My guest Ernesto Chanona the CEO of American Business Development knows both sides of this world. He earned his PhD in pharmacology and did postdoctoral work at the National Cancer Institute developing immunotherapies. But instead of continuing down the traditional academic track, he made a sharp turn into business development at Maryland's Department of Commerce, helping life science companies expand internationally. Years later, he founded American Business Development to work with tech transfer offices, startups, and foreign companies trying to break into the U.S. market.

In this conversation, he walks through what business development actually looks like in life sciences including equal parts sales, technical expertise, and strategic consulting. We talk about the bandwidth crunch hitting tech transfer offices, building frameworks that scale, and why he insists the best marketed technology usually wins over the best science. He shares hard-won lessons about pitching investors, navigating the fragmented U.S. healthcare system, and why his best advice is deceptively simple: ask for help. People in this field genuinely want technologies to succeed, and trying to figure it all out alone is where most innovators get stuck.

In This Episode:

[02:08] Ernesto's unconventional path from pharmacology PhD to business development.

[06:58] Defining what a business developer does in life sciences—more than just sales.

[07:49] The three pillars: salesperson, subject matter expert, and consultant.

[11:20] Why business developers hold critical relationships that can't easily be replaced.

[13:45] The underappreciated role of federal labs in the innovation ecosystem.

[17:04] Where tech transfer offices struggle most with business development.

[19:00] Bandwidth challenges and why being short-staffed creates the biggest gaps.

[20:00] First steps when evaluating whether a technology needs partners or better positioning.

[21:13] Building scalable BD frameworks—internal operations and external consistency.

[22:53] What separates commercially ready technologies from those needing development.

[23:44] The role of luck and market validation in commercial readiness.

[24:46] Deploying demo units to universities for voice-of-customer feedback.

[26:03] Balancing high-risk innovations with near-market technologies.

[28:20] The biggest mistakes organizations make when pitching to investors.

[28:51] Why the size of your ask matters more than you think.

[30:12] The importance of detailed, well-researched outbound messaging.

[33:08] ABD Capital Connect event during J.P. Morgan Healthcare Week.

[35:02] International expansion challenges and competition from China.

[36:28] Why the fragmented U.S. healthcare system confuses foreign companies.

[38:18] The problem with one-person in-country hires versus team-based approaches.

[39:40] Why the best marketed technology wins, not just the best science.

[42:01] Final advice: It takes a village, so leverage your network and ask for help.

[43:06] How willing people are to help when you're motivated to bring something to market.

Resources: 

The Transfer Files Podcast - FLC

American Business Development

ernesto@americanbizdev.com

Ernesto Chanona - LinkedIn

Ernesto Chanona - Johns Hopkins

ABD Capital Connect

Joanne is an engineer by training with a career spanning IBM, HP, SAP, and Cisco, who later founded her own startup and found her way into venture capital and now volunteers with IEEE Entrepreneurship. Cassandra brings a global perspective, having started her career advising C-suite executives in Asia before moving into early stage deep tech investing and founding Departure Capital, a firm focused on frontier tech for existential resilience. Together they've been building something really exciting within the IEEE ecosystem that we'll get into today.

If you work anywhere near research, standards, startups, or industry partnerships, chances are you've touched IEEE in some way whether through their publications, conferences, standards development, or their growing work in entrepreneurship and technology commercialization. That reach is exactly why this conversation matters so much for the federal tech transfer community. 

We talk a lot about moving inventions to market, but standards, industry alignment, and global technical networks are often the difference between a promising prototype and a technology that actually scales. So today we're digging into how IEEE connects researchers with industry, where standards intersect with commercialization, and what opportunities exist for federal labs and tech transfer offices to plug into that ecosystem. 

We also have an important update from the broader FLC community. Our Executive Director Paul Zielinski recently announced that he'll be retiring. His leadership has shaped not just the FLC, but the federal tech transfer ecosystem more broadly including expanding programs, strengthening interagency collaboration, and helping position tech transfer as a core part of the federal innovation mission. Paul is here to reflect on that journey, talk about what's changed in the field, and what he sees ahead for our community. 

In This Episode:

[02:18] Joanne shares her background as an engineer, moving from IBM and major tech firms to founding her own startup.

[02:54] Joanne describes how she fell into venture capital and connected with REDD's Capital out of California.

[03:11] She introduces her volunteer role with IEEE Entrepreneurship and gives an overview of the organization.

[03:55] Cassandra takes over and walks through her global career path from Hong Kong consulting to US-based venture capital.

[05:33] Cassandra introduces Departure Capital and her focus on frontier tech for existential resilience.

[06:02] The conversation turns to why they launched the Hard Tech Venture Summit and what "hardware is hard" really means.

[07:22] Discussion of Moore's Law limitations and why innovation must return to hardware fundamentals to support AI growth.

[08:47] The case that the world's biggest problems are physical, requiring atoms not just bits.

[09:14] The roots of venture capital and the US government's early role as the first tech investor are explored.

[10:28] Why manufacturing is a critical and often overlooked piece of the hard tech startup puzzle.

[11:10] Where hardware founders most commonly get stuck between the lab and the market.

[12:00] The challenges of team building, go-to-market strategy, and moving from prototype to mass manufacturing.

[12:48] Funding gaps, regulatory hurdles, and the stigma around investing in hardware-heavy startups.

[14:30] Stakeholder misalignment explored with manufacturers, engineers, investors, and regulators all optimizing for different things.

[15:44] The origin story of the Hard Tech Venture Summit and its inaugural event in San Francisco.

[16:30] Why startups and investors are regional and why that drove the decision to host multiple summits.

[17:22] How the summits are volunteer-driven through IEEE and interest in expanding to Latin America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific.

[18:52] What makes the Hard Tech Venture Summit different from a typical startup conference or demo day?

[20:09] How attendees are hand-selected and vetted to ensure genuine hardware focus with no deep tech tourists.

[21:35] The roundtable format explained with small curated groups designed for real conversation, not pitching.

[22:02] How the safe, judgment-free environment encourages honest feedback between founders, investors, and ecosystem partners.

[23:29] Day two of the summit is a half-day manufacturing workshop designed for early stage founders.

[24:13] How mentors help founders understand manufacturing contracts, yields, and timelines in a personalized setting.

[25:59] Future goals around tracking data, capital mobilization, and measuring real outcomes from the events.

[27:00] Where federal labs and the FLC fit into the hard tech ecosystem and how they can get involved.

[29:14] How people from federal labs can find and connect with the Hard Tech Venture Summits.

[30:23] Hopes for a joint partnership between IEEE Entrepreneurship and FLC and spreading the word to 500,000 IEEE members.

[31:43] Three to five year vision includes concrete metrics, capital mobilized, and building a true sense of community and continuity.

[34:08] FLC Executive Director Paul Zielinski has announced his retirement.

[35:05] Paul reflects on how difficult it was to walk away from something he's been passionate about for decades.

[36:24] Paul is most proud of the sense of community that the FLC has built over the years.

[37:42] Why modernization was a priority from launching the podcast to redesigning FLC Business and embracing digital tools.

[38:20] How COVID unexpectedly accelerated digital transformation at FLC while reinforcing the value of in-person connection.

[39:04] The focus on professional development, learning tracks, and positioning tech transfer as a respected profession.

[40:43] The mentorship program, online learning, and a teaser about an upcoming announcement to raise the prestige of the profession.

[42:02] How the FLC has evolved and grown its facilitate pillar and moving from administration to action.

[44:06] How Paul has seen the role of federal labs in the innovation ecosystem evolve over his 30-plus year career.

[45:04] The parallel growth of environmental law and tech transfer law in the 1980s and how that shaped his career.

[46:09] Looking ahead to AI, quantum science, and how FLC platforms are beginning to adopt AI tools.

[46:44] What qualities Paul hopes to see in his successor including passion, advocacy, vision, and the ability to listen and act.

[49:25] Reflections on serving at the White House level and across multiple agencies throughout his career.

[50:03] Paul shares his retirement plans and his hope to stay connected to the tech transfer world and see the many friends he's made along the way.

Resources: 

Federal Labs 

IEEE

IEEE Entrepreneurship

Hard Tech Venture Summits

Joanne Wong - LinkedIn

joanne.wong@ieee.org

REDDS Capital

Cassandra Carothers - LinkedIn

cassandra@departure.vc

cassandra@ieee.org

Departure Capital - LinkedIn

Paul Zielinski - LinkedIn

For this update, I’m joined by Paul Zielinski, Executive Director of the FLC. Paul walks through what 2026 is shaping up to look like, including plans for the upcoming National Meeting, leadership elections, and several new tools and resources in development. We also touch on how AI is showing up more frequently in tech transfer work and what the FLC is doing to modernize its support for the community.

In This Episode:

[00:02] We’re kicking off with a quick FLC update. 

[00:46] Paul Zielinski joins me to talk about what’s ahead for the Federal Laboratory Consortium in 2026.

[01:34] Paul shares the latest on the federal budget outlook and why it supports plans for an in-person National Meeting.

[02:01] We confirm the National Meeting is planned for May 12–14 in Seattle and why that matters for the community.

[02:32] Paul explains how the National Meeting serves as both the FLC’s business meeting and a major networking opportunity.

[03:15] We discuss awards, sessions, and how funding disruptions affected submissions this year.

[03:33] Paul outlines the upcoming elections, including board and regional leadership positions.

[04:25] He talks about the importance of volunteer leadership and ways members can get involved at different levels.

[05:39] We reflect on how interest in AI has grown rapidly within tech transfer offices over the past two years.

[06:03] Paul previews modernization efforts, including website improvements and member input opportunities.

[06:54] He shares updates on the Green Book, including the new online version and plans for print.

[07:42] Paul introduces plans for an interactive Green Book app designed to stay continuously up to date.

[08:25] We discuss the upcoming T2 Mechanisms Matrix and how a guided, bot-based tool could help users choose agreements.

[09:39] Paul explains why the FLC is beginning work on a new three-year strategic plan.

[10:19] We talk about how member surveys and feedback directly shape FLC priorities and tools.

[12:06] Paul highlights existing and upcoming AI tools and what may return in the year ahead.

[12:36] We wrap up with a look forward to Seattle and continued updates over the coming months.

Resources: 

The Transfer Files

2026 FLC National Meeting

Paul Zielinski - LinkedIn

Paul Zielinski: The Federal Budget and Its Impact on Research and Tech Transfer

Today, we’re revisiting the voices that shaped our year. We kick things off with Katharine Ku, the former Executive Director of Stanford’s Office of Technology Licensing, followed by Representative Bill Foster, who offers a unique perspective as both a scientist and a Congressman. We’ll also hear from Phil Weilerstein, founder of VentureWell, on his work with emerging innovators.

Later, we look at the ecosystem as a whole with Gabe Mounce from the Air Force Research Laboratory, Brian Darmody from the Association of University Research Parks, and TEDCO’s Stephen Auvil. Together, these guests remind us what it really takes to move ideas into the world, and why people remain at the heart of innovation.

In This Episode:

[01:46] In honor of the end of the year we are reflecting as we look back at conversations from this past year with ecosystem builders, licensing matchmakers, leaders, and others who helped shape the season.

[05:12] Katharine Ku enters with a story about the early skepticism surrounding Google’s search technology and the quiet confidence that guided Stanford’s licensing approach.

[08:04] Representative Bill Foster shifts the narrative toward the intersection of science and entrepreneurship and how lab resources can spark unexpected commercial breakthroughs.

[11:15] Phil Weilerstein reframes the challenges innovators face by showing how mindset change often matters more than technical ability when pursuing commercialization.

[14:31] Brian Darmody illustrates how research parks and innovation districts formed as universities recognized the need to support startups and attract industry talent.

[16:49] Stephen Auvil offers a pointed reminder that trust and human relationships often determine whether a promising technology finds the right problem to solve.

[20:07] The discussion turns to the operational side of the ecosystem as Paul Zielinski outlines how shutdowns and shifting timelines affect awards meetings and national planning.

[23:03] The upcoming national meeting and the real world constraints that shape participation including travel limits, continuing resolutions and agency approvals.

[27:08] A revealing moment surfaces as new learning tools and structured pathways highlight how education and trust continue to strengthen lab to market work.

[30:34] The season begins its close with a look ahead to March and the steady momentum of the community even during quieter holiday periods.

Resources: 

The Transfer Files

Kathryn Ku - Wilson Sonsini

Lessons From a Tech Transfer Trailblazer With Katharine Ku

Phil Weilerstein - LinkedIn

Phil Weilerstein: Building the Next Generation of Science-Driven Entrepreneurs

Gabe Mounce - LinkedIn

Gabe Mounce: Powering the Space Valley Through Federal Tech Transfer

Brian Darmody - LinkedIn

Brian Darmody: How Research Parks Fuel Innovation Ecosystems

Stephen Auvil - LinkedIn

Stephen Auvil: Advancing Innovation Between Labs and Startups

Paul Zielinski - LinkedIn

Paul Zielinski: The Federal Budget and Its Impact on Research and Tech Transfer

My guest today is Ben Solomon, the founder and CEO of FedTech. Ben started out as a business-minded student who wanted to be close to technology but wasn’t a scientist himself, and that curiosity ended up shaping an entire ecosystem. After going through the NSF I-Corps program, he realized just how big the gap was between government-funded research and private-sector opportunities, and he built FedTech as a bridge. Ten years later, they’ve helped more than a thousand startups, spun out over 200 companies from federal inventions, and supported founders who have raised billions to bring new solutions to life.

In our conversation, Ben talks about what it actually takes to move a technology from the lab bench into the real world, what separates successful entrepreneurial teams from the ones that stall, and why flexibility, persistence, and community matter more than any single breakthrough. He also shares where he sees tech transfer headed next—simpler licensing, more accessible collaboration, better funding for commercialization, and a stronger pipeline of talent coming into the field. It’s a generous, grounded look behind the scenes at how innovation really gets built.

In This Episode:

[00:02] The power of community at FedTech and how collaboration creates value.

[00:41] How Ben’s path into entrepreneurship began through the NSF I-Corps program.

[01:20] Ben describes discovering the gap between federal research and commercialization.

[02:40] He shares lessons from launching an early robotics startup and what it taught him.

[04:28] Ben explains why customer discovery and market validation drive every FedTech program.

[05:53] The conversation turns to the importance of iteration and learning quickly from failure.

[06:07] Ben defines what FedTech is and its role as a bridge between federal R&D and entrepreneurs.

[06:51] We hear how FedTech’s startup studio forms teams around federal inventions.

[07:40] Ben highlights success stories, including Canopy Aerospace’s acquisition of a NASA spinoff.

[08:54] Discussion of accelerators and researcher training that support companies new to government work.

[12:15] We learn about the common challenges startups face moving technology into a product.

[14:36] Ben identifies the traits that predict founder success: flexibility, grit, and resourcefulness.

[17:38] The rise of AI emerges as a major area of momentum across federal labs and industry.

[19:04] Ben looks ahead at the future of tech transfer and reducing barriers for entrepreneurs.

[21:22] He emphasizes the need for funding dedicated specifically to commercialization.

[22:38] Ben offers advice for tech transfer professionals, entrepreneurs, and students entering the field.

[24:34] We explore FedTech’s upcoming programs and international expansion initiatives.

[26:07] Closing reflections and appreciation for the FLC community and collaborative mission.

Resources: 

FedTech

Ben Solomon - LinkedIn

In this episode, we take a look inside Catalyst with the people who built it. Jennifer Caldwell, Director of Technology Transfer at ORNL, shares why the lab needed a new model for communication and collaboration. Susan Ochs, ORNL’s Engagements Program Manager with decades of experience across the DOE system, explains how the program evolved from earlier outreach efforts and why it’s resonating with researchers. 

Along with Dr. Angelique Adams, CEO of Angelique Adams Media Solutions and Director of the Leadership in Engineering and Entrepreneurship Program at the University of Tennessee, talks about the communication framework she developed to help scientists present their technologies in a way that lands with industry decision makers.

We break down the shift from the original Safari program to Catalyst, the one-on-one coaching that transforms how researchers talk about their work, and the real-world outcomes that follow, including stronger pitches, new partnerships, successful TCF awards, and industry engagement that begins long before licensing discussions start. You’ll also hear how Catalyst is helping ORNL researchers move faster, connect more effectively, and bring their innovations into the marketplace with clarity and impact.

In This Episode:

[03:00] Jen explains how the earlier Safari program began as a way to break down barriers between ORNL and industry.

[03:31] ORNL shifts toward concierge-style engagement to create stronger private-sector connections.

[04:33] The team discusses why Safari was vital for showcasing ORNL’s breadth of innovation.

[05:13] Safari receives national recognition and becomes a catalyst for modernizing ORNL’s outreach.

[06:18] Susan highlights why long-term relationships are central to tech transfer success.

[07:14] Safari entrepreneurs return as mentors for Energy I-Corps applicants, showing the program’s ripple effect.

[08:03] COVID forces ORNL to rethink its engagement strategy and accelerate virtual communication tools.

[09:01] ORNL collaborates with Angelique to redesign the program around concise, industry-ready messaging.

[10:13] Catalyst launches with strong DOE support and earns internal recognition for its early success.

[11:11] Susan shares why ORNL’s early attempts at virtual engagement didn’t work and what needed to change.

[12:05] The team explains what makes Catalyst different from traditional communication training.

[13:18] Catalyst helps identify researchers who are ready to move their work toward commercialization.

[14:27] Small cohorts ensure each participant receives customized, high-touch coaching.

[15:26] How personalized coaching builds confidence and sparks clarity in researchers’ presentations.

[16:16] Why humility and a beginner’s mindset support real transformation.

[16:51] Catalyst skills begin translating into measurable commercialization outcomes.

[17:11] ORNL sees long-term impacts through stronger licensing, partnerships, and DOE program engagement.

[18:45] The curriculum that helps researchers shift from technical to industry-focused communication.

[19:22] Researchers learn how decision makers think, assess risk, and evaluate potential collaborations.

[20:22] Angelique explains why her industry background builds trust and credibility with participants.

[21:51] A high-stakes capstone event ensures researchers apply what they learn in real conversations.

[22:53] The program teaches researchers to transform traditional presentations into clear, concise pitches.

[23:16] Researchers develop both conversational and slide-driven formats to use across settings.

[24:05] Catalyst helps researchers direct industry interest to ORNL’s partnerships and licensing teams.

[25:10] Participants begin applying Catalyst skills to internal leadership situations as well.

[26:00] ORNL integrates commercialization managers to provide cross-functional perspective.

[27:21] One-on-one coaching becomes the turning point for overcoming fear and refining delivery.

[28:36] Angelique shares where listeners can access her 15-point communication checklist.

[29:02] The discussion turns to audience awareness and reducing jargon for non-experts.

[30:36] Angelique explains how analogies help researchers translate complex science simply.

[31:14] Michelle Kidder’s journey showcases how communication skills led to licensing and major TCF wins.

[32:38] A radiopharmaceutical team uses Catalyst tools to build partnerships and launch a major workshop.

[33:48] Quantum researchers transform their messaging and influence statewide investment discussions.

[35:28] Catalyst skills continue delivering long-term value across research programs.

[36:03] The program strengthens pipelines into TCF, vouchers, and DOE’s I-Corps program.

[37:55] Catalyst becomes part of a larger DOE commercialization arc that amplifies impact.

[38:53] The alignment between Catalyst and DOE funding programs becomes clear.

[39:10] The guests look ahead to the next Catalyst cohort and what’s planned for FY26.

[40:49] The new monthly FLC Update segment with Executive Director Paul Zelinsky.

[41:53] Paul explains how the lapse in appropriations is affecting federal agencies and confirms FLC remains operational.

[42:38] The mixed agency operating status, carryover funds, and essential services during the lapse.

[43:27] He clarifies FLC’s communication boundaries with Congress and highlights the release of the FLC Annual Report.

[44:56] Significant leadership turnover across agencies and why broad distribution of the report matters.

[46:09] Upcoming deadlines, key events, and preparations for the national meeting.

Resources: 

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Jennifer Caldwell - ORNL

Jennifer Caldwell - LinkedIn

Susan Ochs - ORNL

Dr. Angelique Adams

Dr. Angelique Adams - LinkedIn

My guest today is Darryl Thomas, Executive Director of NAPEX, the National APEX Accelerator Alliance. He leads a nationwide network of more than 90 accelerators that help businesses of all sizes build the confidence and know-how to succeed with the federal government. Darryl shares how these programs boost local economies, open doors for entrepreneurs, and strengthen our broader innovation ecosystem.

We also dig into NAPEX’s new partnership with the Federal Laboratory Consortium (FLC) with a collaboration focused on connecting more businesses with federal technologies and resources to help them grow. Together, NAPEX and FLC are turning innovation into impact and making sure more American companies have a seat at the table.

In This Episode:

[00:54] Darryl explains what APEX Accelerators are and how they help companies navigate certifications, proposals, and compliance.

[01:23] We learn how these programs strengthen local economies and the national innovation ecosystem.

[02:02] Darryl shares how his career began in auditing and business development before moving into small business support.

[03:51] The Illinois P-TECH program transitions into what is now the APEX Accelerator network under the Department of Defense.

[04:09] Darryl walks through the federal realignment that placed APEX within the Office of Small Business Programs.

[05:05] He reflects on leading the program at the state level and how that experience prepared him to serve nationally.

[06:25] Darryl talks about scaling collaboration and training for advisors across all APEX programs.

[07:45] The conversation turns to how APEX leverages expertise to support accelerators facing challenges.

[08:36] Darryl explains why federal contracts are a massive, often untapped market for small businesses.

[09:14] We hear how APEX advisors use real-world procurement experience to help companies avoid pitfalls.

[10:05] Darryl highlights National APEX Day and how events connect entrepreneurs with real assistance.

[11:11] Discussion of how APEX coaches companies to develop government-focused marketing strategies.

[12:17] How APEX provides access to expensive market research tools at no cost to clients.

[13:39] Step-by-step, Darryl outlines how APEX supports businesses through registration, bidding, and contract performance.

[15:57] Darryl discusses how any business, even startups, can begin conversations with an APEX Accelerator.

[17:04] The role of capability statements and when businesses may need prior performance.

[18:43] Darryl shares examples of retired military members and new entrepreneurs who needed guidance after receiving contracts.

[20:04] The importance of cash flow and client diversity when contracting with the government.

[21:23] We hear success stories that show persistence pays off, including a business that grew from homelessness to millions.

[22:27] A woman-owned business learns the difference between calling itself “certified” and being officially certified.

[23:14] The company goes on to become a $20 million success story after working with APEX.

[24:00] We discuss the new strategic partnership between NAPEX and the Federal Laboratory Consortium.

[25:15] Darryl explains how this collaboration will help grow the defense industrial base and foster innovation.

[26:26] How FLC technologies can bolster contractor competitiveness and align with APEX’s mission to educate, facilitate, and promote.

[27:41] Darryl shares how NAPEX recognizes FLC as a strategic partner and integrates their resources across accelerators.

[28:31] The shared mission and the “tech transfer is a contact sport” mindset.

[29:43] APEX aims to help businesses not just compete for contracts but thrive in them.

[30:18] How APEX now helps strengthen the defense industrial base through innovation and cybersecurity.

[31:37] Discussion of building resilient supply chains and accelerating technology transfer to the warfighter.

[32:31] Darryl describes how APEX reduces government risk by preparing companies to perform and comply.

[33:28] He highlights the importance of solid accounting and audit readiness for federal contractors.

[34:39] The structure of NAPEX and how it unites 90 accelerators nationwide.

[35:45] APEX now includes over 650 trained staff supporting businesses across 300 offices.

Resources: 

National APEX Accelerator Alliance

Darryl Thomas - LinkedIn

Michael describes how federal technology transfer links research to real-world applications across agencies like HHS and DOE, creating jobs, building industries, and fueling measurable growth. It’s the kind of behind-the-scenes work that shows how science quietly powers everyday life.

We also discuss the challenges of collecting and standardizing data across diverse organizations and how his team improved NIST’s reporting system, moving from years of backlog to an efficient, parallel process that keeps federal tech transfer reporting current.

With energy and candor, Michael offers a rare look at how economists support innovation from within the federal system. His reflections remind us that behind every dataset are the scientists, entrepreneurs, and policy leaders whose work fuels America’s innovation economy.

(This interview was recorded in May 2024, so some details may be outdated.)

In This Episode:

[01:08] How technological advancement helps federal agencies address national challenges.

[02:51] Michael’s path from academia to NIST and how economic development connects to tech transfer.

[03:47] Overview of the federal government’s $200 billion annual R&D investment and its link to innovation.

[04:20] What technology transfer means and why reporting to Congress and the White House matters.

[05:07] Examples of interagency collaboration and data-driven questions NIST helps answer.

[06:09] The goal of facilitating understanding across agencies to strengthen their own processes.

[07:00] How surveys and comparative data inform decision-making at federal laboratories.

[08:20] Using NIST’s internal datasets to assess licensing success rates and patent activity.

[09:11] Challenges of managing large, diverse, and often incomplete datasets.

[10:32] Why data-sharing limits exist in government and how relationships help bridge those gaps.

[11:49] The analogy of analyzing team results without individual player stats—useful but imperfect.

[12:59] Developing proof-of-concept analyses to guide other agencies despite limited visibility.

[13:54] How Michael streamlined years of backlogged reports through process redesign.

[15:33] Implementing data timestamping and parallel workflows to prevent future delays.

[16:19] Coordinating agency review through OMB and overcoming logistical bottlenecks.

[17:27] The long, coffee-fueled effort to modernize NIST’s annual reporting system.

[18:20] The balance between routine reporting and the more engaging, problem-solving side of the job.

[18:42] Encouraging agencies to reach out with data and questions for collaborative insight.

[20:02] Curiosity, service, and the shared goal of advancing federal innovation.

Resources: 

Michael Hall (NIST)

My guest today is Paul Zielinski, Executive Director of the Federal Laboratory Consortium. Paul knows the ins and outs of the budget process, and he’s great at cutting through the jargon. He explains what discretionary and non-discretionary spending actually mean, why deficits keep coming up year after year, and how labs adjust when Congress doesn’t pass a budget on time. He also shares what he’s seen from past shutdowns, the ripple effects on joint research, and the kinds of planning labs and their partners need to do to stay on track.

We cover a lot of ground, but the big takeaway is that even with uncertainty, there are ways to prepare and keep partnerships steady. Communication makes a difference, planning matters, and the work of research doesn’t just disappear because of politics. If you’re part of this ecosystem, or curious about how federal innovation weathers the uncertainty, you’ll come away with a clearer picture of what’s at stake and what helps labs push through.

In This Episode:

[02:16] Paul breaks down how the government generates revenue, highlighting income taxes, Social Security contributions, and corporate taxes as key sources.

[03:25] He distinguishes between non-discretionary spending, which includes programs like Social Security and Medicare, and discretionary spending, which is debated annually by Congress.

[04:20] Paul details the $1.9 trillion deficit for 2024 and notes that cutting all discretionary spending would still not eliminate it.

[06:40] The discussion turns to the yearly budget cycle, including how agencies develop budgets, OMB reviews them, and Congress sets targets.

[09:15] Paul describes how appropriations committees are supposed to pass budgets by October 1, but this rarely happens in practice.

[10:17] He explains omnibus bills, which combine all appropriations into a single package, and why some in Congress resist them.

[12:21] Paul outlines what happens when appropriations expire at midnight on September 30, leaving agencies unable to spend funds.

[13:06] He recalls that the last time a budget was passed on time was in 1996, emphasizing how rare timely agreements have become.

[14:08] The conversation covers continuing resolutions, or CRs, which allow government operations to continue at prior funding levels with or without added conditions.

[15:31] Paul notes that CRs come with restrictions, including prohibitions on starting or ending programs and requirements to spread spending evenly over months.

[17:04] He discusses how continuing resolutions and lapses affect federal labs, with licensing agreements less disrupted but joint research and CRADAs often delayed.

[18:21] Paul explains that in a full shutdown, most research stops while only critical services like law enforcement and security continue.

[19:28] The episode looks at the varying length of past shutdowns, from just a day or two to the 36-day lapse during the Trump administration.

[21:13] Paul notes that grants and small business innovation awards may continue or pause depending on agency decisions and the specific agreements in place.

[22:02] He emphasizes the importance of contingency planning and open communication between agencies and their partners during uncertain times.

[23:16] Paul reassures listeners that while research funding is a small slice of the budget, it generally survives periods of political gridlock.

[24:32] He reflects that shutdowns and continuing resolutions have happened many times before, and while disruptive, the government always reaches a resolution.

[25:04] Paul reminds federal employees that they are guaranteed back pay after shutdowns, though contractors face a greater risk of lost income.

[25:42] The conversation closes with thoughts on breaking stalemates and a pointer to additional resources, including Paul’s webinar on the federal budget process.

Resources: 

The Transfer Files: Inside the World of Federal Innovation

Paul Zielinski - LinkedIn

An Overview of the Federal Budget Process (for non-budget professionals)

Federal Lab Consortium

The Birth of Federal Tech Transfer with Special Guest: Paul Zielinski

Chris didn’t follow a straight path into this work. He started out in electrical systems and spent years building automation solutions before COVID forced him to rethink everything. That pivot, along with support from Brown Venture Group, introduced him to NASA’s Tech Transfer Program and opened his eyes to technologies sitting on the shelf that small businesses like his could bring to life.

In this episode, Chris talks honestly about what that journey has looked like including the risks, the learning curve, and the lifeline tech transfer can provide for entrepreneurs. He shares how ecosystems make the difference in helping minority-owned businesses access federal resources, why awareness is still so low, and how his own company went from early prototypes to scaled manufacturing and clinical trials.

In This Episode:

[01:11] Chris explains why tech transfer matters to startups and how it can be a lifeline for innovation.

[01:44] He shares his background in electrical systems and how he spent two decades in building automation.

[02:52] Chris describes the company’s pivot during COVID and how Brown Venture Group connected him to NASA.

[04:08] He recalls discovering the NASA Tech Transfer Program and being overwhelmed by the technologies available.

[04:44] The “electronic nose” stands out as a technology that could transform patient care.

[06:17] Chris talks about the limits of his engineering team and the need for chemistry expertise.

[07:54] He stresses the importance of ecosystems in giving small businesses confidence to take risks.

[09:16] Ecosystems provide relationships and connections that minority entrepreneurs often lack.

[10:29] Chris reflects on the steep learning curve of working with federal tech transfer offices.

[11:36] He describes using a one-year research license to acclimate and prototype with NASA.

[12:08] The discussion turns to technology readiness levels and the long runway to viable products.

[13:18] Funding challenges surface, especially when friends and family rounds aren’t possible.

[15:03] Chris explains how Brown Venture Group de-risks investments by backing companies licensing federal tech.

[16:09] He shares how the USPTO Pro Bono Program helped him file his first patent without major costs.

[17:29] Minority entrepreneurs face unique barriers when family capital isn’t available, making support essential.

[18:11] Chris updates on his company’s progress — moving from development into scaled production.

[19:22] He highlights clinical trials underway with Cleveland Clinic and early tests conducted on cows.

[20:07] A partnership with Australian company Accent accelerates development by sharing data and expertise.

[21:28] Collaborating with Accent cuts 18 months off Simpli-Fi’s development timeline.

[22:55] Chris explains how building U.S. manufacturing capacity supports not only his company but others in the ecosystem.

[23:42] He acknowledges the long road ahead, framing the effort as a ten-year project.

[24:27] Relationships, networks, and partners are what make the impossible feel achievable.

[26:07] Chris describes the struggle of finding ecosystem support when it wasn’t obvious where to turn.

[27:10] The complexity of building sensors highlights why specialized partners are vital.

[28:21] Ecosystems introduce companies to the right partners for scaling and manufacturing.

[29:05] Sometimes building your own ecosystem is necessary when none exists.

[30:24] Chris points out how silos in federal agencies create missed opportunities for collaboration.

[31:56] He calls for more outreach to entrepreneurs, noting fewer than 1% know about tech transfer.

[33:17] Awareness and relationship-building are key to speeding up the process.

[33:49] Chris compares FLC Business to a “dating app” for connecting entrepreneurs with federal labs.

[34:41] He emphasizes the staggering lost economic impact if minority communities lack access to capital.

[36:00] Pilot programs like FedTech are helping introduce small businesses to tech transfer opportunities.

[37:10] Chris explains the pull method of starting with buyers and then connecting them to entrepreneurs.

[38:18] Four minority businesses license technologies in the first pilot program with a major medical device company.

[39:03] De-risking works for both entrepreneurs and tech transfer offices when buyers are part of the process.

Resources: 

The Transfer Files: Inside the World of Federal Innovation

Christopher Campbell - LinkedIn

Simpli-Fi Automation

Brown Venture Group

FLC Business

David’s path to this role wasn’t exactly straightforward. He started out as a scientist, got frustrated watching great ideas stall out in the lab, and left to join the startup world. He then shifted into patent law, advising inventors and companies on how to protect and commercialize their ideas. Now, as Strategic Partnerships Officer at PPPL, he brings all those experiences together with science, entrepreneurship, and law to help researchers and companies work side by side.

Today, David shares what’s happening inside PPPL and where the lab is headed next. We talk about the rapid growth of fusion startups, new facilities like the Quantum Diamond Lab, and a bold effort called Plasma Forge that was created with support from the state of New Jersey to move technologies out of the lab and into industry. He also talks about the broader ecosystem, from New Jersey’s growing role in fusion to the partnerships that are forming across the Northeast.

We wrap up with David’s perspective on the Federal Laboratory Consortium, or FLC, where he was just elected incoming Northeast Regional Coordinator. He explains why regional collaboration matters, how labs can work across agency boundaries, and why PPPL is actively looking for new partners in areas far beyond energy. It’s a look at the people, policies, and partnerships shaping the future of tech transfer.

In This Episode:

[01:06] David’s background spans research, startups, patent law, and tech transfer at a Department of Energy lab.

[02:00] We learn why he left academia for startups, then shifted into patents and law to better connect science with real-world impact.

[04:55] Returning to academia, David joined university tech transfer offices before moving to PPPL, where he now leads partnerships.

[06:17] PPPL has a 70-year history in fusion research and is expanding into public–private partnerships to move technologies forward.

[07:51] Fusion energy is inherently cleaner than fission, but very hard to achieve. Recent years have brought major breakthroughs and private capital.

[10:40] PPPL is diversifying into AI, microelectronics, quantum devices, and industrial decarbonization alongside its fusion mission.

[12:52] Massachusetts is a leader in fusion with Commonwealth Fusion Systems; New Jersey is also positioning itself with startups like Thea Energy.

[14:11] David describes working with the state of New Jersey on feasibility studies to build a commercial entity next to the lab.

[14:58] Plasma Forge was launched with state and private support, creating a new hub for moving PPPL technologies into industry.

[16:30] The first partnerships are underway, and the lab hosted a fusion supply chain conference to connect industry and government.

[19:50] David explains how these efforts support both economic growth for the state and the lab’s mission to commercialize science.

[20:09] David talks about technology and trade secrets. This includes challenges for an open science lab to do the best science.

[21:30] We learn about the Quantum Diamond Lab, and how David likes being the tour guide and talking about the laboratory.

[22:48] What people should know about the Princeton Plasma Physics Lab. Plasma technologies are used in a wide variety of fields around the world.

[23:45] Plasma science has wide applications beyond fusion, including microchip manufacturing and satellite propulsion.

[24:36] PPPL is “open for business” and eager to partner with companies interested in plasma-based technologies.

[25:38] He discusses his election as incoming Northeast Regional Coordinator for the Federal Lab Consortium, stressing regional collaboration.

[30:25] The challenge is breaking down agency silos so that industry partners can access solutions more easily.

[31:49] David closes with an invitation for Northeast colleagues to connect with him and the FLC to strengthen regional ecosystems.

Resources: 

David Zimmerman - Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory

David Zimmerman - LinkedIn

Plasma Forge

Virtual Tour: Quantum Diamond Lab

Federal Lab Consortium

When we originally recorded this episode, the FLC was celebrating its 50th anniversary, an impressive milestone, yet still relatively young in the broader sweep of science and innovation. Since then, I’ve often thought back to this discussion during later interviews, especially as I’ve seen how far federal tech transfer has come in just a few decades. It’s a story of steady growth and adaptation.From its early days as a loose network of defense labs working together, to the passage of landmark legislation in the 1980s that gave federal labs the authority and responsibility to move their discoveries into the hands of companies and communities.

In our conversation, Paul takes us through these key moments: the 1945 Science, the Endless Frontier report that first envisioned a postwar role for federal research; the grassroots formation of the Defense Laboratory Consortium; and the pivotal Stevenson-Wydler, Bayh-Dole, and Federal Technology Transfer Acts that formalized tech transfer as part of every federal scientist’s mission. He also explains how the FLC evolved into a cross-agency community, supporting partnerships, cooperative agreements, and intellectual property management. All aimed at ensuring that innovations don’t just stay on the lab bench, but make their way into the marketplace where they can benefit taxpayers.

We also talk about how the FLC’s mission has expanded in recent years, from strategic realignment to new events, showcases, and tools designed to connect labs with industry. Paul reflects on the balance between virtual engagement, which grew during COVID-19, and the personal connections that remain the heartbeat of this work. And he shares what motivates him after years in this field: the satisfaction of seeing a product in the real world and knowing exactly which lab it came from. This is a conversation about history, impact, and the shared drive to turn research into results.

In This Episode:

[01:50] It's been 50 years since the FLC was formed in 1974. In 1945, Vannevar Bush sent Science The Endless Frontier to President Truman.

[02:20] This letter lays out how the laboratory infrastructure that won the war should be converted over to win the peace. It envisioned technology transfer, advancing science, and bringing new technology to the marketplace.

[03:36] Technology transfer is about completing the mission after the research.

[04:14] The Department of Defense formed the Defense Laboratory Consortium. It was a group of people with a similar mission.

[05:14] In 1974, the Department of Defense invited all the other agencies in and the FLC was formed.

[06:21] The Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act, the Bayh-Dole Act, and the Federal Technology Transfer Act changed and defined what we call tech transfer today. The first one was making tech transfer a mission for the laboratories.

[07:45] The Bayh-Dole Act formalizes the authorization for laboratories to manage their intellectual property. They can get patents and trademarks and license products.

[08:45] FTA helps set up public private partnerships or cooperative research and development agreements.

[09:49] The FLC Awards program recognizes excellence in the field. It also helps motivate people. If you want excellence and an ecosystem for tech transfer to grow, it needs to be recognized.

[11:08] One of the most prestigious awards is the Harold Metcalf Award. He put his own career on the line to get the consortium finally put into law.

[11:41] This is the FLC's 50th golden anniversary year. The national meeting is going to be in Dallas, Texas this year. They're also going to focus on where they've been and where they are going.

[12:58] Paul is a problem solver. He began his career in the army with a biology degree. He then worked in nuclear waste cleanup. The technology didn't exist and they had to create it. This problem solving was how he became involved in tech transfer.

[15:13] This path also led him to solving problems at the EPA and at the National Institute of Standards and Technology which all led to tech transfer.

[16:26] Some of the FLC's major accomplishments of the past decade include the growth. In 2020, the FLC board was realigned. They put promote, educate, and facilitate in the bylaws.

[17:25] Goals for the FLC in the next 5 to 10 years include expanding what they've already been doing. They are increasing tools and services, and having companies do reverse pitches to know what they are looking for.

[18:32] A lot of challenges stemmed from COVID. The technology and ability for people to work from home has really changed the world. The downside is losing that personal touch.

[20:26] The virtual world does offer a lower bar to entry.

[20:52] The cross agency community is the strength and the greatest part of the FLC.

Resources: 

Paul Zielinski LinkedIn

Federal Laboratory Consortium

Science The Endless Frontier

Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act

Bayh-Dole Act

Federal Technology Transfer Act

The FLC Harold Metcalf Service Award

In this special episode of The Transfer Files, we revisit one of our favorite conversations exploring how deep tech innovation finds its way into the world. I’m joined by Richard Amato, Executive Director of the Austin Technology Incubator (ATI), the country’s longest-running university-affiliated business incubator. And Jay Fraser, President and CEO of New Dominion Enterprises, a startup navigating the complex world of federal tech commercialization.

Richard shares how ATI has evolved over the decades to focus on high-stakes, high-impact technology, including clean energy, semiconductors, and medical devices. He highlights the power of tailored mentorship through ATI’s Texas Venture Mentor Service and what it really takes to support deep tech founders for the long haul.

Jay brings his lived experience to the table, sharing candid lessons from the frontlines of working with Idaho National Lab, building a startup around electrolyte technology, and learning how to translate groundbreaking science into something the market can understand and eventually adopt. His journey shines a light on the psychological and strategic challenges that entrepreneurs face, and the crucial role incubators like ATI can play in helping them navigate the “valley of death.”

This is a story about relationships, resilience, and redefining what it means to bring federal innovation to life.

In This Episode:

[03:09] ATI was launched 35 years ago. We discuss how it's changed and evolved over the years. In 2001, the clean energy incubator was launched.

[04:44] They've also launched a healthcare incubator and microelectronics incubator. 

[05:06] There's now a focus on R&D and technology.

[05:42] Deep tech is often hardware-based and comes out of a lab. It's also something that will take longer to get to market.

[07:32] We learn about TXVMS.

[08:53] New Dominion was started because Jay's previous company had a relationship with Idaho National Laboratory under a defense contract.

[10:02] Relationships are everything in technology transfer.

[12:21] It's challenging for small companies to license when working with federal laboratories

[17:23] We go over the multiple challenges of commercialization.

[19:26] Deeptech has a heavy high capital cost and a long time to market.

[21:18] The importance of understanding the motivation of the scientist in the first place.

[22:54] Richard talks about dealing with younger entrepreneurs. The age doesn't matter, but coachability does.

[26:34] With an incubator, it's the job to de-risk and get to market as soon as possible. This often leads to working with brutal honesty.

[28:36] Richard has been on both sides and sometimes the most important part is the psychological piece.

Resources: 

Richard Amato

Richard Amato Clean TX

Richard Amato ATI

Jay Fraser LinkedIn

New Dominion Enterprises, INC

Texas Venture Mentoring Service TEXVMS

In this episode I’m excited to speak with Gabe Mounce, the Director of Tech Engagement at the Air Force Research Laboratory or AFRL. We’ll explore topics like how public-private partnerships are reshaping the landscape of space innovation. We’ll learn how collaborations with incubators, accelerators, and universities are moving technology forward, and building up entire regional economies through innovation. 

From a solar array that now powers commercial satellites to an algorithm originally designed to predict health data that’s now monitoring satellite health, the stories in this episode are a compelling glimpse into the future of federal innovation, and the people helping bring it to life.

In This Episode:

[02:06] Gabe has been a career Air Force person. About 15 years ago he transferred into a civilian capacity at the Air Force Research Lab in New Mexico. They work on deploying satellite systems into space and directing energy like lasers.

[03:36] Around 2016, he was invited to join the tech transfer team.

[05:01] A lot of the work they do revolves around the science of real systems to increase spacecraft survivability and resilience in space.

[06:08] They were also pioneering the size of objects to put in space and advanced precision navigation and GPS.

[07:07] They transfer technology out of the lab and commercialize it by licensing the IP such as advanced solar cell technology. The commercial spacecraft sector has been growing.

[09:00] They call this growing commercialization tech transfer and transition or T3.

[10:40] Private sector companies like SpaceX we're just starting to showcase their work in 2017. A lot of companies who are now getting into the launch game are reusing their vehicles.

[12:26] The federal government has always been the biggest underwriter of the space sector. New commercial innovation is now bringing down cost.

[14:12] The distinction between the US Space Force and NASA.

[16:18] NASA has pushed the boundaries of space exploration, while the space force is focused on enabling the DoD and its defense mission.

[18:57] The assets and elements in Albuquerque and New Mexico that enable the regional ecosystem. They have strong motivation to take their expertise and get it into commercial endeavors.

[19:45] The Air Force utilizes the partnership intermediary agreement. They do a lot of work with New Mexico Tech.

[24:02] We learn about accelerators and collaboration to engage with the public. These programs are centered on ways to increase industrial based capacity and work with the federal government.

[25:26] The Rio Grande corridor and all of the investment by the government has a positive effect on the local economy.

[27:51] Gabe shares the "Space Valley" branding and how it's reached critical mass.

[29:18] We learn about a couple of success stories. Including one in solar cell technology. 

[32:37] How a private sector company discovered how to predict satellite failure during a Hyperspace Challenge.

[38:40] Gabe was recently elected to be the FLC's Regional Coordinator. He sees a lot of value in enabling the federal lab elements to work together with the other programs.

[44:02] How startup companies can gain the expertise of the lab employees.

Resources: 

Gabe Mounce - LinkedIn

Gabe@AFRLNewMexico.com

Gabe Mounce - New Mexico State University

Air Force Research Laboratory

SpaceWERX

Space is No Longer Just for Rocket Scientists and Engineers

In this episode, Stephen talks about how his start in marketing shaped the way he approaches tech transfer today. He shares how that experience still influences how he thinks about licensing, research agreements, and collaboration. We also get into the bigger picture of how tech transfer supports national security, why commercialization can be complicated in a working capital fund model, and what it really takes to connect the right people at the right time.

You’ll also hear success stories that range from software-defined radios and tactical communications to Wi-Fi antennas and even a brain supplement inspired by dolphin research. Steen’s insight offers a behind-the-scenes look at how innovation moves from lab to real-world impact and why staying connected, curious, and collaborative makes all the difference.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are those of the individual speaker and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific, the U.S. Government, or any affiliated organizations.

In This Episode:

[01:42] Stephen was a film student getting his master's degree at San Diego State University. He saw a job posting for making videos for the Navy. This job was exclusively doing videos for the tech transfer office.

[02:56] He worked there with a focus on marketing.

[06:10] From 2008 to 2015, the emphasis on marketing had increased. 

[10:11] He is currently the technology transfer office deputy and negotiates agreements.

[13:11] DoD is often the end customer with tech transfer.

[18:03] Addressing commercialization challenges.

[19:36] Part of the challenge is just knowing all of the products that are being worked on and connecting the right people.

[21:57] Defense contractors have independent research and development funds that can be used for any R&D purpose that aligns with the mission.

[27:13] An example of having the solutions and bringing technologies in to test and see if they do what they're supposed to do. 

[28:57] Matchmaking and getting the players involved. Empowering people and letting them know that these federal tools exist.

[30:41] Stephen shares some success stories involving waveforms and radio. 

[32:57] Another example using software that was able to control robot systems. 

[38:54] There are always unexpected and surprising success stories and technologies.

[39:38] Broad challenges and things that give him hope are an increase in partnering with the community. Matchmaking continues to be a challenge. 

Resources: 

Stephen Crutchfield - LinkedIn

Tech From Sea to Space: Inside T2 at the Navy With Paige George

TechLink

Technology Transfer Office at NIWC Pacific

Stephen’s path began when an MBA class unexpectedly ignited his interest in combining science and business, shaping a career that took him from Johns Hopkins to UMBC, and eventually TEDCO. He's always been deeply curious, drawn toward opportunities to turn innovation into something tangible whether it's startups solving real-world problems, or groundbreaking medical treatments that change lives. In our conversation, Stephen highlights the human side of technology transfer, from building trust to creating meaningful incentives for researchers to take risks.

We also dive into the tougher side of tech transfer: navigating the conservative cultures at federal labs and overcoming hurdles that keep great ideas from reaching their potential. Stephen talks openly about how initiatives like DefTech and the Maryland Innovation Initiative are tackling these challenges head-on. Plus, he gives down-to-earth advice for small businesses interested in partnering with federal labs, reminding us all that sometimes the biggest breakthroughs start with a simple conversation.

In This Episode:

[01:49] In college, Stephen had the chance to do an opportunity analysis for the federal labs when he was in an MBA program. Then they worked on business plans. Combining business and science peaked his interest.

[03:09] In 1993, he started working at the Office of Technology Licensing at Johns Hopkins.

[04:23] He was also really interested in startups and spin-off companies. At TEDCO, he has the opportunity to work with multiple universities.

[08:38] As The Engagement Officer, he focuses on federal lab transfer and looking at federal grants.

[10:48] The idea of having dual missions for Federal Labs and getting Innovations into the commercial sector.

[12:33] How the culture has evolved since he started working with Federal Labs. 

[14:28] Commercialization helps the technology that these people develop help people. There is satisfaction in helping patients with what you develop in the lab.

[15:10] Supporting tech transfer in Maryland. They've had a lot of interesting companies and technology that has spun off.

[17:34] Commercialization challenges and opportunities and how they differ between university tech transfer and federal labs.

[18:28] He'd like to see federal labs take more risk.

[21:28] Trends in federal tech transfer and how it's shaping the future.

[25:05] There are little things inventors can do to help create impact and commercialize things that will help people.

[26:07] The challenge of matching the Innovation with the problem that it's going to solve.

[28:40] Upcoming TEDCO initiatives including DefTech and grants. 

Resources: 

Stephen Auvil - TEDCO

Stephen Auvil - LinkedIn

Kathleen Otto-Rosenblum: Connecting Bioscience Innovation to Industry in North Texas

Lessons From a Tech Transfer Trailblazer With Katharine Ku

Phil gets candid about the real challenges innovators face everything from assembling the right team to recognizing when a pivot is overdue. It’s not enough to have brilliant technology; you have to learn to tell its story in plain English, too. Along the way, he shares inspiring success stories, from a team that turned fungus into fire-resistant packaging to another group whose imaging tools help surgeons clear cancer more effectively. You’ll also hear how hands-on programs like I-Corps and Flip Space are opening doors to federal lab inventions that might otherwise stay hidden.

By the end of our chat, you’ll understand why a thriving innovation ecosystem depends on collaboration and strong support to help the best ideas truly flourish. Whether you’re mentoring someone just starting out or you’re the one with an inspiring idea, Phil’s down-to-earth insights and decades of experience offer a clear roadmap for making science-driven entrepreneurship more inclusive, effective, and ultimately, more impactful.

In This Episode:

[01:55] Phil has been leading VentureWell since 1996. It all began with an idea to create pathways and educational experiences for people interested in innovation and entrepreneurship.

[03:35] The vision was to create a national organization that would encourage and promote higher education and research institutions in creating these pathways.

[04:12] He's a strong believer in experiential education.

[05:01] They've now worked with hundreds of institutions and thousands of innovators in partnership with higher education, philanthropy, and federal agencies.

[06:17] They help with all of the steps to take an idea from the lab to commercialization. They are eliminating the hurdles that many startup innovators have had to go through.

[07:36] Every scientist who wants to get involved in innovation should be literate in the tools of business.

[08:42] Entrepreneurs need to figure out what they don't know, including what others may think of their idea.

[11:23] I-Corps is an entrepreneurial training program that facilitates the transformation of invention to impact.

[14:04] Startups they've supported have raised over 6 billion dollars in funding.

[18:47] They've had high levels of success getting into business and with 5-year survival rates of startups.

[20:56] They try to create welcoming environments where people feel like they belong as opposed to reinforcing barriers.

[24:21] Phil talks about the FLIPspace program.

[26:34] We learn about recent success stories from new diagnostic imaging to detect cancer cells and working with fungus for broad uses. 

[29:36] Exciting emerging trends include reducing the innovation cycle in multiple areas. 

[34:35] Invention is one of the underlying values that makes the US different. Embracing inventions to improve prosperity is going to grow.

[35:54] Advice includes getting started. You'll discover what you need to know by starting. 

Resources: 

Phil Weilerstein - VentureWell

Phil Weilerstein - LinkedIn

VentureWell

I-Corps

FLIPspace

Under her leadership, BioNTX has become a critical force in supporting early-stage bioscience companies with commercialization pathways, investor access, and strategic partnerships. She’s especially passionate about what she calls the “connective tissue” or the trusted relationships that move science from bench to bedside. Kathleen also shares how their growing collaboration with the Federal Laboratory Consortium is opening up new opportunities for innovation, including ways to shine a light on underutilized federal research and rebuild trust in government-funded science.

Kathleen walks us through what it takes to build a thriving biotech hub, why regulatory planning can’t be an afterthought, and how the iC³: Innovation = Capital x Collaboration x Commercialization is becoming a magnet for regional and national stakeholders. Whether you’re a scientist, entrepreneur, or tech transfer professional, this conversation is full of practical insights and inspiring examples of how connection fuels innovation.

In This Episode:

[02:25] After spending her career on the East Coast, she moved to Texas during COVID. She's now been at BioNTX for four years, and it's been a pleasure.

[03:11] BioNTX is the leading advocate for biosciences and healthcare innovation relating to economic development in Texas.

[04:06] The network and ecosystem depends on the university level. 

[05:00] The biggest challenge facing early stage bioscience and healthcare companies today is funding.

[06:02] Strong partnerships are needed to get the science to the patients. BioNTX has recently partnered with the FLC. They look forward to strengthening the pipeline between federally funded R&D to industry application.

[07:08] Serial entrepreneurs are looking for opportunities to take science out into the world.

[07:49] Kathleen shares information about the iC3.

[09:46] They want to focus on the cutting edge technology available at the FLC for early stage startups along with opportunities for licensing, collaborative R&D, joint ventures, and networking.

[11:40] Obstacles are funding and learning how to move from proof of concept to market ready. Scaling can also be challenging. 

[13:01] BioNTX helps provide industry networks, partnerships, funding opportunities, and regulatory help.

[14:30] We learn about a success story involving an international partnership with Belgium and improving logistics to transport medicines and bioscience materials. 

[18:04] Texas is becoming a national leader in biotech and life sciences.

[19:31] AI and using it throughout the industry is going to be the thread through the entire summit.

[21:45] Entrepreneurs who are trying to bring Innovations to Market should build a network with experts and funding partners. Join an organization like BioNTX to get connected to a community.

Resources: 

Kathleen Otto-Rosenblum - BioNTX

Kathleen Otto-Rosenblum - LinkedIn

2025 iC3 Summit

In this episode, I’m joined by Brian Darmody, Chief Strategy Officer of the Association of University Research Parks, also known as AURP. Brian brings decades of experience at the intersection of higher education, government, and entrepreneurship. He shares how research parks serve as dynamic hubs that connect universities, federal labs, startups, and industry partners. These spaces do more than house offices. They foster ecosystems where ideas can grow into real-world solutions and talent can stay rooted in the regions that need it most.

We talk about the origins of research parks, how they’ve evolved into full-scale innovation districts, and why they’re more relevant than ever. Whether you’re part of a tech transfer office, work in economic development, or just want a better understanding of how place-based innovation really works, this is a conversation that connects the dots in a way few others can.

In This Episode:

[01:39] Brian shares how he got into this field.

[02:48] The Bayh-Dole Act passed in 1980. As an entrepreneurial oriented lawyer he wanted to start a tech transfer office.

[05:50] We learn how Brian was introduced to the Association of University Research Parks.

[06:09] AURP was formed in 1986. It was started by Stanford University which is the world's first research park.

[10:30] Research parks that have had a major impact on commercialization and economic growth like Stanford and Research Triangle.

[13:26] Things you can do to make your ecosystem more fertile if you're not in a hub like Silicon Valley.

[15:26] Trends and how universities and research institutions are supporting startups and tech commercialization.

[17:27] Biggest challenges facing innovation districts today include real estate issues.

[19:47] How Federal Labs can engage with these innovation hubs to help maximize impact. Every federal lab should have a plan to develop partnerships outside the gate.

[22:53] A lot of work at research parks needs to be done in person, because you need equipment. A lot of the work is collaborative.

[24:17] Brian feels that these research labs are only going to grow. There will be a blurring of where the research park and the campus is.

[25:26] Advice includes thinking outside the box!

Resources: 

AURP Leadership - Brian Darmody

Brian Darmody - LinkedIn

Lessons From a Tech Transfer Trailblazer With Katharine Ku

Today I’m joined by David Kistin, Senior Manager of Technology and Economic Development at Sandia National Laboratories, part of the Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration. David also serves as Vice Chair of the Federal Laboratory Consortium’s Executive Board. I caught up with him during the 2025 AUTM Annual Meeting outside Washington, DC, where we talked about how Sandia and Los Alamos labs are fueling innovation, supporting startups, and building new opportunities through initiatives like the Sandia Science and Technology Park.

David also shared why mentorship is such a personal passion for him and how the FLC’s mentorship program is helping to strengthen the next generation of tech transfer professionals. Whether you are new to tech transfer or looking to expand your network, David’s insights offer valuable perspective on building a stronger, more connected innovation community.

In This Episode:

[02:01] David is part of the Integrated Partnerships Organization at Sandia. His focus is on economic development and leveraging innovation and IP at the labs for New Mexico.

[02:30] The Sandia Science and Tech Park just celebrated its 25th year and so this is a tech park that's adjacent to the Sandia National Laboratories in Albuquerque.

[03:36] The labs in New Mexico go back 75 years. They have incredible universities and amazing researchers.

[04:30] Some of the broad technologies they work on include providing no cost technical assistance to businesses and helping companies get there technology to the marketplace.

[05:51] We learn about Quantum New Mexico.

[06:37] David shares how he got involved in tech transfer when he was working in economic development.

[07:36] We learn about the FLC mentorship program.

[08:53] Surprises include the need to keep licensing agreements broad. 

[10:15] Reach out if there's something you're interested in or want to build your network.

Resources: 

David Kistin - LinkedIn

Sandia Science & Technology Park

Federal Laboratory Consortium Mentorship Program

Bill worked as a scientist at Fermilab for decades before entering politics, where he helped discover the top quark, the heaviest known subatomic particle. He also co-founded a theater lighting company with his brother at just 19 years old, a company that went on to supply the majority of theater lighting equipment in the United States. That unique blend of scientific discovery and entrepreneurial grit gives Bill a rare and valuable perspective on why technology transfer and federal innovation matter so much.

In this conversation, Bill shares why federal labs are critical to both U.S. competitiveness and the future of science-driven business. We talk about the essential role of tech transfer programs, how access to advice and resources can make or break a startup, and why collaboration between labs, industry, and policymakers is more important than ever. If you care about turning big ideas into real-world impact, this is a conversation you will not want to miss.

In This Episode:

[02:08] At Fermilab, Congressman Foster helped discover the top quark, the heaviest known form of matter, a single subatomic particle that weighs more than an atom of gold and helped build giant particle accelerators.

[03:01] After his scientific career, he's proud to represent science and the labs in Congress.

[04:03] He also started a business with his brother and many of their resources were from the lab at the University where he worked.

[05:30] The business now has 1500 employees and makes $450 million a year. On the 50th Anniversary, they transferred to an employee stock ownership plan and now the business is 100% owned by the employees who built it.

[06:14] Having access to labs is a healthy part of science and business.

[07:39] FLC also celebrated 50 years of existence last year.

[08:44] When technology is moving rapidly, that's the time you can find an unexplored niche.

[09:15] An important role of the labs is to work on technologies before they're ready for commercialization.

[10:44] Having a team of scientists at a National Lab gives you a leg up when it's time to decide policy.

[11:22] Labs provide industrial cooperation and coordination. 

[14:19] With his experience on the Financial Services Committee and the R&D Caucus, Congressman Foster talks about public private partnerships and economic growth.

[16:29] One of the biggest challenges is doing something reasonable with international collaboration.

[19:01] Congressman Foster shares why he left physics and got into politics, because he wants to right wrongs and make a difference.

[20:24] We learn about his past coding experience and his nickname of Damn Fast Foster.

[21:29] AI agents will be the equivalent of having really good workers.

[22:45] If you want to influence Congress, make an appointment with your representative in your home state.

Resources: 

Congressman Bill Foster

Congressman Bill Foster - X

Congressman Bill Foster - Facebook

Congressman Bill Foster - Instagram

Fermilab

Glen has been in the game for over 20 years, and he’s built deep relationships across federal labs and universities. He shares how he got his start recruiting for Oak Ridge National Lab, what hiring managers are really looking for today, and why the expectations for candidates have shifted so dramatically. We also dig into the tension between wanting someone who can “hit the ground running” versus making space for newcomers to grow into roles. Glen offers a behind-the-scenes look at what separates good teams from great ones and how culture, leadership, and mentorship all play a part.

If you’re navigating your next move in tech transfer—or trying to build a team that can do more than just manage IP—this conversation will give you real insight into what works, what’s changing, and why Glen believes that cross-pollination between academia, industry, and federal labs is the key to the future of innovation.

In This Episode:

[01:41] We learn how Glen got into the tech transfer space. He started out as an IT recruiter and was asked to find someone to help commercialize intellectual property. 

[02:42] Glen shares his inspiration for Gardner Innovation Search Partners.

[04:03] His firm specializes in talent acquisition for tech transfer, IP, licensing, and innovation leadership. Recruits need a background in all of this plus possible specialization in specific desired areas. 

[05:25] The landscape of hiring in tech transfer has become more narrow as it has progressed. There's only about 10,000 people in the world who do this.

[07:35] People who can hit the ground running and have cradle-to-grave experience are highly desired.

[09:09] The importance of cross-pollinating in the federal lab community and adding diversity of thought.

[10:02] The importance of having a network in tech transfer. Attend conferences and meet with people.

[11:07] AUTM has a mentoring program that can help junior people. The FLC also has a pilot mentoring program.

[11:59] What separates a good leader from an average leader?

[13:44] Specialized recruiters know the backstory of candidates.

[15:50] There's a need for more people in tech transfer. 

[16:31] We talk about incorporating AI into the process. It's a work in progress.

[18:39] Get involved in the FLC. Use the app and meet people. Network and reach across the aisle. Volunteer and get on committees.

Resources: 

Gardner Innovation Search Partners

Glen Gardner - LinkedIn

FLC Learning Center

Leading with Vision: Dr. John Kaplan on Growing the VA’s T2 Program

In this episode, I sit down with Katharine to talk about how she built Stanford’s tech licensing office into one of the most successful in the country, her philosophy on taking chances when it comes to licensing, and the biggest challenges tech transfer offices face today. Katharine shares the story behind the Nine Points to Consider in Licensing University Technology, which is a framework she helped create that guides universities in making licensing decisions to benefit both researchers and the public.  

She also reflects on how the role of tech transfer offices has expanded beyond just licensing. More and more, they’re being asked to support entrepreneurship, provide funding, and help build startup ecosystems. She talks about how universities are trying to balance these responsibilities while still keeping their core mission in focus. Whether you're an entrepreneur, researcher, or just curious about how university research turns into real-world products, this conversation is full of insights you won’t want to miss.

In This Episode:

[01:52] During Katharine's early career, she was a serial job changer. She noticed a posting at Stanford for a patent engineer. She thought she might give it a shot, since she had a patent at Monsanto and she was also an engineer.

[02:54] This was at the end of 1979. She was involved in the tech transfer profession in the very early years.

[03:21] She became president of AUTM in 1988.

[04:10] She led the Stanford Office of Technology for 27 years. 

[05:31] Stanford was always very entrepreneurial and supportive of the faculty.

[06:15] They've always believed in marketing and the philosophy of taking chances. The goal was to move the research results into the private sector in order to help the public.

[07:56] With the cradle-to-grave model you have to know everything along the path of innovation.

[08:15] The vision for the Stanford office was to do as many licenses as possible.

[09:20] Google came out of Stanford. 

[11:26] Katharine talks about the Nine Points to Consider in Licensing University Technology. 

[13:54] The first point had to do with retaining the right for people at our university and other universities to practice any invention a university would file on.

[15:29] This was an example of a university's understanding of the broader mission of tech transfer.

[16:07] Challenges include having to do more and more. They have more responsibility to create an entrepreneurial ecosystem.

[18:28] Advice for bridging the gap between universities and industry.

[19:57] Katharine talks about her role at Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati.

[21:25] Advice includes being at the intersection of technology, science, business, and law, as well as university, industry, and government, making it a very exciting field. There's endless things to learn. Stay curious!

Resources: 

Katharine Ku - Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati

Katharine Ku - LinkedIn

Office of Technology Licensing

Nine Points to Consider in Licensing University Technology

AUTM 2025 Annual Meeting

Throughout this season, we've welcomed guests from a wide range of fields, including government, startups, incubators, venture capital firms, and more. Today, we're revisiting some of the season's highlights, beginning at the very start.

This year marked the 50th anniversary of the Federal Laboratory Consortium (FLC), which was established in 1974. However, the origins of federal technology transfer can be traced back to several decades earlier. 

FLC Executive Director Paul Zielinski explains that the catalyst was the 1945 report "Science, the Endless Frontier," submitted to President Truman by Vannevar Bush, the then-Director of the Government's Office of Scientific Development.

We also look back at the milestones, challenges, and successes that have defined this field. We learn about landmark legislation like the Bayh-Dole Act with Joe Allen, the Executive Director of the Bayh-Dole Coalition. 

Paige George, Technology Transfer Manager at the Naval Surface Warfare Center, shares insights on how the Navy focuses on dual-use technologies in different industries. 

Christopher Campbell, CEO and Founder of Simplify Automation, talks about how his company licensed NASA's "electronic nose" technology. Robert G. Heard, Founder and Managing Director of Cimarron Capital Partners, discusses his approach to building entrepreneurial ecosystems. 

Michael Salgaller, Supervisory Technology Analysis and Marketing Specialist at the National Cancer Institute, offers tips on effectively communicating and marketing federal technologies to potential licensees.

In This Episode:

[02:22] The letter lays out how the infrastructure built for the federal laboratory system, should be converted over to additional uses. Technology transfer is a natural extension of what the government has already been doing.

[03:04] Technology transfer is completing the mission after the research.

[03:46] Paul takes us back to before the FLC was established in 1974.

[04:43] When all laboratories combined, that was the beginning of the FLC.

[05:44] Key laws that encouraged the growth of the FLC include the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act, the Federal Technology Transfer Act, and the Bayh-Dole Act.

[05:59] Joe Allen talks about the Bayh-Dole Act. 

[07:39] We hear from Paige George, Technology Transfer Manager at Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division. She explains how tech transfer works at the Navy. 

[12:34] Paige shares an example of the divers augmented vision display system. 

[13:15] Chris Campbell, CEO and founder of Simplify Automation shares his perspective. His business Simpli-Fi, licensed a technology from NASA called an electronic nose.

[17:16] Ecosystems are a must. This is how his team was introduced to the system.

[18:45] Robert Heard, the founder and managing director of Cimarron Capital Partners and Development Capital Networks has spent decades building and nourishing entrepreneurial ecosystems on a regional level. 

[23:36] Many of the best technologies that a business needs are still in the lab.

[24:30] Michael Salgaller, Supervisory Technology Analysis and Marketing Specialist talks about effective communication, collaborating, and marketing.

Resources: 

The Legacy of Problem-Solving: The Evolution of The FLC With Paul Zielinski

Paul Zielinski - LinkedIn

Science The Endless Frontier

Statement by President Truman - National Science Foundation

Joseph Allen - LinkedIn

From Legislation to Innovation: Joe Allen and the Birth of the Bayh-Dole Act

Paige George - LinkedIn

Tech From Sea to Space: Inside T2 at the Navy With Paige George

Christopher Campbell - LinkedIn

The Power of Ecosystems: Entrepreneurs’ Key to Tech Transfer Success with Chris Campbell

Robert G. Heard - Cimarron Capital Partners

Building Entrepreneurial Ecosystems And Boosting Local Economies With Robert Heard

Michael Salgaller - LinkedIn

Marketing From All Angles With Michael Salgaller

Ami and Balki share how NCATS is breaking barriers, from pioneering the use of human organoids to creating innovative collaboration models with external researchers. You’ll hear real-world examples of success, like the development of Metarrestin, a promising cancer treatment, and a partnership with Cincinnati Children’s that’s driving advancements in therapies for rare blood disorders.

If you’ve ever wondered how federal labs work to bring life-changing technologies to market or what it takes to accelerate the path from research to real-world impact, this episode is for you. Get ready to be inspired by the people, the mission, and the progress shaping the future of medicine.

Ami Gadhia is a senior technology transfer and patenting specialist at NCATS' Office of Strategic Alliances, where she facilitates collaborations, negotiates agreements, and oversees intellectual property rights in joint research and development projects. She began her technology transfer career at Johns Hopkins University, advancing to lead licensing teams across medical devices, imaging, and compliance. 

Before Hopkins, Ami practiced IP law, prosecuting patents and managing trademarks, copyrights, and licensing for diverse clients. She holds a B.S. in chemical engineering and a J.D., both with honors from Wayne State University, as well as a master’s in IP law from George Washington University. Ami is a certified licensing professional, registered patent attorney, and active industry speaker.

Krishna (Balki) Balakrishnan is the director of NCATS’ Office of Strategic Alliances (OSA), where he leads a team managing partnerships, technology transfer, and commercialization efforts. He oversees strategic collaborations, licensing, and intellectual property protection, ensuring the success of NCATS’ scientific endeavors. 

Balki also directs the NCATS Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs, supporting small businesses through education and resources. Prior to joining NCATS in 2011, he held leadership roles at NIH and in the biotech industry, including executive director at the Foundation for Advanced Education in the Sciences and vice president at Covance. Balki’s extensive experience bridges science, business, and innovation.

In This Episode:

[01:49] The National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS) breaks down the barriers that stand in the way of drug discovery and development.

[02:17] Balki explains NCATS which was established in December of 2011. The system is dedicated to reducing barriers that stand in the way of drug discovery and development. They want to get more treatment to more people more quickly.

[05:02] NIH's dual role in the scientific ecosystem as a funder of research through our extramural staff and an active doer of research through intramural labs makes it a uniquely powerful scientific organization.

[06:16] Balki shares an example of how NCATS was able to combine the powers of internal research and external grant funding.

[07:20] Human organoids have become more and more predictive of drug toxicity and efficacy.

[09:14] Confidential Disclosure Agreement, or a CDA, which is a gateway agreement to facilitate discussions among scientists so that they may share information. There are also MTAs and a variety of collaboration agreements.

[12:13] Applying research and the principle behind tech transfer and how it intersects.

[15:32] NCATS has taken the lead to develop Metarrestin, a promising cancer drug.

[19:02] Ami shares an example of collaboration.

[21:08] NCATS reduces barriers to earlier stage drug discovery and development to avoid risk for investors.

[25:36] Balki talks about licensing deals and tech transfer. He's glad he works in tech transfer full-time at NIH.

[26:58] Ami worked on technology transfer policy for international jurisdictions when she was at the International Intellectual Property Institute.

[28:20] Tech transfer brings together a lot of disciplines. Collaboration has been a source of success and job satisfaction for Balki. 

[31:05] Biggest challenges facing the federal tech transfer community today.

[35:23] Marketing and staff challenges are both issues. 

Resources: 

Ami Gadhia

Ami Gadhia LinkedIn

Balki Balakrishnan

Balki Balakrishnan LinkedIn

Marketing From All Angles: The Transfer Files Podcast Episode Out Now

Michael’s career is nothing short of fascinating. Before returning to NCI, he was a Vice President at The Conafay Group, where he worked on healthcare alliances. He also served as President of Biologics Consulting Group, spent time as a venture capitalist investing in early-stage life science companies, and led groundbreaking cancer therapy research as Vice President of R&D at Northwest Biotherapeutics.  

He started his career at NCI as a Senior Scientist working with Dr. Steve Rosenberg and has since gone on to do so much more. He’s the author of Biotechnology Entrepreneurship: From Science to Solutions, teaches entrepreneurship at NIH, and even supports pediatric and veterinary cancer research through his work with Canines-N-Kids. Oh, and he’s published over 70 scientific and business articles—just to round it all out!  

In this conversation, Michael shares some of the marketing strategies he uses at NCI and offers tips anyone can use to improve how they communicate, whether in a lab, an office, or beyond.  

In This Episode:

[02:02] Balancing marketing to such a vast array of different audiences. They get background on which stakeholder group they are a part of providing information to make the conversation as interesting as possible.

[03:11] Because there's so much sensitive data, they only market publicly available information.

[03:53] His team has two full-time people and a series of postdocs and postbacs that help with the effort. They're in one of the nine satellite technology transfer offices at the NIH.

[04:43] They don't speak for all of NIH, but they like to help all of NIH.

[05:35] Marketing tips and strategies include making an effort to communicate at the level of your audience. Understand what they're interested in before you pitch.

[08:36] The importance of checking in and closing the communication loop.

[11:10] Michael talks about mentoring inventors on how to approach industry.

[14:27] We learn about the technology analysis and marketing unit and what Michael has termed as inside and outside in marketing.

[18:17] They also hold information webinars.

[19:05] Michael shares the New Technology Showcase that usually features cancer technology. The primary purpose is to attract 

partners and licensees.

[21:40] One of the biggest challenges is awareness.

[25:27] They want to talk to companies about how amazing scientists and technologists can help the company.

[27:01] Michael talks about changes that he's seen over the last 20 years.

[30:24] Michael gives a tip on reaching out to new people and new connections when you attend conferences to broaden your network. Look for attendees that will be potential collaborators and licensees.

[31:46] Learn about your technology area and how to be attractive to the business side.

Resources: 

Michael Salgaller NIH 240-276-5476

michael.salgaller@nih.gov

Michael Salgaller LinkedIn

Biotechnology Entrepreneurship from Science to Solutions

2024 Technology Showcase

Richard Amato, Executive Director of the Austin Technology Incubator (ATI) at the University of Texas, and Jay Frazier, President and CEO of New Dominion Enterprises. Together, they uncover the unique challenges and opportunities inherent in deep tech, also known as hard tech—an area defined by innovations based on cutting-edge scientific discoveries.

Richard leads ATI, the longest-running deep tech incubator in the country. Affiliated with UT Austin, ATI has a history of fostering disruptive technologies that require extensive R&D, substantial investment, and unwavering persistence. With decades of experience under his belt, Richard shares insights from his work, which includes founding the Clean Energy Incubator at ATI and launching his own alternative energy company. 

In addition to his leadership role, Richard serves as faculty at UT Austin’s McCombs School of Business, where he continues to nurture the next generation of tech entrepreneurs. For him, deep tech is all about pushing boundaries, whether it’s in clean energy, medical devices, or the latest advancements in microelectronics.

Jay’s company specializes in developing safer lithium batteries using licensed federal technology, and brings a unique perspective on the commercialization process. With a background in marketing, R&D, and years of experience navigating the tech transfer ecosystem, Jay emphasizes the vital role of mentorship and advisory support from organizations like ATI. 

Richard and Jay offer a candid look at the grit and determination required to bring transformative innovations to market. Tune in to discover the resilience and tenacity behind some of today’s most advanced technologies.

In This Episode:

[03:09] ATI was launched 35 years ago. We discuss how it's changed and evolved over the years. In 2001, the clean energy incubator was launched.

[04:44] They've also launched a healthcare incubator and microelectronics incubator. 

[05:06] There's now a focus on R&D and technology.

[05:42] Deep tech is often hardware-based and comes out of a lab. It's also something that will take longer to get to market.

[07:32] We learn about TXVMS.

[08:53] New Dominion was started because Jay's previous company had a relationship with Idaho National Laboratory under a defense contract.

[10:02] Relationships are everything in technology transfer.

[12:21] It's challenging for small companies to license when working with federal laboratories

[17:23] We go over the multiple challenges of commercialization.

[19:26] Deeptech has a heavy high capital cost and a long time to market.

[21:18] The importance of understanding the motivation of the scientist in the first place.

[22:54] Richard talks about dealing with younger entrepreneurs. The age doesn't matter, but coachability does.

[26:34] With an incubator, it's the job to de-risk and get to market as soon as possible. This often leads to working with brutal honesty.

[28:36] Richard has been on both sides and sometimes the most important part is the psychological piece.

Resources: 

Richard Amato

Richard Amato Clean TX

Richard Amato ATI

Jay Fraser LinkedIn

New Dominion Enterprises, INC

Texas Venture Mentoring Service TEXVMS

Paul is a co-founder and managing partner of Brown Venture Group, a venture capital firm that focuses on Black, Latino, and Indigenous technology startups. Paul has an impressive background in music, tech, and entrepreneurship. 

In this episode we talk about the NASA Inclusive Innovation Mash-up Lab, an initiative brought to life by Brown Venture Capital and NASA. The Innovation Mash-up Lab is meant to empower underrepresented entrepreneurs and contributors to find opportunities through federal tech transfer.

Paul breaks it all down for us and shares how this initiative is opening doors for those who have historically been left out of the conversation. 

In This Episode:

[01:41] Paul has been an entrepreneur since he was a teenager. He worked in the music industry and eventually discovered things like Y Combinator and venture capital.

[03:15] Innovation is a blending of different ideas, just like a music mashup. A mashup lab is often used to solve problems.

[05:00] We learn how a mashup with a wine press ended up leading to the printing press.

[06:11] The study of behavioral economics is a great tool to take complex ideas and whittle it down into something usable.

[07:11] Ask good questions and whittle everything down to a manageable set of opportunities.

[08:54] When NASA reached out, Paul began talking to people in different industries. The question was what would they do if they could harvest NASA technology. They learned about the technology commercialization process. 

[11:06] The group decided to land a relationship with NASA and work strategically. This was the beginning of the NASA Inclusive Innovation Mash-up Lab.

[11:52] They were focusing on the medical side and the aviation fuel side.

[12:29] They needed an expert in technology and an expert in entrepreneurship.

[14:08] This is the beginning of the journey for the commercialization process.

[15:06] After the mashup lab, the entrepreneurs get to have conversations with investors. 

[15:58] Licensing a technology through a federal lab opens many doors and opportunities to entrepreneurship.

[17:33] The licensing technology from a federal lab helps de-risk the investment.

[19:05] The program helps close the relationship gap. 

Resources: 

Dr. Paul Campbell LinkedIn

Brown Venture Group

NASA Inclusive Innovation Mashup Lab

In this episode, Tara Kirby, director of the National Institutes of Health's Office of Technology Transfer, takes us on a journey through federal innovation. Tara has a unique viewpoint to technology transfer, having gone from pursuing a PhD in biophysics to directing one of the federal government's most complicated technology transfer organizations.

Our chat with Tara reveals the obstacles and successes of adopting the ETT, a project that transformed how the NIH organizes and exchanges critical research data across its 27 institutes and centers.

We investigate the complexities of tech transfer at the NIH, the process of producing ETT, and the enormous benefits it offers to efficiency and transparency. Tara also provides useful insights for other agencies considering similar projects and addresses future possibilities, such as the potential role of AI in technology transfer.

Join us as we explore how this unique approach is hastening the route of ideas from lab to marketplace, demonstrating the devotion and inventiveness of NIH tech transfer workers in bringing early-stage technologies to the public.

In This Episode:

[01:56] We learn a little bit about Tara and how she got involved in Tech Transfer.

[02:46] She actually used NIH resources to discover where she could use her scientific background.

[05:10] Tara talks about the different service levels of tech transfer offices and how  OTT is the umbrella organization for everything.

[06:26] Their biggest priority was putting together a new Enterprise Technology Transfer system called ETT. They wanted all of the information of all offices and centers to be combined in one streamlined system.

[07:18] Before people had to cross reference nine databases, and they also didn't always have access.

[08:06] They began with a needs assessment and expert project management contractors. 

[09:02] Once they found a platform and a vendor, it was time to migrate the data from all of the systems. The data migration was a multi-stage process that took about a week. This was after months and months of testing.

[10:42] Testing the system has been an ongoing process.

[12:36] They're already seeing positive outcomes from the new system.

[13:22] NIH is unique, because it is so big with so many different components. An important factor with the new system is to communicate what people actually need to do their jobs.

[14:09] Be flexible but prepared for a lot of different ideas. Also be careful and back everything up, because you may think something's not needed but it will turn out it is needed.

[15:07] They've also completed things not connected to the new system. The new system has already made big improvements to abstracts and information about patents and technologies online becoming more efficient. 

[17:39] We talk about the future of the system and possibly bringing AI into it.

[18:59] Tara wishes people knew how much expertise and dedication is required to get NIH Technologies to the public. The NIH is full of very hardworking professionals.

Resources: 

Tara Kirby (NIH)

Tary Kirby LinkedIn

Will Artificial Intelligence Shape The Future Of Technology Transfer?

A Guide For Licensing Professionals

Leading with Vision: Dr. John Kaplan on Growing the VA’s T2 Program

Tyrome is a seasoned consultant and leader with over 25 years of experience in human and organizational dynamics. He has developed innovative educational programs for the Department of Defense, coached product teams in an internal incubator, and supported organizations as faculty or entrepreneur-in-residence. 

He is a Fellow of the AK Rice Institute and serves on the NIST Manufacturing Extension Partnership Advisory Board. He holds a BA in Speech Communication, an MA in Human Communication, and executive certificates from UCLA and UC Berkeley. His career, influenced by early work as a police officer and with adolescents, reflects a commitment to understanding human systems dynamics.

In our discussion, Tyrome and I explore several interesting topics. We talk about the difference between problem-solving and solutioneering, why ecosystems make 1 plus 1 plus 1 equal 111, and how to tap into the next generation of innovators and entrepreneurs.

Note: At the time of recording, Tyrome was the director of strategic partnerships at the Common Mission Project, a nonprofit that offers university programs that develop mission-driven entrepreneurs. 

While he's no longer in that position, our discussion about his work there remains relevant to the broader topics we covered.

In This Episode:

[02:41] We learn about Tyrome's role as the Director of Strategic Partnerships for the Common Mission Project. 

[04:55] One of their most successful projects was Capella Space. 

[06:27] Tyrome is helping a whole new generation discover tech transfer. 

[07:15] We talk about the difference between invention and innovation. 

[08:47] The idea of creating value and solutioneering.

[10:10] Tyrome talks about coaching inventors and innovators on assumptions of what must be true to create value for a customer.

[14:26] We learn about Dr. Lister who discovered that people were dying during surgery, because doctors weren't washing their hands. Anecdotally, Listerine comes from the name of Dr. Lister.

[15:52] We need to find the technology to solve the problem.

[17:07] Tech transfer commercialization at the HBCU community. 

[21:25] They're trying to figure out how to tap into tech transfer commercialization and the SBIR space while not replicating business models that don't work.

[23:42] Systems for networking are being built across the HBCU community.

[26:19] The importance of having an abundance mentality as opposed to a scarcity mentality.

[29:49] Tyrome loves systems and is a systems thinker. 

[32:53] Being able to understand business models of technology will help with commercialization and tech transfer.

[36:09] Tyrome is excited about the opportunities at the FLC and NASA. He wants systems to be able to find each other. 

Resources: 

FLC

FLC Education

Tyrome Smith LinkedIn

Tyrome Smith NIST

Capella Space

Steve Blank

NASA MSI Exchange

Our guest today has sat in more than one of those seats over a career spanning more than 40 years in research and development management. Dick Paul served a 33-year career in the Air Force, working in three Air Force laboratories, leading as the first commander of the Air Force Research Laboratory, and retiring as a Major General.

After his military service, Dick became a vice president at Boeing, where he helped lead research and technology for commercial aircraft and defense-related products and systems.

Dick has also served on the National Science Foundation’s Small Business Innovation Research Advisory Committee and on numerous boards of directors, including chairing the board of the Innovation Research Interchange and vice-chairing the board of the Seattle Symphony Orchestra. He is currently the chair of the FLC’s National Advisory Council, and in our conversation, we discuss how his diverse background influences his work in that role.

We also dive into some of the biggest challenges facing technology transfer and how to overcome them, how senior leaders can foster success, and more. 

In This Episode:

[03:15] The most revealing part of Dick's experience with tech transfer was when he was Commander of the Air Force Research Lab.

[04:04] He learned how important it was for senior leadership to support orders and tech transfer. 

[05:01] Technology transition is taking technologies and moving those to support the military mission. Transfer is using the same technologies for non-military missions.

[07:07] One of the most surprising things he discovered is that the industry doesn't know about Federal labs and tech transfer.  We need to focus on educating industry and startups on the existence of federal labs and the T2 mission.

[09:43]  Dick was involved in Boeing's research and development activities. Boeing had an external technology office whose mission was to understand what Boeing's needs were and then reach out to companies and find technologies that can meet those needs.

[11:10]  Advice includes being proactive about putting yourself in the other player's shoes. This includes going to meetings, tech fairs, and SBIR phase two conferences. 

[12:10] Industry should go to lab days and visit Federal labs when they can. Industry wants to talk to the scientists and the engineers who have the technologies.

[13:17] The NAC is able to advise the FLC's executive board. The NAC is to have a broad diversity of experience.

[14:51] The NAC should only work on topics that the FLC is interested in.

[16:46] Some of the things they work on is how to enhance the tech transformation for the federal labs. FLC operations is another broad category.

[18:42] Dick talks about some of the biggest challenges affecting members of the federal tech transfer ecosystem. He feels one of the greatest opportunities is connecting Federal labs with industry people.

[19:27] Identify industry technology needs and seek solutions. Be strategic about these connections.

[21:17] NAC provides advice and the FLC can use it where applicable.

[22:34] There are all kinds of volunteer opportunities in the FLC. Especially on the committees of promote, educate, and facilitate.

[23:58] People love working virtually and it enables them to reach out to so many more people.

[26:59] Dick shares advice for people who want to get involved in tech transfer. There's always new horizons so continue to get educated.

[27:41] The FLC has also centralized training programs.

[30:53] Labs do early work on technology but then industry takes the technology and adds to it.

Resources: 

FLC

FLC Education

Edward serves as a commercialization officer in the Office of Medical Technology Transfer for the U.S. Army Medical Research and Development Command (USAMRDC), which operates under the Defense Health Agency.

He brings a wealth of experience to our conversation. He has spent decades evaluating and developing life science technologies, and his career spans academia, industry, and entrepreneurship. He's been a faculty member at Barry University and Northwestern University School of Medicine, worked as a senior scientist developing cancer diagnostic tests, and held entrepreneurial roles at several startups. Additionally, Edward founded a life science consulting firm, now known as Pathway Biotechnology.

In this episode, we dive into the world of medical innovations born from military needs and trace their journey into civilian applications. Edward sheds light on groundbreaking pharmaceuticals and vaccines, cutting-edge diagnostics, and innovative software. We'll explore the array of amazing technologies emerging from Army research and how they're poised to revolutionize healthcare for everyone.

We also talk about the unique approach Edward's office takes, with a strong emphasis on partnerships and something called "Assistive Technology Transfer." Join us for an eye-opening look at how military medicine is revolutionizing healthcare for everyone.

In This Episode:

[03:02] We dive right in talking about the lab's commercialization success including Artesunate, an antimalarial drug and IXIARO, a Japanese Encephalitis vaccine.

[03:52] 2B-Alert is a smartphone alertness app that uses AI to learn how individuals respond to sleep deprivation. ArmedXpert is DNA deconvolution software for forensics.

[05:42] Research in DOD and DHA is directed towards things that affect the warfighter.

[06:55] Assistive T2 works with technologies that need a partner. They need partners that will develop the product, so that they can buy it back.

[07:52] Prospective licenses have to apply and share information about financing and their development plan for the technology.

[08:52] Tech transfer is a three-dimensional environment of science, business development, and commercialization. They also work with their partners to help them find funding.

[10:35] We've come a long way in computer technology. Now AI is helping predict drug and antibody design.

[10:53] Data security is also a major issue for researchers and tech transfer personnel.

[11:57] The process of finding the right industry partners to license products is about the same although it's a challenge. 

[12:53] Edward shares the approach of the US AMRDC invention evaluation committee and how they evaluate disclosures.

[13:26] The committee is quite robust with many different members. It's a great group of people that can evaluate the technology and make the right business decisions.

[14:39] Vaccines are going to be very important in the future. There are many infectious diseases that they're working on. Brain health, treating burns, and blood health are also important things that they're working on.

[16:11] Edward and his team won a 2023 FLC award for excellence in tech transfer for the estimated core temperature or EC temp individual heat acclimation training tool or IHAT invention.

[17:10] Heat stress is deadly to the military and many civilians. EC temp and IHAT work together to measure core temperature.

[21:02] The money goes to the inventors first. 

[21:47] Edward was blown away by the knowledge that the DOD has about genomics.

[23:24] A team of researchers also came up with a way to look at sepsis and burn patients. They use biomarkers and an algorithm that can predict sepsis days before it actually starts.

[24:37]  The biggest challenge of the federal tech transfer community today is getting early stage technologies to the point where industry partners are willing to license them.

[26:05] One of the big advantages they have is access to unique equipment and facilities.

Resources: 

Edward Diehl LinkedIn

Pathway Biotechnology

Vladimir, a self-proclaimed "recovering scientist," shifted his attention from cancer biology to technology transfer in general. He is now playing an important role in bridging the gap between revolutionary scientific findings and business applications.

In this episode, we'll look at what drove Vladimir to the complex world of cancer research, his incredible path into technology transfer, and the development of the unique FLEX program. This one-of-a-kind initiative brings together federal laboratories and MBA students, creating new potential for collaboration and commercialization.

Prepare to be inspired as we explore the relationship between science and business with Vladimir Popov.

In This Episode:

[01:45] Vladimir shares how he went from research to tech transfer. He realized that tech transfer was where the business side and the scientific side merged.

[03:39] He loves seeing the big picture and moving from research to proof of concept to intellectual property to licensing and commercialization of products.

[05:33] How did he get into cancer research? He likes the complexity and the challenge of trying to solve something so nuanced.

[07:06] Frederick National Laboratory is the youngest National Laboratory, established in 1972. The lab is the government-owned and contractor-operated.

[08:46] The lab is fully dedicated to biomedical research.

[09:33] Vladimir explains the tech transfer process at Frederick National Lab.

[11:36] Artificial intelligence is one of the areas they are focusing on.

[14:45] The FLEX program is the Federal Lab Education Accelerator program, with the idea to connect federal labs and business students.

[18:38] There's a whole generation of MBA students coming up with the knowledge and familiarity of federal labs.

[19:05] We want to let upcoming entrepreneurs know that labs exist.

[19:38] The FLEX program piloted for about a year and then expanded. They've had good outcomes and students being offered jobs.

[21:02] They've also had their first company come out of the program, EviroWell.

[24:22] Contact Vladimir if you would like to get involved with the FLEX program.

Resources: 

Vladimir Popov, PhD, MBA

Vladimir Popov, PhD, MBA LinkedIn

FLC Flex Program

EnviroWell

That's the vision Robert Heard has been working towards for decades. Today, we'll dive deep into the world of entrepreneurial ecosystems and how they can empower local economies and unleash a wave of creativity beyond the tech hubs.

Robert, Founder and Managing Director of Cimarron Capital Partners and Development Capital Networks, has spent his career building bridges between investors, mentors, and aspiring entrepreneurs in often-overlooked regions. From Arkansas to Iowa, he's fostering fertile ground for startups to grow and thrive.

Join us as we explore the power of these ecosystems, the role of technology transfer, and how Robert's work is empowering the entrepreneurial spirit across the nation. Buckle up, because we're about to venture beyond the Valley and see innovation take flight in unexpected places.

In This Episode:

[02:54] Robert's firm has a strategic objective to build companies within a targeted region by focusing capital to that region. Investors are interested in making sure all of the parts of building a great business are available in this environment.

[05:07] It's not their strategy to mandate where the investments are made, the objective is to select entrepreneurs for investors that are likely to accomplish their goals.

[06:37] The focus is to invest in people and attract resources from the globe. You can be anywhere and still have access to federal technologies. They are thinking globally and looking for the best opportunities.

[08:08] Capital resources are very narrowly targeted. Finding the investor who has the appetite for your particular deal is always a challenge.

[11:47] Changes since the 90s include the world becoming a lot smaller. People also have more knowledge about entrepreneurship, investing, and business building.

[12:43] There are also alternative ways of connecting today. People also have unbounded opportunities to find knowledge. We also have a lot more investors today.

[14:55] People becoming entrepreneurs today is a global phenomenon.

[16:23] One of the biggest costs of technology is actually the development of the technology. People need to move fast, and they need money to do so.

[17:54] They frequently start with entrepreneurs who are engineers or scientists who are the originators of the technology or have found the technology at the university.

[18:19] Our federal labs are an incredible resource of technologies. FLC members are interested in directing their technology to startups. 

[20:50] Not everyone knows that there's the possibility of acquiring technology from federal labs.

[23:21] The tech transfer community succeeds when they transfer the technology into a business. Helpful events  are those that put technology on a podium and talk about the value of the technology and the problems that it solves.

[27:48] The key is talent. When you have technology, capital, and talent the gate for wonderful opportunities will be opened.

[31:03] Get out there and be visible. Train the world and be part of the ecosystem.

Resources: 

Robert Heard Cimarron Capital Partners

Robert Heard LinkedIn

The Power of Ecosystems: Entrepreneurs’ Key to Tech Transfer Success with Chris Campbell

National Association Of Seed And Venture Funds (NASVF)

Latin American Venture Capital Association (LAVCA)

The WBT Innovation Marketplace

FLC Education

Today, we're joined by one such visionary leader: Dr. John Kaplan, the director of the Technology Transfer Program at the Department of Veterans Affairs. When Dr. Kaplan took the helm in 2016, it marked his first foray into technology transfer. Undaunted by the challenge, he dove in headfirst, transforming the program into a thriving, multifaceted system. Under his guidance, the VA's T2 program hasn't just grown—it's become a trailblazer among federal technology transfer initiatives.

Dr. Kaplan brings valuable insights on leadership, revitalizing struggling programs, and much more. I'm delighted to welcome him to the podcast to share his experiences in growing and leading a successful T2 office.

In This Episode:

[02:39] We learn about Dr. Kaplan's background. He started out as an electrical engineering major, he got his masters degree, and was active duty in the Air Force. 

[03:05] He held a variety of positions and also earned an MBA, a PhD, and went to law school. 

[05:01] After leaving the military he was a law clerk for the government and then worked for the Department of Defense running all of their support including IT and security. He then moved on to patent litigation with a law firm.

[06:36] He then moved on to the Department of Justice. Then he worked as an attorney for the International Trade Commission.

[07:04] He finally moved to the Department of Veteran Affairs Tech Transfer Department.

[09:22] There were only three people in his office. The team was overwhelmed. Dr. Kaplan immediately hired three additional tech transfer specialists. He created five regions in our country, and gave each tech transfer person a region to be in charge of.

[10:24] He then had five tech transfer people and four additional support people.

[11:37] 2016 to 2018 was managing the office and answering questions to inquiries.

[12:38] Today they have eight regions with eight regional tech transfer specialists and 20 field technology transfer specialists.

[13:28] They still have plans to hire more and are bringing more people on board.

[17:03] Patent quality has gone up since they hired a firm to help. They also created an online course and started doing outreach.

[19:36] Fed-RAMP is short for the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program, a government program that makes sure cloud products and services meet strict security standards.

[20:27] Dr. Kaplan wanted to increase the morale of the staff. They launched an effort to get on the calendar and rewards program.

[22:09] They won a couple of FLC rookie of the year awards and excellence in technology awards and more.

[22:53] They are also on track to do 15 licenses this year. Royalty revenue is in the millions.

[24:30] Recap of all of the progress they've made so far. 

[26:49] Dr. Kaplan shares how they worked to have independent audits. 

[30:12] Looking at the person more than their qualifications is the current hiring procedure as they grow the team. They have a very high performing team.  

[33:39] They've also designed items for veterans like an accessible computer mouse and oxygen line valves with a thermal fuse cover. 

[37:07] Dr. Kaplan talks about their branding and creating tech transfer buzz in the VA. They also have more on the horizon. They are going to advance technology more outside of medicine with a venture capitalist and an integrator and create a new startup around magnetism. 

Resources: 

John Kaplan, Director of VA Tech Transfer Program

Starting as a high school intern for the Navy, Paige's journey took her from being a mechanical engineer at the Naval Surface Warfare Center (NAVSEA) in Panama City, Florida—where cutting-edge technology is developed for both sea and space—to her current role as the tech transfer manager at the same division. 

Her passion for technology transfer, a field she discovered after several years in engineering, perfectly aligns with her natural curiosity and interests. Beyond her role at NAVSEA, Paige serves as a Board member and committee Chair for the Federal Lab Consortium (FLC), where she focuses on fostering connections between government and industry within the innovation ecosystem.

Paige's enthusiasm and dedication to her mission are truly inspiring. I hope you enjoy our conversation as much as I did.

In This Episode:

[02:35] Paige worked for the Navy as an intern in high school. After getting her engineering degree, she began designing systems for divers. All military divers go through the dive School in Panama City.

[03:15] She spent over a decade working in diving and utilized cooperative research in development agreements to get critical technology into the Navy.

[03:35] She came into the Navy under the Smart Scholarship Program. 

[04:41] Learning and the ability to ask questions connects a lot of T2 people. Through curiosity we learn the language of the different organizations and offices.

[05:04] As the T2 manager, it's Paige's job to support the researchers getting from point A to point B. She handles the agreements and makes sure that everything is legal, safe, and follows the agreements.

[05:48] Paige shares technology at Panama City from seabed to space. They handle landing craft air cushion which is like a giant hovercraft. They work in various underwater vehicle technology and security systems. The Navy has more planes than the Air Force.

[07:05] The Navy has a hand in almost every technology used in the military.

[07:22] Commercialization in the Navy and the DoD includes developing technology that is dual use. They need to quickly get technology from the marketplace into the hands of the war fighters.

[08:51] There are also a lot of small businesses that have the cutting edge technology that they need. T2 opens the aperture of who they can work with.

[10:22] Paige talks about the augmented display diving system.

[14:47] FLC brings the cross collaboration between agencies and laboratories.

[16:37] Paige is a member of the board at FLC. She tries to use her position on the board and as a way to support her laboratory.

[21:07] The underwater contact series forced another access point to Federal Laboratories. Sharing virtual platforms has added more access, although you can't replace in person access.

[23:52] She would like the FLC to continue to grow national partnerships and positions of the T2 professionals.

Resources: 

Paige George LinkedIn

SMART Scholarship

Naval Sea Systems Command Technology Transfer Office

Our guest today exemplifies and champions the significance of these ecosystems. Chris Campbell, the CEO and founder of Simpli-Fi Automation, an electronic systems engineering solutions company, is here to share his insights.

Chris embarked on his entrepreneurial journey during his college years with the creation of Live Wire Entertainment, a record label and studio design and fabrication company. In 2018, he founded Simpli-Fi Automation, which initially thrived until the pandemic disrupted the global landscape. It was during this challenging time that Chris discovered federal tech transfer. Simpli-Fi licensed an innovative technology from NASA known as the electronic nose. To develop the e-nose, Chris has relied heavily on these support ecosystems.

Today, Chris will discuss his unique journey and this intriguing technology, providing an entrepreneur's perspective on the discovery, navigation, and success within the world of tech transfer.

In This Episode:

[02:43] Chris's background began with electrical systems engineering. For 20 years, Chris integrated systems to control and automate everything in a building.

[04:04] After COVID, they were forced to take a pivot. Brown Venture introduced them to the NASA tech transfer program.

[05:50] The NASA electronic nose really stood out. It had a sensor with the capability of smell. It could tell the difference between a healthy or an unhealthy state.

[08:41] Ecosystems are a must. The ecosystem helps with risk mitigation.

[10:40] Challenges minorities may experience are lack of relationships.

[12:18] Challenges include having the needed education to unlock the awareness.

[13:29] TRL technology readiness levels. A scale that measures a Technology's maturity level on a scale from 1 to 9.

[14:03] Chris talks about how a small business is able to last in the time that it takes to do the additional research to introduce the new technologies.

[17:13] The ecosystem also introduced Chris to the PTO pro bono program.

[19:25] They got their commercial license from NASA last year. They've finished design and are now in production. Today is a big day from the iterating process to scale. They are now going into trials.

[21:11] They partnered with another NASA technology partner that determines pregnancy in cows. 

[25:05] The technology is new, so they are now focused on validating and gaining credibility.

[28:17] NIST MEP definition. 

[29:04] Chris had to build the sensor himself.

[32:04] We need to bring contributors into the process and expand on our relationships. How do we make a concerted effort to outreach?

[36:00] The FLC is taking all of the resources that are impossible to find, putting them in one place. We need to get people to go there and look at it with the right perspective of technologies that they can use to further their endeavors.

[40:10] Chris shares how four minority businesses are building technologies for some of the largest medical companies in the world.  The technology is in the hands of people who will actually take it to market.

Resources: 

Christopher Campbell LinkedIn

Simpli-Fi Automation

Brown Venture Group

In 2023, the Federal Laboratory Consortium (FLC) began hosting shared boothspace with federal labs at BIO, making it easier for the labs to attend the conference, gain visibility and make connections for valuable partnerships. This year, the FLC booths will host representatives from the National Institutes of Health, the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the Department of Veterans Affairs and the National Association of Veterans’ Research and Education Foundations.

In this episode, representatives from these organizations will talk about what BIO has to offer, what they have to offer other BIO attendees and how to navigate this massive event.

In This Episode:

[02:12] Steve Ferguson NIH. The NIH has participated in BIO before it was even formed. This is a must-have meeting for technology transfer in the Biotech Industry.

[03:14] At one conference, they are able to see everything from manufacturing to policy issues to everything that impacts their job.

[04:08] Jamela Mavrakis FLC partnership manager. FLC's presence at BIO offers a cohesive platform for seamless networking opportunities for all of the labs.

[05:05] The shared space makes it invaluable for agencies to readily access opportunities and facilitate connections.

[05:44] Steve Ferguson talks about having the opportunity to work with multiple labs. It's more incentive for collaborators to work with Federal labs.

[06:31] Martin Hindel from NIST talks about how the conference strengthens their relationship with FLC. It gives them an entrance to the larger BIO world to showcase their technologies.

[07:24] John Kaplan from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is also looking forward to networking, sharing technology, and finding companies to collaborate with.

[08:28] Vladimir Popov from the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research will be manning a booth and moderating a panel discussion to raise visibility of his lab and opportunities in federal tech transfer.

[10:31] Research well and do your homework and look up the companies you'll be speaking with, create a good description about your lab, and things you would like people to approach you about.

[12:23] Hawk Tran from NAVREF talks about how amazing it is for the industry world and federal labs to come together, create synergy, and create solutions.

Resources: 

Biotechnology Innovation Organization's International Convention (BIO)

Steven Ferguson National Institutes of Health

Vladimir Popov Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research

Martin Hindel National Institute of Standards and Technology

Hawk Tran National Association of Veterans’ Research and Education Foundations

Federal Laboratory Consortium

Jamela Mavrakis LinkedIn

John Kaplan U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Implementing this change wasn’t easy and it took time, but smart legislation ultimately prevailed. My guest today is Joe Allen, a man who was at the forefront of the entire process. As a staffer in Senator Birch Bayh’s office, he played a pivotal role in getting the law passed. Now, 44 years later, he continues to defend the policy as the Executive Director of the Bayh-Dole Coalition. 

Joe shares insights into his career, highlighting how being in the right place at the right time and excelling in his role led to unexpected career advancements. We also gain a behind-the-scenes look into the legislation and voting process. Additionally, we learn why maintaining this law is vital for the advancement of technology and tech transfer.

In This Episode:

[01:31] Joe was an English and history major, and he was on a Senate Judiciary Subcommittee before working for Senator Bayh.

[02:02] He was a research assistant, and he handled correspondence. 

[03:21] Joe shares how he sat in on a patent meeting and discovered that if there was any federal funding on an invention the patent was taken away from the inventor and the idea was made freely available.

[04:05] In 1970, Innovation was needed and this was a big problem across the government.

[04:47] Joe did research and discovered this was a big issue. Senators Bayh and Dole became interested on a bipartisan level.

[06:23] He ended up staffing this project. 

[06:58] At first they didn't realize what a big deal it was, but they discovered it was a fundamental policy that was harming America because nothing was coming out of billions of dollars of taxpayer funding.

[07:08] We were literally giving our research away to our competitors.

[07:33] For people just starting their careers, you never know when your big break is going to happen and sometimes it's unexpected.

[07:43] If you're lucky, doing your best can transform your life.

[08:11] Forty-five years later, Joe is still working on the same issues.

[08:36] Companies weren't going to fund research in a university or federal laboratory, because the government would take away their patents. This segregated the public and private networks.

[09:00] Out of 28,000 government inventions less than 5% were licensed.

[10:53] Senator Bayh had a personal cause, because his wife was going through breast cancer treatment. This was people's lives that mattered.

[11:53] Challenges included people who truly believed that if the government funds research, it should be available for free.

[12:27] Universities and small companies were the most harmed by the previous laws.

[14:51] Amending Bayh-Dole to include big business was going to be the kiss of death.

[16:20] Joe shares behind the scenes action of getting the bill passed. 

[20:51] Jimmy Carter signed the act on the last possible day. 

[21:23] They put the regulations under the Office of Management and Budget, so Norm Lacker could work on it.

[21:44] The implementing regulations weren't in place until 1982. The whole process was anything but a slam dunk.

[22:25] The Federal Technology Transfer Act was originally part of Bayh-Dole. 

[30:15] We should be very optimistic about the future, because this theory works. It's more important than ever for the private sector to partner with Federal Labs and universities.

Resources: 

Joseph P. Allen Executive Director of The Bayh-Dole Coalition

Joseph Allen LinkedIn

Bayh-Dole Coalition

Bayh-Dole Coalition Facebook

My guest today is Paul Zielinski, the Executive Director of the Federal Laboratory Consortium (FLC), a nationwide network of federal labs that promotes the transfer of government technologies to the marketplace. With over 30 years in science, engineering, and technology transfer, he oversees FLC's operations and collaborates with stakeholders across federal agencies, industry, academia, and government to enhance technology commercialization.

Holding an MS in Civil/Environmental Engineering and an MBA in Entrepreneurship, his background includes directing the NIST's Technology Partnerships Office and chairing the FLC, with a focus on innovation and collaboration in the dissemination of federal research. As the FLC celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, Paul and I discuss the consortium's formation, its evolution over the past five decades, and its future direction

In This Episode:

[01:37] It's been 50 years since the FLC was formed in 1974. In 1945, Vannevar Bush sent Science The Endless Frontier to President Truman. 

[02:07] This letter lays out how the laboratory infrastructure that won the war should be converted over to win the peace. It envisioned technology transfer, advancing science, and bringing new technology to the marketplace.

[03:23] Technology transfer is about completing the mission after the research.

[04:01] The Department of Defense formed the Defense Laboratory Consortium. It was a group of people with a similar mission.

[05:01] In 1974, the Department of Defense invited all the other agencies in and the FLC was formed. 

[06:08] The Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act, the Bayh-Dole Act, and the Federal Technology Transfer Act changed and defined what we call tech transfer today. The first one was making tech transfer a mission for the laboratories. 

[07:32] The Bayh-Dole Act formalizes the authorization for laboratories to manage their intellectual property. They can get patents and trademarks and license products.   [08:32] FTA helps set up public private partnerships or cooperative research and development agreements.

[09:36] The FLC Awards program recognizes excellence in the field. It also helps motivate people. If you want excellence and an ecosystem for tech transfer to grow, it needs to be recognized.

[10:55] One of the most prestigious awards is the Harold Metcalf Award. He put his own career on the line to get the consortium finally put into law.

[11:28] This is the FLC's 50th golden anniversary year. The national meeting is going to be in Dallas, Texas this year. They're also going to focus on where they've been and where they are going.

[12:45] Paul is a problem solver. He began his career in the army with a biology degree. He then worked in nuclear waste cleanup. The technology didn't exist and they had to create it. This problem solving was how he became involved in tech transfer.

[15:00] This path also led him to solving problems at the EPA and at the National Institute of Standards and Technology which all led to tech transfer. 

[16:13] Some of the FLC's major accomplishments of the past decade include the growth. In 2020, the FLC board was realigned. They put promote, educate, and facilitate in the bylaws.

[17:12] Goals for the FLC in the next 5 to 10 years include expanding what they've already been doing. They are increasing tools and services, and having companies do reverse pitches to know what they are looking for.

[18:19] A lot of challenges stemmed from COVID. The technology and ability for people to work from home has really changed the world. The downside is losing that personal touch.

[20:13] The virtual world does offer a lower bar to entry.

[20:39] The cross agency community is the strength and the greatest part of the FLC.

[21:55] The excitement of tech transfer is the sense of accomplishment and finding solutions to fill voids and get things done.

Resources: 

Paul Zielinski LinkedIn

Federal Laboratory Consortium

Science The Endless Frontier

Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act

Bayh-Dole Act

Federal Technology Transfer Act

The FLC Harold Metcalf Service Award