercial future of Physical AI research
Build global partnerships with industry leaders
Turn world-class research into real-world impact
Ngā kōrero mō te tūranga – About the role
This is an exciting opportunity to play a leading role in translating the University of Waikato’s significant investment in Physical AI research into industry impact, economic value and sustainable commercial growth.
As the newly created Head of Commercial Partnerships – Physical AI Research, you will develop and execute the commercial partnership strategy for a rapidly developing area of research at the intersection of artificial intelligence, robotics, autonomous systems and real-world sensing technologies.
The University is building world-class capability in Physical AI, with a particular focus on applications across Aotearoa New Zealand’s primary industries – including horticulture, agriculture, forestry and aquaculture – with global relevance. You will be at the centre of connecting this research capability with ambitious industry partners in New Zealand and internationally.
Working across research, industry and commercialisation, you will identify and secure strategic partnerships, develop new revenue opportunities and help move research discoveries towards market application. You will have the opportunity to work across industry-funded research, collaborative R&D programmes, technology licensing, spin-out ventures, co-funded programmes and strategic grant opportunities.
You will build a portfolio of high-value relationships across agritech, robotics, autonomous systems, precision agriculture, forestry technology, AI/ML platforms and deep technology. You will also contribute to the wider innovation ecosystem, including connections with the Hiko Hub innovation precinct and other commercialisation infrastructure.
This is a role for someone who can operate confidently at the intersection of deep technical knowledge and commercial opportunity – engaging credibly with world-class researchers while articulating compelling propositions to senior industry decision-makers.
This is a permanent, full-time position of 37.5 hours per week, based at our Hamilton Campus. A competitive compensation and benefits package is available, reflecting the skills, knowledge and experience you bring to the position.
For more information on the role please see the position description. For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Florian Spoerl, [email protected]. All applications must be submitted through the online portal; emailed applications will not be accepted.
Ko wai koe? – Who are you?
You will be a commercially driven and technically credible leader with the ability to identify opportunities, build trusted relationships and turn complex research capabilities into compelling commercial propositions.
You will bring:
A PhD in Computer Science, specialising in AI, machine learning, robotics, autonomous systems or a closely related field.
5–10 years’ experience in commercial partnerships, business development or technology commercialisation within AI, robotics and/or autonomous systems.
Proven international experience, with networks across the global Physical AI, robotics and related sectors.
A strong track record securing high-value partnerships, delivering revenue and negotiating complex IP, licensing and R&D agreements.
Strong commercial and communication skills, with an understanding of research commercialisation, technology transfer, Māori data sovereignty and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
You will be strategic and entrepreneurial, comfortable creating opportunities in an emerging field and equally capable of converting strategy into action. You will be internationally minded, consultative and relationship-focused, with the confidence to engage with senior industry executives, academic leaders and governance stakeholders.
Experience within a university or Crown Research Institute, knowledge of Aotearoa New Zealand’s primary industries, familiarity with research funding frameworks, and networks across the global Physical AI, robotics or autonomous systems community would be advantageous.
Don’t meet every single requirement? Research shows that some people are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every qualification. At The University of Waikato, we’re committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and genuine workplace. So, if you’re excited about this role but your experience doesn’t perfectly match every listed qualification, we still encourage you to apply. You might be just the right person for this or another opportunity on our team.
Ko wai mātou? – Who are we?
The University of Waikato Te Whare Wānanga o Waikato is a research-intensive university providing a globally connected, innovative and inclusive experience in an environment characterised by a commitment to diversity, respect for Indigenous knowledge and strong community engagement.
The University is focused on significantly growing and diversifying its research profile through increased commercial engagement, deeper industry relevance and scaled external funding. Our investment in Physical AI represents an important part of this ambition, creating new opportunities to connect research excellence with industry challenges and economic priorities in Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond.
He aha ngā take me tono mai ai koe? – Why should you apply for this position?
This is a unique opportunity to help establish and grow the commercial ecosystem around an emerging area of research. You will:
Build strategic partnerships with leading organisations in New Zealand and overseas.
Connect cutting-edge Physical AI research with real industry challenges.
Create pathways from research to market through licensing, collaboration and spin-outs.
Develop sustainable commercial opportunities and revenue streams.
Help position Waikato as a leading partner in Physical AI, robotics and autonomous systems.
We want you to be part of our success! Our University stands proudly on the world stage as a provider of future-focused, international education and an active player in global research. Our rankings reflect these strengths. Working with us means you’ll enjoy a satisfying work environment with many benefits.
The University of Waikato is distinctive for the diversity of its staff and students and encourages applicants with the relevant capabilities from all backgrounds to apply. Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in NZ in accordance with the NZ Immigration regulations.
Ko te Tangata – For the People
The University of Waikato prides itself on the quality of its engagement with the communities that it serves, the provision of a world-class education and the national and international impact of its research. Our policies are guided by the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and equal opportunity for all.
E herea ana te Whare Wānanga ki te kaupapa kia whakaratohia te mea angitū ōrite ki ngā tāngata katoa.
Applications Close on Tuesday September 8, 2026
Requisition number: 1003878
The University of Waikato holds a special place in the New Zealand university system. Since its inception in 1964 when it was created by the demands of the local community, the University has shown a commitment to innovation and to...
Job ID:
Location:
Job Views:
Employment Type:
Job Description:
Lead the commercialisation of world-class Physical AI research, building global partnerships and creating pathways from breakthrough research to real-world impact.
Shape the commercial future of Physical AI research
Build global partnerships with industry leaders
Turn world-class research into real-world impact
Ngā kōrero mō te tūranga – About the role
This is an exciting opportunity to play a leading role in translating the University of Waikato’s significant investment in Physical AI research into industry impact, economic value and sustainable commercial growth.
As the newly created Head of Commercial Partnerships – Physical AI Research, you will develop and execute the commercial partnership strategy for a rapidly developing area of research at the intersection of artificial intelligence, robotics, autonomous systems and real-world sensing technologies.
The University is building world-class capability in Physical AI, with a particular focus on applications across Aotearoa New Zealand’s primary industries – including horticulture, agriculture, forestry and aquaculture – with global relevance. You will be at the centre of connecting this research capability with ambitious industry partners in New Zealand and internationally.
Working across research, industry and commercialisation, you will identify and secure strategic partnerships, develop new revenue opportunities and help move research discoveries towards market application. You will have the opportunity to work across industry-funded research, collaborative R&D programmes, technology licensing, spin-out ventures, co-funded programmes and strategic grant opportunities.
You will build a portfolio of high-value relationships across agritech, robotics, autonomous systems, precision agriculture, forestry technology, AI/ML platforms and deep technology. You will also contribute to the wider innovation ecosystem, including connections with the Hiko Hub innovation precinct and other commercialisation infrastructure.
This is a role for someone who can operate confidently at the intersection of deep technical knowledge and commercial opportunity – engaging credibly with world-class researchers while articulating compelling propositions to senior industry decision-makers.
This is a permanent, full-time position of 37.5 hours per week, based at our Hamilton Campus. A competitive compensation and benefits package is available, reflecting the skills, knowledge and experience you bring to the position.
For more information on the role please see the position description. For a confidential conversation about the role, please contact Florian Spoerl, [email protected]. All applications must be submitted through the online portal; emailed applications will not be accepted.
Ko wai koe? – Who are you?
You will be a commercially driven and technically credible leader with the ability to identify opportunities, build trusted relationships and turn complex research capabilities into compelling commercial propositions.
You will bring:
A PhD in Computer Science, specialising in AI, machine learning, robotics, autonomous systems or a closely related field.
5–10 years’ experience in commercial partnerships, business development or technology commercialisation within AI, robotics and/or autonomous systems.
Proven international experience, with networks across the global Physical AI, robotics and related sectors.
A strong track record securing high-value partnerships, delivering revenue and negotiating complex IP, licensing and R&D agreements.
Strong commercial and communication skills, with an understanding of research commercialisation, technology transfer, Māori data sovereignty and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
You will be strategic and entrepreneurial, comfortable creating opportunities in an emerging field and equally capable of converting strategy into action. You will be internationally minded, consultative and relationship-focused, with the confidence to engage with senior industry executives, academic leaders and governance stakeholders.
Experience within a university or Crown Research Institute, knowledge of Aotearoa New Zealand’s primary industries, familiarity with research funding frameworks, and networks across the global Physical AI, robotics or autonomous systems community would be advantageous.
Don’t meet every single requirement? Research shows that some people are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet every qualification. At The University of Waikato, we’re committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and genuine workplace. So, if you’re excited about this role but your experience doesn’t perfectly match every listed qualification, we still encourage you to apply. You might be just the right person for this or another opportunity on our team.
Ko wai mātou? – Who are we?
The University of Waikato Te Whare Wānanga o Waikato is a research-intensive university providing a globally connected, innovative and inclusive experience in an environment characterised by a commitment to diversity, respect for Indigenous knowledge and strong community engagement.
The University is focused on significantly growing and diversifying its research profile through increased commercial engagement, deeper industry relevance and scaled external funding. Our investment in Physical AI represents an important part of this ambition, creating new opportunities to connect research excellence with industry challenges and economic priorities in Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond.
He aha ngā take me tono mai ai koe? – Why should you apply for this position?
This is a unique opportunity to help establish and grow the commercial ecosystem around an emerging area of research. You will:
Build strategic partnerships with leading organisations in New Zealand and overseas.
Connect cutting-edge Physical AI research with real industry challenges.
Create pathways from research to market through licensing, collaboration and spin-outs.
Develop sustainable commercial opportunities and revenue streams.
Help position Waikato as a leading partner in Physical AI, robotics and autonomous systems.
We want you to be part of our success! Our University stands proudly on the world stage as a provider of future-focused, international education and an active player in global research. Our rankings reflect these strengths. Working with us means you’ll enjoy a satisfying work environment with many benefits.
The University of Waikato is distinctive for the diversity of its staff and students and encourages applicants with the relevant capabilities from all backgrounds to apply. Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in NZ in accordance with the NZ Immigration regulations.
Ko te Tangata – For the People
The University of Waikato prides itself on the quality of its engagement with the communities that it serves, the provision of a world-class education and the national and international impact of its research. Our policies are guided by the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and equal opportunity for all.
E herea ana te Whare Wānanga ki te kaupapa kia whakaratohia te mea angitū ōrite ki ngā tāngata katoa.
Applications Close on Tuesday September 8, 2026
Requisition number: 1003878
Posted:
