Careers

Build bridges between research, startups and industry.

Start Attractor is a lean, mission-driven foundation based in Pisa. We work with companies, researchers, founders and investors to turn knowledge into impact. Join from day one and help shape how we operate.

See open positions How to apply
📍 Pisa, Italy · Hybrid 🌍 Working in English & Italian 🚀 Small, high-impact team
Start Attractor careers
Open innovation Venture building Upskilling
Why Start Attractor

A small team with a big multiplier effect.

We are a lean, mission‑driven foundation backed by leading industrial and institutional partners. You will work closely with senior stakeholders while keeping your hands directly on projects that matter.

What you will experience

Crossing boundaries every day

Working at Start Attractor means frequently switching lenses: one day you may be talking with a C-level of a large industrial group, the next day mentoring an early‑stage founder or aligning with a research PI.

  • Exposure to a wide range of technologies and business models
  • Direct interaction with corporate innovation teams and startups
  • Collaboration with University of Pisa departments and partners
How we work

Lean, collaborative and transparent

We value clarity, ownership and respect. We keep a flat structure, share context widely and expect everyone to bring ideas, not only execute tasks.

  • Clear objectives aligned with our multi‑year Activity Plan
  • Flexible, hybrid work organization compatible with our mission
  • Strong emphasis on ethics, compliance and responsible innovation
Open roles

The first three hires of Start Attractor

You will work closely with founding partners and the University of Pisa, with real ownership and the opportunity to shape processes, programs and collaborations.

Open Position

Business Developer

Build and manage relationships with companies, identify innovation opportunities, structure collaboration projects and support startups in validating their markets.

  • Background in innovation, consulting or business development
  • Fluent in English and Italian
  • Comfortable working with both startups and corporates
Open Position

Scientific Developer

Connect industrial R&D in paper, packaging and advanced materials with academic research, helping translate
models into applied innovation projects.

  • Background in engineering or related fields
  • Experience with industrial R&D and/or applied research
  • Strong communication skills and curiosity for new technologies
Open Position

Admin & Operations Specialist

Support the day‑to‑day operations of Start Attractor across administration, HR support, basic accounting
coordination, and program logistics.

  • Structured, reliable and comfortable with multi‑tasking
  • Previous experience in administrative roles is a plus
Ongoing

Mentors & Faculty (ongoing)

We are always looking for mentors and faculty members to support founders and corporate teams through office hours, clinics, and feedback sessions.

  • AI & Data (ML, GenAI, data engineering, MLOps)
  • Deep Tech (robotics, photonics, advanced materials, space)
  • Health Tech (medical devices, digital health, biotech)
  • Paper & Manufacturing (process innovation, Industry 4.0, supply chain)
  • Agri & Food Tech (precision agriculture, food processing, traceability)
  • Fintech (payments, risk, regtech)
  • Digital & ICT (product, growth, cybersecurity, cloud)
  • Legal / IP, Fundraising / VC, Go‑to‑market, Operations

Apply as Mentor / Faculty member

How to apply

Simple, transparent process

Send your application at info(at)start attractor(dot)eu with a CV and a short motivation letter for job positions. Please specify the role in the subject line.
If you want to be a mentor or a faculty member use this form.

Step 1

Application

  • CV + short motivation letter
  • Rolling review
  • English proficiency required
Step 2

Interviews & short exercise

  • One or more interviews (online or in person)
  • A short case / practical exercise aligned with the role
  • We assess both technical and soft skills
Selection criteria

What we look for

Technical skills required to perform the role, alignment with the requested professional profile, experience in that profile, and the expected ability to grow and integrate within the Foundation will be assessed. The candidate’s soft skills will also be evaluated, particularly those that can foster the overall growth of the working environment they will join, such as the ability to work in a team, entrepreneurial mindset, creativity, and vision regarding the role of the Foundation, as well as public speaking skills before different audiences. Proficiency in the English language is essential. Multidisciplinary education and international experience will be considered preferential qualifications.
Equal opportunity

Inclusive hiring

Start Attractor is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, or age.
Future openings

No open roles yet for you?

If there are no positions currently open that match your profile, you can still express interest in future opportunities.
  • Send your CV and a short introduction Send your application here .
  • Indicate your main areas of expertise and preferred type of collaboration (employee, mentor, faculty member)
  • We will keep your data according to our data protection policies and may contact you if a suitable role opens