Skip to content

Penn Center for Innovation (PCI) Fellows Program

Description

The Penn Center for Innovation (PCI) Fellows Program is a competitive, paid internship opportunity for Penn graduate students, postdoctoral trainees, and, in select cases, junior research staff.

The program gives participants hands-on experience in academic technology commercialization. PCI Fellows work alongside licensing professionals in areas such as life sciences, physical sciences, and medical devices, supporting patenting, licensing, and commercialization decisions.

Program Components

Participants gain experience through:

  • apprenticeship-style work on technology commercialization projects;
  • training workshops and personalized mentoring;
  • exposure to patenting, licensing, and commercialization strategy;
  • monthly meetings focused on networking, professional development, and career pathways in technology innovation.

Eligibility

The program seeks engaged, scientifically trained individuals from across Penn who have:

  • Penn affiliation;
  • strong scientific background;
  • excellent written communication skills;
  • strong academic or research performance;
  • interest in technology innovation and commercialization.

Program Requirements and Commitments

PCI Fellows are expected to participate professionally and meet program expectations, including initial training, assigned projects, monthly meetings, and project deadlines.

The program generally requires a one-year commitment, with the option to extend participation when appropriate. Participants may dedicate up to 10 hours per week to assigned projects.

For current application information, eligibility, deadlines, and program contacts, visit the Penn Center for Innovation Fellows Program.

Visit PCI Fellows Program