AUTM on the Air

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Marc Filerman - LinkedIn

Deciding When Research Should Become a Startup with Omar Zahr

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 07:00:28 +0000

One of the toughest calls in technology transfer isn’t deciding whether a discovery is interesting or even promising. It’s deciding whether that discovery should become a company at all. There’s a big difference between a strong piece of research and something that can support a venture-backed startup, and most of the real work happens in that space in between.

My guest today is Omar Zahr, Chief Technology Officer at TandemLaunch, a venture creation firm that builds companies around university technologies in collaboration with global industry and academic networks. Omar started his career as a researcher at McGill University, where he completed a Ph.D. in Materials Chemistry before moving into venture development. Over the years, he’s worked at the intersection of deep tech, founders, and university IP, helping shape early-stage research into companies that are actually investable and positioned for growth.

We talk about how to evaluate whether a technology is truly “company-ready,” what it takes to build a business around early-stage science, and why not every invention should become a startup. Omar also shares how TandemLaunch approaches founder pairing, how investor expectations shape deep tech timelines, and where tech transfer offices can make or break momentum in the process. It’s a practical look at what happens between invention disclosure and a funded company, and why getting that middle stage right matters so much.

In This Episode:

[05:08] Omar Zahr walks through his transition from materials science at McGill into venture creation at TandemLaunch.

[06:14] He explains how curiosity, not a fixed plan, led him away from academia and toward commercialization.

[07:22] The moment he began to understand the broader gap between research and real-world impact started to take shape.

[08:35] Omar outlines how TandemLaunch differs from traditional incubators by acting as a company builder, not just a funder.

[09:48] The venture creation model is described as an end-to-end process from invention to seed-stage startup.

[11:02] He shares what makes a university technology “company-ready,” starting with proof of core scientific validity.

[12:16] The idea of building a business narrative first comes into focus as a key decision-making tool.

[13:29] Working backward from a successful exit helps determine whether a startup path even makes sense.

[14:41] Omar explains how some technologies are better suited for licensing when a full company story can’t be formed.

[15:54] The role of tech transfer offices is highlighted as essential for structuring deals and protecting all sides.

[17:08] Early IP clarity is discussed, focusing on capturing the true differentiator behind the invention.

[18:21] He breaks down how licensing complexities like field of use and background IP are handled in practice.

[19:37] Getting involved early allows TandemLaunch to influence patent strategy and support broader filings.

[20:49] The conversation shifts to founder selection, including how technical and product leads are identified.

[22:03] Omar explains why experienced CEOs are critical, even when other team members are first-time founders.

[23:17] Managing expectations between inventors and startup teams often comes down to relationship dynamics.

[24:28] Deep tech timelines and investor expectations are explored, with a focus on reducing risk step by step.

[25:32] Omar closes on a key challenge: slow negotiations introduce risk and can quietly kill otherwise strong deals.

Resources:

Building Strong Industry Academic Partnerships with Mark Fairey

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 07:00:58 +0000

Some of the most meaningful industry–academic partnerships don’t begin with a breakthrough headline or a flashy piece of technology. More often, they take shape around a real research need, a practical solution, and a willingness to keep showing up and working through the details over time. That’s the kind of collaboration we’re exploring here, including how ideas move from early-stage science into something researchers can actually use, and what it takes to make those relationships last.

My guest today is Mark Fairey, Senior Licensing Manager at STEMCELL Technologies, Canada’s largest biotech company known for its high-quality reagents, instruments, and tools used by life science researchers around the world. Mark has spent two decades at STEMCELL, moving through roles in R&D, scientific sales, business operations, and now licensing and business development. That range of experience gives him a grounded, practical perspective on what it really takes to turn academic discoveries into reliable, scalable products, and why the strongest partnerships often start long before anything is ready for market.

We talk about what actually bridges the gap between a promising idea in the lab and something that can be reproduced, scaled, and trusted in labs globally. Mark shares how STEMCELL evaluates technologies, why understanding real-world workflows matters just as much as the science itself, and where academic teams often underestimate the challenges of usability and scale. We also get into the role of tech transfer offices, what makes early conversations productive, and why consistent communication is still the backbone of any successful long-term partnership.

In This Episode:

[02:03] Mark Fairey reflects on his 20-year path at STEMCELL Technologies, from research into sales, operations, and licensing.

[03:11] He explains how time spent working directly with researchers gave him a clearer view of how products perform in the real world.

[04:07] The conversation turns to STEMCELL’s “scientists helping scientists” philosophy and how that mindset still shapes the company today.

[05:02] Mark discusses what helps move a promising academic insight toward something that can become a dependable product.

[06:18] He says early-stage science needs more than exciting data. It also needs a real commercial niche and a practical use case.

[07:26] A simple muffin-baking analogy captures why scaling a process is much harder than just repeating what worked in the lab.

[08:39] Mark shares how his exposure to customers and end users affects the way he evaluates technologies for licensing.

[09:47] Trust, strong science, and a shared commitment to improving research workflows all factor into lasting academic partnerships.

[10:56] He points to communication as one of the most important ways tech transfer offices can keep partnerships productive over time.

[12:04] Regular check-ins, clear expectations, and timely replies all make it easier for industry and academia to stay aligned.

[13:16] Not every collaboration leads to a license, and Mark explains why smaller, informal relationships can still be worthwhile.

[14:28] The discussion highlights what academic teams sometimes miss about usability, shelf stability, and large-scale reproducibility.

[15:42] Mark broadens the lesson beyond life sciences, arguing that commercialization always starts with solving a real-world problem.

[16:54] He reflects on how the volume of university innovation has grown and how both academia and industry have become more fluent in each other’s needs.

[18:06] When researchers or tech transfer offices first reach out, a solid non-confidential overview helps make the conversation more productive.

[19:02] Mark closes with his biggest takeaway for tech transfer professionals: communication, empathy, and active listening matter most in building relationships.

Resources:

STEMCELL Technologies

Mark Fairey - LinkedIn

A Father's Mission: How Danyelza Became a Life-Saving Therapy for Pediatric Neuroblastoma with Dr. Nai-Kong Cheung, Dr. Yashodhara Dash & Dr. Imke Ehlers-Surur

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Sometimes the most powerful innovations come from the most personal places. This episode tells the extraordinary story of Danyelza (naxitamab), a life-saving immunotherapy for children with neuroblastoma, and how it earned a finalist spot in the AUTM Better World Project.

What makes this story truly remarkable isn't just the science, although that's impressive enough. It's the unlikely partnership between a researcher who refused to give up, a tech transfer team that believed in an "ultra-orphan" drug when no one else would, and a father who turned his desperation into determination by founding a company to bring this therapy to other children facing the same devastating diagnosis as his daughter.

Joining me are three key figures from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center who shepherded this breakthrough from lab bench to bedside: Dr. Nai-Kong Cheung, the Enid A. Haupt Chair in Pediatric Oncology and a world-renowned expert in antibody-based therapies for childhood cancers; Dr. Yashodhara Dash, Vice President of Entrepreneurship & Commercialization at MSK; and Dr. Imke Ehlers-Surur, Director of Technology Development & Licensing, who negotiated one of the most unconventional licensing deals in tech transfer.

We discuss the 25-year journey from early mouse antibodies to FDA approval, why pharma companies initially passed on this technology, how regulatory designations like the rare pediatric disease priority review voucher changed the business case, and what happened when MSK had to decide which patients would receive limited drug supplies a moment Dr. Cheung compares to Schindler's List.

Disclosure: MSK and Dr. Cheung have financial interests in Danyelza.

In This Episode:

[03:07] Dr. Cheung explains neuroblastoma is a devastating childhood cancer that spreads to bone, bone marrow, and other organs, making it one of the most difficult pediatric cancers to treat.

[04:31] The "aha moment" came in the mid-1990s with antibody 3F8, when the team saw how these antibodies could light up tumors and eliminate metastatic disease.

[07:00] The early mouse antibody got rejected by the body, so the team used protein engineering to create a humanized version that could arm the immune system without rejection.

[08:14] Funding was one of the toughest challenges working with small budgets meant relying heavily on internal grants and parent groups like the Band of Parents.

[09:31] Dr. Dash describes the commercial landscape as a "hard sell". It was an ultra-orphan market, and companies wanted small molecules instead of antibodies.

[10:22] Persistence and entrepreneurial mindset kept the project going internally, applying for FDA designations and advancing the technology before finding the right partner.

[11:01] Dr. Ehlers reveals Y-mAbs Therapeutics was founded by Thomas Gadd, the father of one of Dr. Cheung's patients, who built a company when other paths stalled.

[12:07] Working with a founder who had unparalleled motivation but limited drug development experience meant MSK developed a forward-looking commercialization strategy.

[14:28] The biggest difference in negotiating with a patient-family founder versus traditional VCs was making sure both sides were speaking the same language.

[17:34] While MSK's Technology Development Fund provided some gap funding, the real story was philanthropic support from groups like the Band of Parents.

[18:42] The conversation turns to FDA accelerated approval in November 2020, after running out of drugs and having to decide which patients would benefit a moment compared to Schindler's List.

[21:12] To avoid conflicts of interest when helping form Y-mAbs in 2015, stepping out of the clinic completely became necessary to focus on research full time.

[24:19] The regulatory designations were "transformative" orphan drugs given seven years of exclusivity, and the rare pediatric disease designation came with a priority review voucher worth $80-300 million.

[27:18] Without these regulatory incentives, the startup may not have been fundable at all, though Thomas Gadd is noted as a "force of nature."

[28:18] Y-mAbs' acquisition by CERB Pharmaceuticals means proceeds will flow back to MSK to fund future cancer research, a typical life cycle for early stage technologies.

[29:41] Finding a drug or cure for a child so they can reach their full potential is described as priceless, with reflections on the anguish parents face.

[30:58] A powerful story about a physician father whose daughter responded to the antibody but ultimately died from graft versus host disease, an experience that drives the mission.

[34:05] When there's a convergence of mission and purpose with many people participating, that flame will continue to burn and inspire other tech transfer offices.

[35:34] The conversation concludes with emphasis on the importance of philanthropy, the power of parents, and finding a mission-driven partner to achieve FDA approval.

Resources:

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

The Nai-Kong Cheung Lab

Dr. Nai-Kong Cheung

Dr. Yashodhara Dash

Dr. Yashodhara Dash - LinkedIn

Dr. Imke Ehlers-Surur

Dr. Imke Ehlers-Surur - LinkedIn

Danyelza

AUTM Better World Project

Band of Parents

Y-mAbs Therapeutics

SERB Pharmaceuticals

Tokenizing the Future: How Brilliance Is Creating a New Model for IP Ownership and Investment with Chris Hack and Geoffrey Smith

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 07:00:00 +0000

If you've ever thought that intellectual property was just for lawyers, patent professionals, and the occasional venture capitalist, today's episode might change your mind. We're talking about what it would look like if anyone, your neighbor, your parents, maybe even a seven-year-old with a wallet could find, understand, and invest in the technologies shaping our future. It's a big idea, and our guests are actively building the infrastructure to make it real.

Chris Hack and Geoffrey Smith are the co-founders of Brilliance, a company working at the intersection of AI, blockchain, and decentralized finance to make intellectual property more accessible and investable. They're building tools that help non-specialists navigate patent landscapes using plain language search, connecting problem-solvers with the right opportunities, and experimenting with tokenization as a way to open royalty stream investing to a much broader audience than has ever had access before.

In this conversation, we dig into what it actually means to democratize IP, how AI is changing the discovery and translation of patents for people outside the profession, and what role blockchain and smart contracts could realistically play in the future of licensing and royalty management. We also talk about the guardrails that need to exist, the misconceptions worth clearing up, and where Chris and Geoffrey see the biggest opportunities for tech transfer offices to dip their toes in without taking on a lot of risk.

In This Episode:

[02:28] Chris explains that democratizing IP is less about what it is and more about who can access it everyday people, not just specialists.

[02:30] The biggest barriers to IP participation are readability, discoverability, and the high cost of creation, all of which technology can help address.

[03:49] Geoffrey adds that beyond discovery and translation friction, there's a matching problem: universities want partners, companies want solutions, and no one has solved the bridge between them.

[03:50] Brilliance built AI tools not for patent professionals, but for investors and entrepreneurs who need a low-friction first pass at understanding what a patent covers and why it matters.

[05:13] The tools are not patent drafting tools, they're designed to expand the footprint of who engages with IP in the first place.

[05:48] Chris and Geoffrey share their vision of making IP as conversational and familiar as real estate, starting with the people closest to us.

[07:57] Tech transfer offices can list IP on Brilliance's repository for free, feeding their AI model and getting exposure to a new class of potential investors.

[09:55] The conversation turns to tokenization and why NFTs in this context have nothing to do with digital art and everything to do with creating an immutable ledger for royalty contracts.

[10:21] Chris breaks down how NFTs function in their prototype marketplace as pointers or receipts, not the underlying contracts themselves.

[12:49] Brilliance's current model involves acquiring royalty streams, syndicating the funding, and owning the stream with a vision to move those transactions fully on-chain over time.

[13:50] Smart contracts in this context aren't legal agreements, they're programmable rules that govern how a token behaves on the blockchain and direct payments to whoever holds it.

[15:39] Blockchain explorers could eventually give municipalities and governments real-time visibility into where innovation is happening and where to direct funding.

[16:34] The most common concerns Brilliance hears from institutions involve regulatory uncertainty and security, but Chris and Geoffrey treat those as design guidelines, not dealbreakers.

[18:49] Compliance and governance aren't obstacles; they're the blueprint for building the right product, including AML and KYC requirements for the next marketplace iteration.

[19:06] The team is watching the Genius Act and Clarity Act closely, hoping clearer federal guidelines will let them move with more confidence.

[20:08] Brilliance focuses on non-dilutive funding by purchasing the economic interest in a royalty stream while leaving the underlying IP assets intact.

[22:00] Guardrails for tokenized IP investment need to address regulatory compliance, asset vetting, buyer and seller transparency, and clear valuation frameworks.

[24:00] For tech transfer offices wanting a low-risk entry point, the IP repository is free, requires minimal effort, and immediately connects listings to active investors using AI search.

[24:30] The Connect platform matches problem-havers with problem-solvers using embedded AI, and was built specifically to solve the sponsored research visibility problem.

[25:30] Chris addresses common misconceptions: NFTs are not speculative assets, smart contracts are not legal contracts, and blockchain does not require cryptocurrency speculation.

[26:49] Geoffrey's son asked how to invest in robots and that question became their clearest articulation of what success looks like in five to ten years.

[27:59] Most of the existing IP ecosystem patent attorneys, legal contracting, relationship-driven deals will remain intact. Brilliance is adding to it, not replacing it.

[30:00] Chris shares a hope for the future: rewarding collaborative innovation over individual filings and reducing the siloing that slows down big breakthroughs.

[31:28] For tech transfer professionals wanting to stay current, Chris recommends subscribing to Brilliance's newsletter as a curated starting point for AI and blockchain trends.

[32:17] Geoffrey closes with a reminder that understanding the fundamentals of AI — not just the applications is the safest and most practical place to start.

Resources:

Geoffrey Smith - LinkedIn

Brilliance

The Lantern

Chris Hack - LinkedIn

The Industry Side of the Table: How Samsung Evaluates University Partnerships with David Chang

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 07:00:23 +0000

If you've ever wondered what's actually going on inside a company's head when a university comes knocking with a new technology, today's episode is for you. We're getting into the real mechanics of university-industry partnerships and what makes them work, what slows them down, and where the biggest opportunities are being left on the table.

My guest today has lived this from just about every angle imaginable. He started his career in Ecuador, where he built the country's first university tech transfer office essentially from scratch. He then co-founded an ed-tech startup that turned profitable in its first year, led digital innovation licensing at Duke University, and now sits on the industry side at Samsung Research America, where he manages university collaboration programs and serves as a bridge between academic research and one of the world's largest tech companies.

In this conversation, we get into what Samsung actually looks for when a university brings an opportunity forward, how they think about technology at different stages of readiness, and why the human factor in these relationships matters more than most people realize. We also talk about how fast-moving fields like AI are changing the rules of the game for tech transfer professionals, and he shares some really practical advice on how to position technologies so companies lean in rather than walk away.

In This Episode:

[03:12] David Chang shares how curiosity and a belief in innovation as an engine for economic development shaped his global career in tech transfer.

[03:58] His path spans building Ecuador’s first tech transfer office, founding a startup, working at Duke, and now leading university partnerships at Samsung.

[04:41] Early work in Ecuador showed how innovation ecosystems develop slowly through trust and incremental collaboration.

[05:36] In emerging markets, university partnerships often begin with student projects before growing into research and commercialization efforts.

[06:44] David explains how seeing both the university and corporate sides of tech transfer reshaped his perspective.

[08:09] Relationships between tech transfer offices and industry partners often drive successful collaborations more than databases or programs.

[09:47] Industry timelines can be tight, and lengthy contract edits can create friction in university–industry partnerships.

[11:13] At Samsung’s LeapU program, three factors help advance a university technology: differentiation, clear milestones, and strategic fit.

[12:08] Demonstrations that spark an internal “aha moment” can help companies rally support for a new technology.

[13:27] Samsung evaluates proposals through a balance of technology push and market demand.

[14:16] The company organizes partnerships by technology readiness through the START, LeapU, and LeapS programs.

[14:58] START accepts early research ideas, while LeapU and LeapS rely on trusted relationships and invitations.

[15:43] Strong university partners often begin with deep expertise in a specific research area.

[16:29] Tech transfer offices add value by mentoring researchers on IP strategy and identifying entrepreneurial investigators.

[17:52] Emerging technologies like AI and robotics are pushing companies toward new collaboration models.

[18:41] Development speed matters in AI, where innovations can become obsolete within a short time.

[19:36] Platform technologies with modular components are often easier for companies to adopt than standalone inventions.

[21:18] Cultural factors such as flexibility and ongoing dialogue often distinguish the best university partners.

[22:44] Researchers interested in collaborating with Samsung should highlight their research background and concrete collaboration ideas.

[24:03] Combining technical depth with a strong business case can help tech transfer professionals position inventions more effectively.

[25:32] Industry conferences like AUTM provide valuable opportunities to build long-term collaboration networks.

[26:18] Reflecting on his career, David notes how working on both sides of tech transfer deepened his understanding of how innovation moves to market.

Resources:

Samsung Research America

START

LEAP-U

LEAP-S

Understanding Why AI Innovations Struggle to Scale in Healthcare with Adam Brickman

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 08:00:59 +0000

One of the biggest challenges in tech transfer isn't generating innovation — it's helping promising technologies move from early success into sustained, real-world use. That pattern shows up across industries, but today we're going to explore it through one fast-moving example: AI in healthcare. My guest is Adam Brickman, a healthcare innovation leader and part of the team behind Vega Health, a company focused on helping organizations identify, implement, and scale validated AI solutions.

Adam brings a practitioner's perspective to a problem that's becoming harder to ignore. Technologies that show real promise, sometimes even strong clinical results, can still end up stuck at their site of origin, never reaching the patients and health systems that need them most. Vega Health was built to change that by creating a new commercialization pathway that connects proven AI models from leading academic medical centers and health systems with the community hospitals that make up the vast majority of healthcare in this country.

We discuss why AI that works at one institution doesn't automatically translate somewhere new, and what it actually takes to bridge that gap. We talk about workflow discovery, the importance of testing models against local patient data before full deployment, and why user experience and staff buy-in are just as critical as the technology itself. Adam also shares what Vega Health looks for when evaluating whether an AI solution is ready to scale and has some pointed thoughts for tech transfer offices on licensing strategy in an increasingly crowded market.

In This Episode:

[02:29] Adam describes why many AI innovations remain trapped at their site of origin, even after demonstrating strong clinical or operational results.

[03:10] The conversation breaks down four traditional commercialization paths and introduces Vega Health’s role as a fifth, scale-focused alternative.

[04:05] A common assumption is challenged: the belief that only large academic medical centers can access or afford high-quality AI solutions.

[04:48] Adam explains why success in one health system rarely translates directly, emphasizing that implementation context and workflow differences are critical.

[05:32] Vega Health’s approach is outlined, including retrospective data testing to determine which models perform best in a specific patient population.

[06:40] The typical AI purchasing process is critiqued, highlighting the risks of committing to full deployment before validating real-world performance.

[07:31] The shift from “technology that works” to “technology that is used daily” is framed as a human and organizational challenge, not just a technical one.

[08:12] Adam stresses that technology must adapt to clinicians and staff workflows rather than expecting already-burdened users to change behavior.

[09:05] Validation is defined through live clinical deployment combined with peer-reviewed evidence, reducing the risks of first-time real-world testing.

[10:18] Transparency gaps in AI documentation are addressed, with Vega Health advocating standardized reporting on training data, origins, and performance.

[12:02] Adam reflects on the disconnect between innovation teams solving local problems and vendors pursuing only the most prestigious institutions.

[13:15] The imbalance in vendor strategy is highlighted, noting that most AI companies target a small percentage of elite hospitals while community systems remain underserved.

[14:10] Non-technical barriers take center stage, including alert fatigue, workflow friction, and the outsized importance of thoughtful UI and UX design.

[18:18] A story of initial resistance illustrates how skepticism can soften when end users feel heard through collaborative workflow discovery.

[20:31] Evaluation expands beyond model accuracy to include adoption metrics, clinical outcomes, administrative impact, and measurable return on investment.

[22:23] Adam offers strategic guidance to tech transfer offices: determine whether an innovation stands alone as a company or functions better as a feature.

[24:40] The risks of mandatory exclusivity are discussed, especially in a rapidly crowding AI market likely to experience consolidation.

[26:05] The episode closes with a reflection on why scaling innovation is difficult, resource-intensive, and still deeply worth pursuing.

Resources:

Adam Brickman - LinkedIn

Vega Health

Understanding What’s Happening in Washington, D.C. and Why It Matters for Tech Transfer with Mike Waring

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 08:00:57 +0000

Policy conversations can feel distant until they land squarely on the desks of technology transfer professionals. Coming to you from the AUTM Annual Meeting in Seattle, we’re taking a closer look at what’s unfolding in Washington, D.C., and why it matters for research commercialization, patents, startups, and university innovation.

My guest is someone many of you already know, Mike Waring. Mike has spent more than four decades immersed in Washington policy, beginning in broadcast journalism, then on Capitol Hill, and later as a lobbyist for a major trade association.

For twenty years, he led the University of Michigan’s Washington office, working at the intersection of research, technology transfer, and intellectual property policy. He is a former AUTM Assistant Vice President for Advocacy, past chair of AUTM’s Public Policy Advisory Committee, and now AUTM’s Advocacy and Alliances Coordinator, helping guide engagement with Congress and federal agencies on the issues shaping our community.

We explore the current mood toward universities and innovation, the bipartisan appetite for research and competitiveness, and the realities behind proposed policy shifts. We discuss the floated “innovation dividend” concept targeting university royalty income, developments at the USPTO, including Section 101 and PTAB practices, the status of PARA and PREVAIL legislation, and the ripple effects of SBIR/STTR authorization delays on university startups.

Mike also shares practical guidance for tech transfer offices on working effectively with campus government relations teams, leveraging regional impact stories, and keeping policymakers connected to the real-world outcomes of university innovation.

In This Episode:

[1:38] Mike Waring describes the Washington mood, noting that tech transfer is often folded into broader debates about universities rather than treated as a standalone issue.

[2:06] Even amid generalized skepticism toward higher education, members of Congress tend to maintain strong loyalty to institutions in their own states.

[2:47] “All politics is local” becomes the strategic anchor, emphasizing regional and district-level framing when communicating innovation impact.

[3:21] Innovation remains a bipartisan priority, with policymakers broadly aligned around jobs, new technologies, and competitiveness.

[3:52] Congress moves toward near-full funding for NSF and NIH despite earlier proposals for deep cuts, reinforcing support for the research pipeline.

[4:44] Sustained research investment is framed as essential for U.S. competitiveness with China and other global innovators.

[5:25] The floated “innovation dividend” proposal raises concern, particularly the idea of capturing roughly half of university royalty income.

[6:03] Pushback from the Bayh-Dole Coalition and other stakeholders highlights misunderstandings about how the government already benefits from research.

[6:37] The absence of formal policy language is viewed as a cautiously hopeful sign that the royalty proposal may lose momentum.

[7:35] Smaller tech transfer offices are identified as especially vulnerable to royalty revenue disruptions.

[8:34] Data, transparency, and institution-specific context are positioned as critical tools in campus leadership discussions.

[9:07] A constructive meeting with USPTO leadership signals renewed engagement with the higher-education community.

[10:20] Section 101 and PTAB practices emerge as focal points for patent system improvements.

[10:33] USPTO outreach shifts from regional buildings to more direct university-based engagement across the country.

[12:39] PARA and PREVAIL legislation are reintroduced, targeting subject matter eligibility and PTAB reform.

[13:08] Patent eligibility challenges are linked to difficulties in protecting diagnostics and therapeutics.

[14:34] Committee dynamics and limited legislative runway underscore the difficulty of advancing complex patent reforms.

[15:37] Even moving bills through the Senate is framed as laying groundwork for future Congresses.

[16:44] SBIR/STTR authorization lapses disrupt new awards, creating uncertainty for startups and early-stage technologies.

[17:09] Senate disagreements focus on limits for repeat grant recipients and geographic equity concerns.

[18:04] Prolonged delays raise fears that agencies could redirect funds away from SBIR programs.

[18:53] Tech transfer offices are encouraged to share real startup impact stories with senators to increase urgency.

[19:55] Final appropriations outcomes exceed expectations, easing earlier fears of drastic science funding cuts.

[20:26] NSF’s relatively small cut is described as a meaningful victory in a constrained budget environment.

[21:10] The rejection of a 15% indirect cost cap is welcomed as a significant win for research institutions.

[22:08] Tech transfer professionals are reminded they are not lobbyists but key partners to campus government relations teams.

[22:56] Providing data, success stories, and regional economic impact becomes central to effective advocacy.

[23:33] Chambers of commerce and economic development groups are highlighted as valuable third-party allies.

[24:18] Inviting local members of Congress to innovation events helps humanize tech transfer outcomes.

[25:11] Starting Hill meetings with “What do you know about tech transfer?” helps establish shared understanding.

[26:19] Simple visuals explaining the innovation cycle are recommended to clarify commercialization processes.

[27:09] Other Transaction Authority agreements and revenue-sharing clauses emerge as areas to monitor closely.

[27:27] A proposed patent tax is dismissed as impractical and ultimately abandoned.

[28:04] Key issues for 2026 include SBIR reauthorization, IP legislation, and upcoming appropriations.

[29:08] Washington’s unpredictability is acknowledged, paired with the reminder to “never waste a good crisis.”

[29:42] Policy threats are seen as catalysts that elevate tech transfer visibility within university leadership.

[30:11] Knowledge transfer from faculty to students is reaffirmed as a core, often overlooked dimension of tech transfer.

Resources:

Protecting Tech Transfer And University Innovation Funding With Mike Waring

Mike Waring - LinkedIn

AUTM Advocacy

Bayh-Dole Coalition

USPTO

USPTO Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB)

SBIR.gov

National Science Foundation (NSF)

National Institutes of Health (NIH)

Be Brilliant Urgently, Advancing Parkinson’s Research Through Partnerships with Michelle Durborow

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 08:00:27 +0000

Breakthrough therapies do not begin with commercialization, yet without it, many breakthroughs never reach patients. That tension sits at the center of this conversation with Michelle Durborow, Vice President of Research Operations at the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, where she oversees grant administration and program operations for Aligning Science Across Parkinson’s (ASAP).

Michelle explains how a patient-driven mission influences the foundation’s research funding strategy, particularly when it comes to early, high-risk science. From the outset, her team evaluates not only scientific merit, but also what each project makes possible, the decisions it informs, the risks it reduces, and how it contributes to the long-term therapeutic pipeline.

The episode also takes a look at intellectual property. Michelle shares why MJFF views IP not as a barrier, but as a practical mechanism that enables investment, partnership, and ultimately patient access. By removing itself from IP ownership, the foundation reduces friction while still supporting responsible protection, alignment of incentives, and meaningful data-sharing practices.

Michelle brings an operational perspective that resonates strongly with the tech transfer community. She speaks about bottlenecks, collaboration dynamics, and the importance of engaging earlier, before agreements become urgent and negotiations become strained. This strategic conversation offers lessons that extend well beyond Parkinson’s research.

In This Episode:

[01:50] Michelle outlines the Michael J. Fox Foundation’s mission to eliminate Parkinson’s disease while improving treatments for patients today.

[02:16] Technology transfer is the pathway that moves discoveries from ideas into scalable therapies and diagnostics.

[03:05] We discuss how patient impact directly connects to commercialization and translational strategy.

[04:10] Why MJFF evaluates translation potential at the very start of proposal review.

[04:55] Early-stage projects are assessed based on what decisions they inform and which risks they retire.

[06:12] Intellectual property is positioned not as a barrier, but as a bridge enabling investment and development.

[07:05] How patents provide confidence for partners navigating long, expensive R&D pathways.

[08:02] MJFF’s choice not to claim IP ownership is highlighted as a friction-reducing strategy.

[09:10] Michelle emphasizes that misaligned incentives not patents are what typically stall progress.

[11:16] Bottlenecks such as prolonged MTAs and data-use negotiations are identified as major slowdowns.

[12:11] She notes that unclear access terms and fragmented ownership frequently delay research momentum.

[12:33] The importance of bringing experts into agreement structuring is underscored.

[13:07] Michelle describes initiatives like the LURC2 Investigative Therapeutics Exchange and the LITE consortium.

[14:02] Early engagement with technology transfer offices is presented as essential for smoother partnerships.

[16:19] Collaboration lessons emerge: align goals early and define roles clearly across stakeholders.

[17:10] She advocates running science and deal mechanics in parallel rather than sequentially.

[18:02] Straightforward, repeatable agreement frameworks are credited with reducing negotiation friction.

[20:15] Trust is described as something built through transparency about incentives and risks.

[22:05] Michelle shares Michael J. Fox’s guiding principle: “purity of motives.”

[25:51] She reflects on her career shift from lab science to research operations and systems design.

[27:05] Michelle highlights MJFF resources, including guides, webinars, and the Buddy Network.

[28:37] Looking ahead, she expresses optimism about precision medicine and biomarker-driven care.

[29:55] Her closing message is to move faster together and keep patients at the center.

Resources:

The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research

Michelle Durborow - LinkedIn

Aligning Science Across Parkinson’s (ASAP)

Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI)

Targets to Therapies Program

Parkinson's Buddy Network

Parkinson’s IQ + You Events

Rebranding for Impact, How URI Is Scaling Research Commercialization with Peter Rumsey and Allison Markova

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 08:00:33 +0000

Real-world impact doesn’t happen by accident. It takes intention, structure, and a willingness to rethink how research moves beyond the university. That’s the inflection point the University of Rhode Island Research Foundation has reached as it rebrands to URI Innovations. This shift signals more than a name change. It reflects a broader evolution into a campus-wide hub for technology translation, entrepreneurship, and strategic partnership.

My guests today are Peter Rumsey and Allison Markova of URI Innovations. Peter serves as AVP of Innovation and Entrepreneurship. A former military officer with more than 30 years of private-sector business development experience, he has been instrumental in launching the Rise Up initiative supported by the U.S. Office of Naval Research. He was recently honored as a Career Achiever by Providence Business News for his work advancing innovation and economic development in Rhode Island and beyond.

Peter also serves as a part-time instructor in innovation and entrepreneurship at URI, is Chair Emeritus at Leadership Rhode Island, and currently chairs the Rhode Island State Innovation Hub, or RI Hub. Allison Markova is Director of Technology Transfer and Innovation Partnerships at URI Innovations, bringing deep experience from her previous role as Director of Technology Transfer at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution.

On today’s show, we explore what’s driving the rebrand, how initiatives like Rise Up are reshaping entrepreneurship training on campus and across state lines, and how URI is building momentum through its inaugural tech showcase. It’s a look at how early engagement, integrated IP strategy, and a strong regional ecosystem can turn research strength into sustained real-world impact.

In This Episode:

[03:15] The rebrand from URI Research Foundation to URI Innovations is explained, clarifying the shift from a confusing legacy name to a forward-facing identity centered on innovation and entrepreneurship.

[04:24] Peter outlines why now was the right moment for change, pointing to URI’s R1 status, research growth, and the need to scale translation capacity.

[05:48] A move beyond a patents-first mindset is emphasized, focusing instead on pairing intellectual property with commercialization to create true innovation.

[07:09] Allison describes the brand promise of transforming discovery into impact through clearer pathways for faculty, students, and industry partners.

[08:31] Early engagement becomes a central theme as URI Innovations reframes itself from a process office to a strategic partner in exploration and execution.

[09:47] The three pillars of IP stewardship, venture development, and strategic partnerships are presented as integrated functions rather than silos.

[11:06] Strategic partnerships range from sponsored research to startups embedding within new innovation centers and incubators.

[12:26] Ocean and blue technology leadership takes center stage, with examples including Regent Craft and collaborations with the Naval Undersea Warfare Center.

[16:26] Rise Up is introduced as a tri-state, Navy-supported initiative focused on dual-use technologies and workforce development.

[18:47] The Defense Department’s dual-use philosophy is explained as startups must succeed commercially rather than rely solely on defense funding.

[21:09] Undergraduate students tackle real defense and industry challenges using Steve Blank’s business model canvas and Bill Aulet’s disciplined entrepreneurship framework.

[22:57] The Patents to Products program provides gap funding and mentorship to translate university IP into market-ready ventures.

[24:42] Faculty Innovation Fellows integrate entrepreneurship tools directly into diverse curricula, from engineering to the arts.

[26:26] The Ideation Studio invites students, faculty, and community members into a 10-week sprint from idea to MVP and live pitch.

[28:59] Impact metrics go beyond disclosures and startups, tracking cultural change through increased early engagement.

[30:33] Growth in pitch night participation from a handful of teams to double-digit ventures signals a shift in campus culture.

[32:48] SWEPT, an AI-driven street-sweeping optimization platform, illustrates how student innovation can scale globally.

[34:10] Juice Robotics demonstrates how affordable ocean sensing technologies can disrupt traditionally high-cost field operations.

[36:11] The inaugural Tech Showcase positions URI alongside regional leaders and launches Rhode Island Startup Week.

[38:31] A public goal to create funded startups each year reflects a bold, action-oriented approach to building momentum.

[41:03] Allison shares why she joined URI Innovations, citing institutional commitment and cultural readiness for growth.

[42:34] Tech transfer is reframed as an impact platform rather than a patents office, emphasizing storytelling and amplification.

[43:50] Commercialization is positioned as complementary to scholarship, expanding researchers’ avenues for impact without compromising academic missions.

[46:32] Looking ahead, Peter outlines the vision for a “Rhody Innovation Hub” built as both a physical space and an entrepreneurial ethos.

[49:48] Closing advice includes just start, take shots on the goal, and don’t let perfection be the enemy of progress.

Resources:

The University of Rhode Island

Pete Rumsey - URI

Pete Rumsey - LinkedIn

Allison Markova - URI

Allison Markova - LinkedIn

URI RISE-UP

RIHub

Office of Naval Research

How the Technology Transfer Handbook Was Built in Five Days with James Filpi, Joy Goswami, Michael Samardzija, and Alysa Khouri

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 08:00:52 +0000

Technology Transfer: A Policy Primer for the Commercialization of Intellectual Property and Invention offers a practical policy and practice framework designed for use across institutions and jurisdictions. In this episode, we talk about how the handbook came together, including the decision to use the BookSprints methodology, a structured five-day collaborative process used to develop a complete policy and practice guide.

I’m joined by four remarkable individuals who played central roles in the creation of the handbook. James Filpi, JD, from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Commercial Law Development Program, envisioned the project and championed its development at CLDP, an organization focused on strengthening legal and regulatory frameworks that support commerce worldwide.

Joy Goswami, MBA, Director of Licensing and Commercialization Initiatives at the Research Foundation for the State University of New York and a member of AUTM’s leadership, brings experience from one of the nation’s largest research funding organizations and the broader technology transfer community.

Michael Samardzija, PhD, JD, partner at Womble Bond Dickinson (US) LLP, brought a practitioner’s perspective from years of legal and IP work in the technology transfer space. Alysa Khouri, who facilitated the BookSprints process, kept the group moving and helped structure the work over the five days.

I also want to acknowledge the broader group who participated in the BookSprint, including Edward Blocker of the Intellectual Property Owners Association; Davit Ghazaryan and Naira Campbell-Kyureghyan from the American University of Armenia; Priya Prasad of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Commercial Law Development Program; Richard S. Cahoon of Cornell University; and myself, Lisa Mueller, from Casimir Jones.

The handbook was developed at Caboose Farm near Camp David, Maryland, in August 2025, where the group was sequestered for five intensive days. Let’s dive into the conversation.

In This Episode:

[00:33] We just finished Technology Transfer: A Policy Primer for the Commercialization of Intellectual Property and will be sharing the collaborative process we used.

[04:20] James Filpi explains the original vision for the handbook, including CLDP’s focus on giving policymakers and technology transfer managers a practical framework for building innovation ecosystems in emerging markets.

[06:18] Alysa Khouri explains the BookSprints methodology, including its five-day structure and how the process moves from shared framing to writing and intensive cross-editing.

[10:45] The advantages of overnight editing, illustration support, and working across time zones are discussed as part of the BookSprints model.

[15:33] Michael Samardzija reflects on the intensity of the five-day sprint and how early uncertainty gave way to structure once roles, chapters, and editing rhythms were established.

[17:46] Joy Goswami describes how different institutional and professional perspectives were aligned into a single, coherent handbook.

[20:35] The decision to work in seclusion at Caboose Farm near Camp David is discussed, including how the setting supported focus and collaboration.

[25:20] The day-to-day rhythm of the sprint is described, from early mornings and shared meals to writing, revising, and late-night editing.

[31:56] The organization and scope of the handbook are outlined, including its progression from IP fundamentals to ecosystem development and emerging trends.

[34:15] How policymakers, universities, tech transfer offices, startups, and investors can use the handbook is explored.

[37:39] The decision to release the handbook under a Creative Commons license is discussed, along with why open access was critical to its use in training, policy development, and global adaptation.

[43:23] Reflections on what made this BookSprint distinctive emphasize collaboration, shared purpose, and practical outcomes.

[47:13] Participants reflect on what surprised them most about the process, including how quickly a coherent, high-quality handbook came together.

[54:07] Next steps are outlined, including workshops, training programs, legislative drafting support, and international rollout plans.

Resources:

James D. Filpi - LinkedIn

James D. Filpi - CLDP

Joy Goswami - The State University of New York Research Foundation

Joy Goswami - LinkedIn

Michael Samardzija, Ph.D. - Womble Bond Dickinson

Michael Samardzija - LinkedIn

Alysa Khouri - LinkedIn

Technology Transfer Guidebook

Commercial Law Development Program CLDP

BookSprints

Creative Commons

Caboose Farm

Meet AUTM’s New Board Members: Laura Schoppe and Patricia Stepp (Part 2)

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Last week, we kicked off a special two-part series with three of the five women joining the AUTM Board of Directors in February 2026. Today, we’re completing that conversation with Laura Schoppe, Chief Commercialization Officer at TechPipeline, and Patricia Stepp, Assistant Vice President for Technology Transfer at Rice University.

For listeners who may not yet be familiar with Laura and Patricia, here’s a brief look at their backgrounds. Laura Schoppe is the Chief Commercialization Officer at TechPipeline, and the founder of Fuentek, which she built into one of the world’s leading technology transfer consulting firms. Over the course of her career, Laura has helped universities, government agencies, nonprofits, and Fortune 500 companies proactively and strategically manage intellectual property, drawing on deep expertise in open innovation and IP portfolio management.

Patricia Stepp is the Assistant Vice President for Technology Transfer at Rice University, where she leads the strategic planning and day-to-day operations of the Office of Technology Transfer. With a background in biomedical engineering, she brings a thoughtful, hands-on perspective shaped by her earlier work at Arizona State University’s Skysong Innovations, where she launched a diversity initiative focused on expanding commercialization opportunities.

In This Episode:

[03:05] Patricia reflects on her background in biomedical engineering and what continues to motivate her about moving discoveries from the lab into real-world impact.

[04:45] The appeal of tech transfer is framed as constant learning, curiosity, and helping researchers see their work make a difference beyond campus.

[06:10] Laura explains what motivated her to found Fuentek, reflecting on her early work in government and university environments and the gaps she saw in how technologies were being commercialized.

[08:15] Building a fully virtual tech transfer consulting firm long before remote work was common proves to be a forward-looking decision.

[10:30] Internal and external perspectives on tech transfer are compared, highlighting why diverse vantage points strengthen strategy and governance.

[12:05] Board diversity is discussed as extending beyond identity to include professional background, institutional scale, and ecosystem role.

[14:10] Returning to board service is driven by timing, experience, and the freedom to speak more candidly about systemic pressures.

[15:45] AUTM’s role as a welcoming, formative professional community is cited as a major reason for stepping into board leadership.

[17:30] Budget constraints, shifting federal funding, and rising caseloads are identified as ongoing realities for tech transfer offices.

[18:55] The need to operate more strategically, including being more selective about what to patent, is emphasized as resources tighten.

[20:05] Artificial intelligence is discussed as a useful support tool for routine tasks, but not yet a replacement for expert judgment.

[21:40] Caution is urged against rushing AI adoption, with a reminder that many tools remain uneven or immature.

[23:10] The importance of proactively educating policymakers about how AI is actually used in tech transfer is highlighted.

[24:50] Looking ahead five years, the focus shifts toward becoming more proactive, efficient, and licensing-driven rather than reactive.

[26:20] Strengthening industry and venture capital relationships is seen as essential to improving commercialization outcomes.

[28:10] AUTM’s collaborative culture is highlighted as a defining strength that lifts the entire community.

[29:55] Expanding participation in committees and board service is framed as key to AUTM’s long-term resilience.

[31:15] Everyday technologies influenced by university tech transfer are cited as a reminder of the field’s broad, often unseen impact.

[33:10] Advice for those entering the field emphasizes gaining industry experience and leaning into networking and shared learning.

[35:05] Recharging outside of work ranges from creative hobbies to food, music, and film, underscoring the human side of the profession.

Resources:

Patricia Stepp - Rice University

Laura Schoppe - LinkedIn

TechPipeline

Fuentek

Patricia Stepp - LinkedIn

Meet AUTM’s New Board Members: Katie Butcher, Felicia Metz, and Maithili Shroff (Part 1)

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 08:00:40 +0000

Over the next two weeks, we’re doing something a little different, with a special two-part conversation featuring five extraordinary women who will be joining the AUTM Board of Directors in February 2026. To give us the space to really dig in, we split these conversations across two episodes, so we could spend more time on the perspectives, experiences, and leadership each of these new board members brings to the tech transfer community.

In this episode, we’re joined by Felicia Metz from the University of Maryland Ventures, Maithili Shroff from the University of New Hampshire, and Katie Butcher from Northwestern University. Next week, the conversation continues with Patricia Stepp of Rice University and Laura Schoppe, founder of TechPipeline, bringing in additional viewpoints from both inside and outside the university setting.

Katie Butcher brings an MBA from Notre Dame and a Master of Science in Law from Northwestern into her role, giving her a strong mix of business and legal experience that shapes how licensing and commercialization work at Northwestern. Felicia Metz is an Associate Director at University of Maryland Ventures, where her work spans patent prosecution, building and managing IP portfolios, and licensing strategy.

Maithili Shroff is a Licensing Manager at the University of New Hampshire, an R1 institution, where she draws on her PhD training to support innovation and intellectual property commercialization, with a perspective shaped by working across a wide range of research areas. Together, these three leaders reflect the breadth of backgrounds, expertise, and lived experience shaping the future of tech transfer, and they offer a thoughtful look at why this moment matters for the profession and for AUTM’s leadership going forward.

In This Episode:

[00] This is a special two-part series introducing five women who will join the AUTM Board of Directors in February 2026.

[03:26] Katie shares her path to tech transfer. She has an MBA and has worked in the legal field. She spent her first 20 years in the entertainment industry.

[04:33] Her background was strong, but she also had a lot of learning on the job in science, technology, and learning. It's been an exciting adventure being in this field.

[05:58] Felicia entered tech transfer as a student and unexpectedly built a long-term career in the field.

[08:10] She explains how the profession has evolved toward specialization and complementary skill sets across offices.

[09:41] Maithili describes how her PhD led her to question what happens to research after publication.

[11:22] She shares how the AUTM fellowship and the collaborative culture of the community shaped her career path.

[13:18] The panel discusses why tech transfer welcomes professionals from many backgrounds, not just STEM or law.

[15:23] Curiosity, flexibility, and comfort with ambiguity are emphasized as essential traits for success.

[16:49] Why running for the AUTM Board felt timely and meaningful.

[18:42] The importance of representing non-STEM and operational roles in tech transfer leadership.

[20:14] Advocacy, higher-education pressures, and why board service feels urgent right now.

[21:20] We discuss funding uncertainty, policy shifts, and broader challenges facing tech transfer.

[24:02] Budget constraints, staffing pressures, and the reality of doing more with fewer resources are explored.

[26:09] The importance of telling the tech transfer story and demonstrating real-world impact comes into focus.

[29:10] Data and metrics are discussed as tools for visibility, accountability, and storytelling.

[32:18] Artificial intelligence enters the conversation as both a disruptive force and a potential support tool.

[35:10] The panel considers how AI could improve efficiency without replacing human judgment.

[38:00] The guests share their hopes for where tech transfer and AUTM could be in five years.

[39:50] Felicia shares a personal story that underscores why tech transfer work truly matters.

[43:47] Reflections on partnership, service, and shared success.

Resources:

Katie Butcher - Northwestern University

Katie Butcher - LinkedIn

Felicia Metz - University of Maryland

Felicia Metz - LinkedIn

Maithili Shroff - University of New Hampshire

Maithili Shroff - LinkedIn

AUTM Better World Project

Patents, Peer Review, and Policy: What Congress Needs to Understand Now with Kate Zernike

Lessons From the WIPO-AUTM Knowledge and Technology Transfer Summit with Steve Susalka

Building the Blue Economy at Seaworthy Collective with Tamara Kahn Zissman

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 08:00:45 +0000

We’re diving into the blue economy with a fascinating conversation about ocean innovation and entrepreneurship. The discussion focuses on the practical reality of building ocean-focused companies, including the scientific complexity, regulatory hurdles, funding constraints, and long development timelines that make this sector very different from more familiar startup environments.

Our guest is Tamara Kahn Zissman, Director of Founder Success at Seaworthy Collective, a Miami-based nonprofit accelerator supporting BlueTech startups focused on ocean impact. Before working with founders, Tamara spent more than a decade at sea using advanced geophysical sensors in demanding environments. Her work took her from the Arctic to the waters off Borneo, giving her a firsthand view of how ocean systems, climate pressures, and human activity intersect.

Tamara holds a Bachelor of Science in Geological Sciences from the University of Texas at Austin and a Master of Advanced Studies in Climate Science and Policy from the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. At Seaworthy Collective, she designs and leads programs built around human-centered design, helping “Sea Change Makers” grow ocean data technologies into viable, planet-positive businesses. We also discuss the Ocean Enterprise Studio and Incubator launching in February 2026, with applications open through January 28, 2026.

In This Episode:

[00:04] The blue economy and why ocean innovation is becoming a critical focus within research commercialization.

[02:44] Tamara Kahn Zissman explains what blue tech means and how the definition of the blue economy has shifted toward sustainability and regeneration.

[04:15] She describes the ocean as one of the planet’s most important climate regulators and explains why data gaps remain such a major challenge.

[06:21] We explore the founding vision behind Seaworthy Collective and how the organization evolved to better support ocean entrepreneurs.

[07:18] Tamara discusses Seaworthy’s emphasis on human-centered design and why supporting founders as people is essential for long-term success.

[10:20] Unique barriers ocean startups face, including capital intensity, long validation cycles, and regulatory complexity.

[12:30] How collaboration across accelerators can create stronger commercialization pathways than competition alone.

[13:36] What Seaworthy looks for in applicants and why alignment between founders and program support matters.

[14:42] Tamara outlines the structure of the Ocean Enterprise Studio and Incubator and the level of commitment expected from participants.

[16:28] The benefits of mixed cohorts that include both aspiring founders and early-stage startups.

[18:45] How community support within cohorts accelerates learning and confidence for first-time founders.

[21:30] We talk about the role of ocean data technologies and why they are central to the future of the blue economy.

[24:10] How Seaworthy helps founders translate strong science into viable business models without losing impact.

[27:05] Non-dilutive funding and why it plays a critical role in ocean innovation.

[30:15] How the Continuum network connects ocean enterprise accelerators across the country.

[33:20] We discuss how researchers and tech transfer professionals can better engage with ocean-focused startups.

[36:56] Details on Seaworthy’s Ocean Enterprise Studio and Incubator launching in February 2026 with a January 28, 2026 application deadline.

[38:21] What gives her hope about the future of ocean innovation and growing awareness of the blue economy.

[39:52] A call for researchers and entrepreneurs to turn ocean research into real-world solutions.

Resources:

Seaworthy Ocean Enterprise Studio & Incubator

Seaworthy Collective

NOAA Ocean Enterprise Network

Scripps Institution of Oceanography

Tamara Kahn Zissman - LinkedIn

Lessons From the WIPO-AUTM Knowledge and Technology Transfer Summit with Steve Susalka

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 08:00:55 +0000

In November 2025, Bangkok, Thailand became the epicenter of a global conversation about the future of innovation. Leaders from around the world gathered for the WIPO-AUTM Knowledge and Technology Transfer Summit, creating a rare space for open discussion about what is working, what is strained, and what needs to evolve in the tech transfer profession.

With participants representing 27 countries, the summit surfaced a striking reality. Whether operating within long-established innovation ecosystems or building tech transfer capacity from the ground up, institutions are wrestling with many of the same core issues. Conversations repeatedly returned to questions of impact, sustainability, and talent, as well as a growing disconnect between how innovation actually unfolds and how it is often funded or evaluated. Short timelines and rigid expectations simply do not match the slow, uneven, and sometimes unpredictable path from research to real-world application.

At the same time, it was clear that there is no single right model. Every region approaches technology transfer through the lens of its own culture, institutions, and policy environment. Some emphasize startups, others focus on licensing or industry partnerships, and ownership structures vary widely. What connects these approaches is a shared understanding that technology transfer is no longer a straight line from disclosure to deal. It has become an ecosystem role that requires flexibility, patience, and long-term thinking.

To help unpack what these global conversations mean for the future of the profession, we’re joined by Steve Susalka, CEO of AUTM, who chaired the summit and had a front-row seat to these discussions. Drawing on perspectives from across continents and systems, Steve offers a grounded view of where technology transfer stands today, where it’s headed, and what it will take to strengthen the profession, support the people doing the work, and expand its real-world impact.

In This Episode:

[05:32] Steve Susalka shares why the WIPO-AUTM Summit prioritized global dialogue over prescribing best practices.

[07:12] Similar concerns surface regardless of whether countries have mature or emerging tech transfer systems.

[09:01] Common challenges emerge across 27 countries, even among vastly different innovation ecosystems.

[11:04] Why misunderstanding the role of tech transfer creates unrealistic expectations at the institutional level.

[13:18] Short-term funding cycles collide with the long timelines required for meaningful innovation.

[15:02] The tension between public mission and commercial pressure facing many university offices.

[17:44] A comparison of global ownership models and how they influence faculty, startups, and industry engagement.

[19:26] How early industry engagement can reduce friction later in the commercialization process.

[22:09] Startup formation as a critical bridge across the “valley of death” for early-stage technologies.

[24:41] Why some of the most impactful technologies require patience, risk tolerance, and exclusive pathways.

[27:36] The profession’s shift away from linear tech transfer models toward ecosystem-based approaches.

[29:58] The growing importance of culture-building and education alongside traditional licensing work.

[32:15] Why attempting to replicate Silicon Valley or MIT often fails without comparable infrastructure and culture.

[34:22] Tech transfer professionals as translators between academia, industry, and government.

[36:58] The human toll of tech transfer work, including burnout, turnover, and career sustainability concerns.

[39:11] What sustainability really means for tech transfer offices beyond annual budgets.

[41:27] How promotion and tenure systems can either reinforce or undermine innovation efforts on campus.

[44:08] Why global collaboration can help regions avoid repeating the same hard-earned lessons.

[46:03] What surprised Steve most in conversations with leaders from emerging innovation ecosystems.

[48:37] Why measuring success purely through revenue misses the broader value of innovation activity.

[50:41] AUTM’s role in advocating for the profession and making its impact more visible.

[55:12] Aligning funding expectations with realistic innovation timelines as a path to greater impact.

[59:08] Steve’s closing call to action for institutions, policymakers, and tech transfer professionals worldwide.

Resources:

Fostering Global Innovation: AUTM's Role in Shaping International Tech Transfer Conversations

WIPO

Stephen Susalka - LinkedIn

Building Resilience in Tech Transfer with Dr. Daniel Boamah and Dr. Kimberly Green

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 08:00:24 +0000

This is the second episode in our special series on mental health and Tech Transfer.

If you missed our first conversation with Jane Wainwright, I encourage you to go back and listen. It’s a candid look at why this topic matters and why it deserves real attention, not to be pushed to the side. Today, we’re continuing that discussion because the pressures inside tech transfer offices haven’t let up with constant policy shifts, funding uncertainty, tight deadlines, and the feeling of being stretched thinner every month.

We’re joined today by two researchers from Western Kentucky University who understand these challenges from both the academic and human sides. Dr. Daniel Boamah is an assistant professor in the Department of Social Work and a licensed clinical social worker. His research focuses on intellectual and developmental disabilities, child welfare, and addressing disparities affecting African-American males, immigrants, and refugees. He also serves as the clinical director at KYSTEP’s Multigroups and Survivors of Torture Recovery Center, where he works directly with individuals navigating trauma and long-term healing.

Dr. Kimberly Green is the department chair and an associate professor in Communication Sciences and Disorders at WKU. She’s a nationally certified speech-language pathologist with deep experience in cultural competence, interprofessional collaboration, and diversity and inclusion efforts. She also participated in the Association of Schools Advancing Health Professions’ 2023 Leadership Development Program, which prepares future leaders in health professions education.

Daniel and Kimberly have also partnered on an innovative project using virtual reality to increase awareness of implicit bias in child welfare decision-making, with work supported by multiple grants and recognition across Kentucky’s innovation ecosystem. They’ve been through the Tech Transfer process themselves, and they understand the emotional weight that comes with high-stakes, resource-limited environments. Today, we talk openly about where stress shows up in TTOs, how external pressures are affecting well-being, and what realistic, evidence-based support can look like for professionals who feel like they’re holding everything together without enough backup.

In This Episode:

[03:18] How culture inside small, specialized TTO teams can either support or hinder mental well-being.

[04:28] Daniel outlines how close-knit work environments amplify stress and compound personal and professional pressure.

[05:36] Kimberly describes the perfect storm created by rushed timelines, shrinking budgets, and pressure to deliver measurable results.

[06:31] We discuss the physical effects of burnout, including sleep disruption and declining overall health.

[07:55] Insights from their own commercialization journey, highlighting the emotional demands placed on TTO staff.

[09:01] The conversation turns to federal funding uncertainty and how proposed indirect cost caps are impacting morale and stability.

[10:22] The psychological ripple effect of budget cuts, including quiet quitting and fractured loyalty.

[11:48] We explore how external stressors, such as community trauma and world events, further intensify workplace pressure.

[13:06] Job insecurity and how fear, anxiety, and grief spread through close professional communities.

[14:13] The real impact of secondary trauma and emotional contagion within teams and families.

[15:42] Daniel shares evidence-based strategies for boundaries, coping skills, and building support networks.

[17:24] Kimberly highlights no-cost interventions such as affinity groups, behavior monitoring, and trust-centered communication.

[18:44] Concerns about EAP usage and strategies to reduce stigma through leadership transparency.

[20:02] Sustainable output requires building wellness into workflow rather than expecting staff to “power through.”

[21:08] The importance of peer support and external networking for small TTO teams.

[22:36] Leadership’s role is examined, including the need for proactive communication and meaningful involvement in problem-solving.

[23:54] Why authentic recognition and listening are central to preventing burnout and turnover.

[25:13] How harmful responses like “suck it up” undermine trust and accelerate burnout.

[26:51] Reframing resilience and grit, noting they cannot be achieved without recovery time and realistic expectations.

[28:18] Individual resilience from trauma-informed organizational change and why both matter.

[29:34] Practical steps for individuals to unplug, seek help, and be present during the holiday season.

[31:21] Workplace trauma is unpacked, revealing how fear, grief, and emotional contagion move through small, overstressed teams.

[34:40] Practical mental health strategies are offered, including monitoring physical cues, limiting constant availability, and normalizing unplugging.

[38:42] Kimberly emphasizes that meaningful improvements often come from trust, communication, and simple organizational shifts — not expensive programs.

[41:11] Stigma surrounding employee assistance programs is addressed, along with ways leaders can model openness to help others feel safe using resources.

[44:07] Taking time off becomes complicated when returning means facing a higher workload, reinforcing the need to rethink recovery time.

[47:00] Peer support expands outside the home institution, providing a new perspective and a healthier emotional balance for isolated teams.

[50:44] Red tape frustrations appear as a major pressure point, prompting a call for proactive collaboration rather than reactive crisis management.

[53:15] Leaders are encouraged to ask staff directly what they need instead of guessing from a distance.

[57:58] Resilience loses meaning when constant pressure leads to exhaustion rather than growth, and rest must be part of the equation.

[1:01:43] How system-level responsibility must match expectations placed on individuals to support mental well-being truly.

[1:05:24] Practical holiday-season reminders include being present, seeking help, and allowing yourself to unplug without guilt.

[1:08:46] The power of leadership modeling, transparency, and ongoing communication in rebuilding trust.

Resources:

Daniel Boamah, Ph.D., LCSW - Western Kentucky University

Daniel Boamah, Ph.D., MA, LCSW - LinkedIn

Kimberly J. Green, Ed.D., CCC-SLP - Western Kentucky University

Kimberly J. Green - LinkedIn

Development of a Multitenant Virtual Reality Platform for Increasing Awareness of Implicit Bias in Child Welfare Decision-Making A Public Health Crisis

Improving Mental Health Across IP and Tech Transfer with Jane Wainwright

Breaking the Silence on Mental Health in Technology Transfer with Megan Aanstoos, Anji Miller, and Ed Ergenzinger

The Origin of Technology Transfer Professionals Day with Chad Riggs

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 08:00:33 +0000

Every now and then, someone inside a Tech Transfer office tries something small, something meant for their own team, and it ends up resonating far beyond their campus. That’s the path our guest followed, and it’s a great reminder of how ideas in this profession can ripple outward in ways we don’t always expect.

My guest today is Chadwig “Chad” Riggs, former marketing associate at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital’s Office of Technology Licensing and the creator of Technology Transfer Professionals Day, which is celebrated each year on December 12, the anniversary of the Bayh–Dole Act. Chad talks about how this whole effort began with a quick holiday video meant to help colleagues understand the licensing process, and how it slowly turned into a day of recognition, education, and connection. He also shares small touches, like custom inventor mugs or light-bulb candy favors, that helped bring faculty into the conversation and made tech transfer feel more approachable.

From there, the idea eventually made its way to AUTM, and Chad explains what it took to turn an internal activity into a national recognition day. Along the way, we touch on why acknowledgement matters, especially now, and how stories like St. Jude’s ALK gene journey show the real-world impact that can come from sustained licensing and partnership work. It’s an encouraging reminder that shining a light on the people behind commercialization can strengthen the whole ecosystem.

In This Episode:

[00:33] We discuss Chad Riggs’ background at St. Jude’s Office of Technology Licensing.

[01:20] How marketing, outreach, and internal engagement became central to his Tech Transfer role.

[02:45] He recalls how a simple holiday video sparked the idea for broader year-round education and recognition.

[04:13] Chad describes the early holiday videos at St. Jude and why Tech Transfer needed its own presence.

[05:40] We learn how he wanted to build excitement around disclosures and increase faculty participation.

[07:05] The team brainstorms their first set of activities for Technology Transfer Professionals Day.

[08:10] Chad talks about St. Jude’s culture of celebrating different professional groups across the hospital.

[09:30] The realization hits: Tech Transfer deserves its own day, too.

[10:15] He outlines the initial reaction from colleagues and leaders when he proposed the idea.

[11:00] Chad explains why choosing December 12, the anniversary of Bayh–Dole, was non-negotiable.

[11:43] The team launches their first celebration with inventor mugs, quizzes, and creative giveaways.

[13:10] He discusses the importance of pairing recognition with education about the disclosure and licensing process.

[14:30] Chad shares how elevator screens, newsletters, and repeated messaging helped build internal awareness.

[15:45] He breaks down why the Bayh–Dole Act remains central to Tech Transfer’s identity and purpose.

[17:25] The story shifts to how Chad brought the idea to AUTM and pushed for national adoption.

[18:50] He talks about navigating committees, lobbying concerns, and sticking to the holiday’s true intent.

[20:15] Chad reflects on watching institutions nationwide make the celebration their own.

[21:40] Creative examples, like office competitions, stickers, and venture program spotlights, start appearing.

[23:00] The AUTM toolkit expands the day with graphics, hashtags, and award ideas.

[24:10] Chad shares how recognition days help fight burnout and remind researchers that TTOs are real people.

[25:35] He emphasizes the importance of visibility and human connection in a “black box” profession.

[26:50] The conversation turns to morale, retention, and why small acknowledgments matter.

[27:55] Chad explains how giving people ownership of ideas increases engagement and buy-in.

[29:15] He talks about the value of creative exercises and “batting practice” for building stronger innovation habits.

[30:40] Chad shares the ALK gene story as a powerful example of the long-term impact of Tech Transfer.

[32:20] The discussion covers how one discovery evolved into multiple FDA-approved therapies.

[34:05] He highlights the economic and clinical reach of ALK inhibitors around the world.

[35:10] Chad reflects on decades of work that eventually returned to benefit pediatric patients.

[36:00] Tech Transfer is the bridge that takes research from the benchtop to the bedside.

Resources:

Celebrate the Contributions of Tech Transfer Professionals

Better World Project

Bayh–Dole Coalition

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Chad Riggs - St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Chad Riggs - LinkedIn

Rethinking the Future of University Funding with Dr. Yasheng Huang

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 08:00:24 +0000

There’s a fundamental shift happening in the world of American research universities, and people across higher education are feeling it. Funding that once seemed dependable is now uncertain, and the pressure coming from political and economic changes is hard to overlook. More and more, leaders and researchers are asking tough questions about how the current system can keep up, and what needs to evolve to protect the future of discovery and innovation.

Today’s guest, Dr. Yasheng Huang, brings a thoughtful and deeply informed perspective to that conversation. He is the Epic Foundation Professor of Global Economics and Management at the MIT Sloan School of Management, and one of the world’s leading voices on global innovation systems, technology policy, and the Chinese economy. He has written 13 books, including Capitalism with Chinese Characteristics, named Best Book of 2008 by The Economist, and The Rise and Fall of the East, selected by Foreign Affairs as its Best Book of 2023. His recent article in Nature, Universities Must Harness Their Financial Value, has sparked an important debate across higher education.

In this episode, Dr. Huang talks about why the traditional funding compact between universities and the federal government is breaking down, why universities create extraordinary economic value that they rarely capture, and what bold new approaches might protect the future of research. He also shares a candid warning about the risk of losing scientific talent, and why innovation within university finance may be essential to preserving the innovation ecosystem itself.

In This Episode:

[02:15] Dr. Huang explains why he opened his Nature article with a comparison between university endowments and Elon Musk’s wealth.

[04:02] Discussion on the imbalance between perceived university wealth and actual financial resources needed for research.

[06:51] Historical accumulation of endowments vs. rapid individual wealth creation highlights the funding disparity.

[08:29] The economic impact of university-driven innovation and the paradox of unrecognized value.

[09:51] Examples of Stanford and MIT entrepreneurship driving massive global GDP value that universities cannot record financially.

[12:52] Dr. Huang reflects on the communication gap between universities and the general public about research impact.

[16:39] Explanation of the historic “social compact” between universities and the federal government after World War II.

[18:00] How legislative changes enabled university-owned IP and helped spark modern entrepreneurship.

[20:00] The consequences of current funding suspensions, budget cuts, and a proposed tax on endowment income.

[21:40] Rising costs of scientific research and the increasing scale of talent and equipment needed to sustain discovery.

[24:53] Funding imbalances across disciplines, with material science and energy research falling behind.

[27:59] Licensing revenue limitations and why patent income cannot sustain university budgets alone.

[34:49] The Weizmann Institute model and lessons from more aggressive IP commercialization strategies.

[37:51] The tension between commercialization and academic values, and the need for responsible guardrails.

[39:14] Proposal to explore taxing a small portion of faculty outside consulting income to support shared research infrastructure.

[46:55] Discussion of equity across disciplines and why financial benefits rarely flow to the broader academic community.

[52:06] The risk of losing scientific talent to other countries and historical examples of long-term consequences.

[59:55] A hopeful note about recent elections and restoring confidence in the stability of democratic institutions.

[1:00:28] Reflections on academic freedom and the need for bold innovation in university funding models.

Resources:

Yasheng Huang - MIT Management Sloan School

Yasheng Huang - MIT Center for International Studies

Universities Under Fire Must Harness More Of The Financial Value They Create

Capitalism with Chinese Characteristics: Entrepreneurship and the State

The Rise and Fall of the East

Improving Mental Health Across IP and Tech Transfer with Jane Wainwright

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 08:00:53 +0000

Mental health is increasingly a focus in Tech Transfer as people try to keep pace with heavy workloads, fast-moving deadlines, and the pressure to make the right call with limited time and information. To bring more attention to what professionals are experiencing, we’re opening a new series on wellbeing and resilience with a conversation featuring today’s guest, Jane Wainwright. This series will look at the challenges many carry quietly and highlight approaches that support healthier, more sustainable workplaces across research commercialization.

Jane has spent more than twenty years at Potter Clarkson and led the firm’s biotechnology practice. Over the course of her career, she managed global life sciences portfolios, supported clients through demanding legal and scientific issues, and served in senior leadership roles. Alongside that work, she trained as a mental health first aider, earned advanced coaching credentials, founded Starry-Eyed Pragmatics, and joined the advisory board of Jonathan’s Voice, a charity dedicated to mental health within the IP profession.

We discuss the pressures she has seen across both patent practice and tech transfer, from perfectionism and tight timelines to the “always on” habits that leave many people exhausted. She shares what she’s seen help in real workplaces, including more substantial support from leadership and better ways to share responsibility for urgent matters. Jane also reflects on how small culture shifts can make it easier for people to do their work without feeling overwhelmed. It’s a practical, honest way to start this new series and a conversation many listeners will recognize from their own environments.

In This Episode:

[01:03] Jane’s background in high-pressure patent work sets the stage for discussing mental health challenges.

[01:32] The conversation outlines the real consequences of missed deadlines and the constant pressure to get things right.

[02:26] Jane’s shift toward mental health advocacy and her work with Jonathan’s Voice comes into focus.

[03:04] She describes the mental health landscape in IP and why perfectionism and long hours contribute to hidden struggles.

[04:03] Jane shares her personal experience with depression and anxiety and explains how it shaped her advocacy.

[07:57] We discuss how global uncertainty, rapid change, and AI concerns add new layers of stress.

[09:19] Data from a wellbeing survey highlights how deadlines, workloads, and client demands affect IP professionals.

[12:42] Differences in workload stress across regions and firm sizes come up as contributors to burnout.

[14:54] Why perfectionism makes it hard for teams to accept "good enough" under tight timelines.

[17:21] We address why many feel unable to take time off and how workload pressure affects vacation habits.

[18:22] Jane talks about surface-level wellness initiatives versus meaningful organizational change.

[19:34] She emphasizes the importance of team structures that share responsibility and reduce overload.

[21:01] The role of teamwork and continuity planning in reducing stress becomes a central theme.

[22:07] Strategies for very small TTOs and solo practitioners are explored, including outsourcing and prioritization.

[23:18] The importance of having a support network and access to confidential help is discussed.

[24:57] Jane reflects on her transition from partner to full-time wellbeing and coaching work.

[29:03] We examine how senior leaders view mental health and the need to “meet them where they are.”

[30:29] Generational differences in attitudes toward mental health begin to shift firm culture.

[32:35] Emotional intelligence is highlighted as a core competency for supporting healthy teams.

[35:31] Leadership modeling of healthy behavior helps build psychological safety.

[35:47] What actually works beyond wellness perks, including trust and clear expectations.

[37:59] Jane discusses role modeling, healthy boundaries, and avoiding the “always available” culture.

[40:21] Emotional intelligence as a learnable skill is explored, including how it evolves.

[41:54] Signs of cultural change give Jane hope, alongside growing awareness and new generations entering the field.

[44:03] Real progress takes time, especially in high-workload environments like U.S. law firms.

[44:47] Why mental health and organizational performance are deeply connected.

Resources:

Starry-Eyed Pragmatics

Jane Wainwright - LinkedIn

Jonathan’s Voice

2022 Mental Wellbeing Survey of the IP Profession

Global Insights on University Commercialization with Todd Davey and Medisa Focic

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 08:00:48 +0000

Few studies have explored the global state of university intellectual property commercialization as deeply as this brief, Unlocking University IP: Global Insights into Commercialization Challenges and Opportunities. In this episode, we take a close look at that landmark UIIN Insights Brief with its lead authors, Dr. Todd Davey and Medisa Focic, to better understand how universities around the world are managing and monetizing their research. Together, they offer a rare global perspective on the systems, people, and policies that shape how ideas move from campus labs to the marketplace.

Dr. Todd Davey, Associate Professor of Entrepreneurship at Institut Mines-Télécom Business School in Paris and Associate Partner with the University Industry Innovation Network (UIIN), brings decades of experience in connecting academia and industry. His co-author, Medisa Focic, a PhD candidate at the University of Technology Sydney, studies how IP policies are designed, implemented, and interpreted across Europe. Their combined research examines five major regions —North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America —and what these differences reveal about innovation and opportunity.

The conversation touches on everything from the Bayh-Dole Act’s lasting influence in the U.S. to Europe’s evolving focus on valorization, where social and cultural value often matter as much as revenue. Todd and Medisa explain how strong, government-driven innovation systems in parts of Asia contrast with Africa’s emerging models built on homegrown solutions and local needs. Across these regions, they uncover a common thread: universities recognize the potential of IP, but still face structural and cultural barriers that hinder their progress.

By the end of the discussion, a call for collaboration across continents emerges. Todd and Medisa make the case for ecosystem thinking: a more inclusive, evidence-based approach that measures success beyond patents and profits. They highlight lessons from institutions like MIT, Oxford, and Tsinghua University, where leadership, culture, and clarity around IP have turned innovation into impact. Their message is clear: unlocking the world’s intellectual property potential starts with aligning people, policy, and purpose.

In This Episode:

[00:33] Introducing guests Dr. Todd Davey and Medisa Focic, who are here to talk about the UIIN Insights Brief.

[01:08] Todd has a background in entrepreneurship and university-industry collaboration.

[02:16] Medisa has done research on IP management and policy frameworks across Europe.

[03:52] The motivation behind their ambitious comparative study and what they hoped to uncover.

[05:16] Why IP remains an underexplored asset in higher education worldwide.

[06:21] Examining the persistent gap between potential and real commercialization outcomes.

[07:45] How the absence of coherent IP policies limits innovation capacity.

[08:38] Understanding the “Valley of Death” and the time it takes for research to reach the market.

[09:26] Concentration of licensing revenue among elite universities and lessons learned.

[10:52] Rethinking how success is measured beyond patents and spinouts.

[12:12] The Bayh-Dole Act’s lasting impact on the North American IP model.

[13:31] Why the U.S. framework can’t simply be copied in civil-law systems like Europe.

[15:18] Exploring Europe’s valorisation approach and its focus on social and cultural value.

[16:31] Examples of non-traditional outputs—policy advice, education, and consulting.

[18:06] Broader focus on societal good and inclusive research across disciplines.

[19:47] Social innovation accelerators in Canada and similar global movements.

[20:42] Asia’s government-driven IP strategies and their success factors.

[22:20] How policy, infrastructure, and funding link R&D to commercialization in Asia.

[23:35] Emerging IP frameworks in Africa are centered on local solutions and social impact.

[25:03] Why resources, context, and priorities shape Africa’s innovation path.

[26:57] The seven major global challenges identified in the UIIN report.

[29:20] Underfunded tech transfer offices and the need for skilled personnel.

[30:33] Academic incentive gaps and the burden of extra commercialization work.

[32:44] Addressing bureaucracy and cultural barriers between academia and industry.

[33:39] Building trust through small collaborations and clear communication.

[35:54] Shared goals, transparency, and mutual benefit as foundations for partnership.

[37:35] Encouraging academics to learn the language of industry and engage directly.

[38:56] Misalignments between institutional policies and real-world IP practice.

[40:26] How unclear disclosure processes frustrate academic inventors.

[41:47] Lessons from MIT, Oxford, and Tsinghua—what top performers do differently.

[44:00] Institutional culture, leadership, and training as key ingredients of success.

[45:26] The role of revenue-sharing policies in motivating and rewarding researchers.

[47:37] Balancing financial incentives with recognition and purpose.

[48:47] Moving from one-to-one collaborations to broader ecosystem models.

[50:38] Real-world example: Siemens’ shift to many-to-many partnerships.

[52:25] Recommendations for developing stronger institutional innovation cultures.

[55:16] Aligning incentives between faculty, TTOs, and administration.

[57:12] Expanding training and capacity-building programs across regions.

[60:04] Integrating social and economic impact metrics into tech transfer performance.

[63:15] The future of ecosystem-based innovation and the rise of data-driven insights.

[66:00] Redefining success to include collaboration, trust, and social value.

Resources:

Unlocking University IP: Global Insights into Commercialization Challenges and Opportunities

Todd Davey - Todd Davey - Institut Mines-Télécom

Todd Davey - LinkedIn

Medisa Focic - LinkedIn

Building a Model for Non-Dilutive Funding Success with Sam Tetlow

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 08:00:54 +0000

Few people bridge the worlds of engineering, venture capital, and biotech entrepreneurship the way Sam Tetlow does. After early years at General Electric and a successful run in venture capital, Sam founded The Grant Engine out of frustration with a broken system with too many brilliant innovators failing to secure the funding they needed to move lifesaving research forward. What began as a personal mission to write better grants for his own portfolio companies has evolved into a thriving 75-person firm that now submits more than five percent of all NIH SBIR applications in the United States, with win rates two to four times higher than the national average.

In this conversation, Sam talks about what makes The Grant Engine’s approach so different including the deep training every writer goes through before ever touching a client proposal, the collaborative “brain trust” culture that fuels problem-solving, and the rigorous external reviews that pressure-test every draft. He explains how the company’s structure mirrors that of a venture-backed startup by being focused, data-driven, and built for scale without the equity trade-offs. They help clients access non-dilutive funding that keeps ownership intact while accelerating innovation.

We also take a look at today’s funding landscape. Sam doesn’t shy away from describing 2025 as a turbulent, even “scary,” year for federal research programs. His message is to stay the course. He shares how The Grant Engine is guiding clients through political uncertainty, shifting budgets, and the sudden influx of AI-generated proposals that flooded agencies last year. Along the way, he offers grounded advice for tech transfer offices and startups, plus how to prepare when others freeze, where new opportunities are emerging, and why persistence, preparation, and quality still win.

In This Episode:

[00:33] Sam’s career journey from aerospace engineering to venture capital and entrepreneurship.

[01:40] The origins of The Grant Engine and how a failed grant experience sparked a new business model.

[02:52] The mission behind The Grant Engine by helping innovators secure non-dilutive funding that saves lives.

[03:45] How the company grew to 75 employees and achieved a win rate two to four times higher than the national average.

[05:12] What makes The Grant Engine’s approach different from traditional grant writing services.

[06:45] Why rigorous training and mentorship create consistently successful grant writers.

[07:58] The importance of subject matter expert reviews before engaging a client.

[08:38] External peer reviews and the “pressure test” process that elevates proposal quality.

[09:43] Discussion on the national drop in SBIR win rates and how The Grant Engine’s rates improved despite it.

[11:30] Understanding their higher success rates across Phase I, Phase II, and Fast Track programs.

[13:10] How The Grant Engine’s “X factor” lies in data, experience, and honest client feedback.

[15:02] Regular internal analysis: studying what makes a proposal win or lose.

[16:20] How understanding study section audiences helps tailor more competitive applications.

[17:09] The link between commercialization experience and strong grant proposals.

[18:50] The “Find, Win, and Manage” framework that defines The Grant Engine’s services.

[20:20] How the company helps clients identify the right solicitations and map funding to product roadmaps.

[22:00] Managing post-award compliance and staying “audit ready.”

[22:33] Addressing turbulence in federal funding and the ongoing government shutdown.

[24:00] Sam’s take on political uncertainty and how intentional disruption is affecting research programs.

[25:54] Why this is a time to double down rather than pull back from federal funding pursuits.

[26:58] The impact of AI-generated grant proposals on funding success rates.

[27:56] The case for staying persistent and why consistency eventually beats randomness in the review process.

[29:33] Outlook for 2026 and how to prepare for the eventual SBIR reauthorization.

[31:44] The shifting balance between academic and company-based research funding.

[32:24] Signs of hope: proposals to double SBIR allocations and bipartisan support for innovation funding.

[34:16] Advice to continue preparing proposals even while programs are paused.

[36:46] Why readiness for the next submission window creates a competitive advantage.

[38:20] The benefits of over-preparation and staying proactive through uncertainty.

[39:53] How The Grant Engine uses AI responsibly by augmenting research without replacing human expertise.

[41:30] The limits of AI writing tools and the danger of relying on them for winning proposals.

[42:38] The company’s acquisition of Streamline and its research on predictive grant modeling.

[44:50] New opportunities ahead in defense, cybersecurity, space, and life sciences.

[47:20] Observations on budget trends and where funding will likely expand or contract.

[50:29] Encouragement for startups and tech transfer professionals to stay motivated and adaptable.

[51:33] Viewing challenges as evolution and how adversity strengthens teams and innovators.

[54:05] Staying fit, staying ready, and building a stronger innovation ecosystem.

Resources:

Grant Engine

Sam Tetlow - Grant Engine

Sam Tetlow - LinkedIn

Funding@GrantEngine.com

Innovation Needs Connection: Finding the Human Side of Tech Transfer with Joe Runge

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 07:00:52 +0000

It’s often the connections between people that keep innovation burning bright. My guest today is Joe Runge. He’s spent more than two decades exploring that truth from several angles, including as a practicing patent lawyer, published scientist, educator, and veteran of the innovation economy. Joe holds the rare distinction of being the only student in history to earn both a law degree and a master’s degree in biology simultaneously from the University of Iowa, a combination that uniquely shaped his perspective on how science and law intersect to move discoveries into the world.

Today, Joe serves as Associate Director and Co-Founder of the UNeTech Institute, a joint research institute between the University of Nebraska Omaha and the University of Nebraska Medical Center. His work extends far beyond traditional tech transfer. He’s helped secure over $5 million in competitive funding through economic development and entrepreneurship grants, while guiding faculty, startups, and community partners through the often-uncertain process of turning research into real-world impact.

In our conversation, Joe reflects on his recent TEDx Omaha talk, "Innovation Needs Connection," in which he explores how a single word can change everything and why understanding your audience is just as critical as understanding your invention. We talk about the emotional side of tech transfer, from frustration and failure to purpose and gratitude. We also discuss how UNeTech’s latest ventures, including Respira AI and IMPOWER HEALTH demonstrate what happens when collaboration meets creativity.

In This Episode:

[01:57] Joe reflects on co-founding UNeTech and the transition from Unimed to a broader vision for innovation in Nebraska.

[03:26] Revisiting Joe’s past podcast, Innovation Overground, and how scaling UNeTech changed his focus.

[04:15] The origin of Joe’s TEDx Omaha tal,k Innovation Needs Connection, and how one word, stent versus balloon, shifted everything.

[07:07] Lessons from the “stent to balloon” moment about language, audience, and empathy in tech transfer.

[08:54] Understanding cultural differences between scientists and industry partners.

[09:29] Why Joe chose to be open about frustration and anger in his TEDx talk and what that revealed about connection and authenticity.

[12:18] Helping inventors stay hopeful despite statistics showing most patents and startups fail.

[13:32] How UNeTech reframed innovation work toward workforce development and long-term community impact.

[16:02] Balancing urgency and burnout while tackling global challenges like climate change and pandemics.

[18:59] The personal reflections and family conversations sparked by Joe’s TEDx experience.

[21:30] How applying for TEDx became an unexpected journey of self-discovery and professional identity.

[24:58] The meaning behind “big ideas must die three deaths” and learning to value failure as part of excellence.

[27:52] Joe’s biggest lessons from projects that didn’t make it to market and how humility plays a role in resilience.

[30:21] UNeTech’s exciting startup portfolio, including Respira AI for COPD monitoring and IMPOWER HEALTH’S self-pacing treadmill.

[33:23] Joe’s new role with Gearhart Law and how his tech transfer background informs his IP work.

[36:27] Emotional intelligence and vulnerability as tools for better collaboration in tech transfer.

[38:04] Encouragement to reflect, redefine success, and find personal purpose in innovation work.

[39:08] What keeps Joe inspired about the future of innovation and why human connection remains at the heart of progress.

Resources:

Innovation needs connection | Joe Runge | TEDxOmaha

UNeTech Institute

Innovation Overground Podcast

Joe Runge - LinkedIn

Gearhart Law

Accelerating Startups with Michael Lyon

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 07:00:02 +0000

Some people talk about innovation. Others live it. Michael Lyon has built a career that bridges worlds most of us only dream about, from helping launch the first space tourists to diving miles beneath the ocean surface, and now mentoring the next generation of tech entrepreneurs. A Harvard Law graduate with experience spanning government, finance, and frontier industries, Michael has spent over 40 years helping bold ideas find their place in the real world. Today, he serves as a longtime mentor at the Creative Destruction Lab, guiding hundreds of founders in fields like space, ocean technology, and AI.

In this conversation, Michael shares the hard-won lessons behind his new book, Accelerating Startups: Lessons from Mentors. He opens up about the questions founders don’t always stop to ask, like whether they’re truly ready for the risks, trade-offs, and constant pressure that come with building something new. Michael explains why it’s smarter to chase a real-world problem than to fall in love with a piece of technology, and how founders can stay grounded when money, time, and people all pull in different directions. What stands out is how he draws on the precision of a lawyer and the curiosity of an adventurer to illustrate the messy and rewarding nature of the startup path.

We also discuss the human side of Tech Transfer, including how universities can better prepare innovators for the leap into business, what it means to listen to mentors truly, and why staying humble often opens more doors than any credential ever could. When the topic turns to AI, Michael keeps it practical, discussing where it helps, where it falls short, and how founders can utilize it without compromising their creative edge. His stories have a lived-in quality that makes you believe progress is built through patience, self-awareness, and the kind of mentorship that keeps you moving when things get hard.

In This Episode:

[02:15] How Michael helped launch the first space tourists and later mentored hundreds of ventures at the Creative Destruction Lab.

[03:40] What inspired him to write Accelerating Startups: Lessons from Mentors, and how common startup challenges led to the book.

[05:08] The “Section Zero” question and why founders should pause to ask if they’re truly ready to build a company.

[06:45] The personal and professional sacrifices that come with startup life and how timing matters.

[08:20] Why reflection, self-awareness, and resilience are critical traits for any founder.

[09:30] The trap of “a solution looking for a problem” and how tech transfer teams can help avoid it.

[10:45] Why falling in love with the problem, not the technology, is key to real market traction.

[11:55] The role of early business plans in aligning co-founders and clarifying assumptions.

[12:40] Customer discovery tips for academic founders and how to measure perceived customer value.

[14:00] Blind spots Michael often sees in university-based startups and why being coachable changes everything.

[15:28] The balance between technology development and commercialization within research spinouts.

[16:45] How mastering a 30-second pitch can transform a founder’s understanding of their own business.

[18:10] Why many companies struggle with active listening and how coachability affects mentor relationships.

[20:25] Building the right founding team and why compatibility and trust matter more than equity splits.

[22:30] Michael’s advice on founder “prenups,” equity vesting, and handling co-founder departures.

[24:10] How startups should approach global markets early and the role tech transfer offices play in preparing them.

[26:30] Inside the Creative Destruction Lab model—goal setting, mentorship quality, and science-based acceleration.

[28:20] Legal pitfalls academic entrepreneurs often overlook and why strong agreements matter.

[29:45] Michael’s take on AI in startups and how it can streamline, and where human creativity still leads.

[31:20] His top three takeaways for new founders include building a business plan, refining your pitch, and staying open to learning.

[33:00] Reflections on mentorship, trust, and the patient, disciplined path from idea to impact.

Resources:

Accelerating Startups: Lessons From Mentors

Michael Lyon - LinkedIn

mentor@lyoncapitalservices.com

Creative Destruction Lab

Driving Vision Forward: Inside the Foundation Fighting Blindness with CEO Jason Menzo

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 07:00:02 +0000

Fighting blindness requires science, strategy, and a great deal of heart. Today’s guest is Jason Menzo, CEO of the Foundation Fighting Blindness, the world’s largest private funder of retinal disease research. Since assuming the role in 2022, after serving as President and COO, Jason has helped raise nearly a billion dollars and is backing over 100 projects across 86 labs and clinical centers worldwide. With more than two decades in ophthalmology at Sun Ophthalmologics, Nycox SA, Bausch & Lomb, and Bayer, he brings sharp business instincts and a deep commitment to restoring sight.

Before joining the Foundation, Jason co-founded and led several eye-care ventures focused on bringing breakthrough treatments to patients more quickly. That for-profit experience now fuels mission-driven innovation, new funding models, and partnerships that move discoveries from the lab to the clinic. A standout example is the early Foundation support for the research behind Luxturna, the first FDA-approved gene therapy for an inherited disease, demonstrating how bold, risk-tolerant philanthropy can transform medicine when academia, government, and industry collaborate.

A hallmark of his leadership is the R&D Fund, a $160 million venture philanthropy model with an eight-to-one leverage ratio. This bridges academic research and commercialization, drawing in private capital to advance promising therapies. He has also championed a global network of over 40 clinical centers in 10 countries and strengthened the talent pipeline through fellowships and translational awards. Today, 88% of retinal treatments in clinical trials can be traced back to Foundation-funded programs.

Today, we discuss where science, policy, and philanthropy converge to bring sight-saving treatments closer to reality. We discuss the proposed Venture Philanthropy Enhancement Act and look ahead to gene-agnostic therapies, cell regeneration, and whole-eye transplant initiatives with ARPA-H.

In This Episode:

[01:30] Jason reflects on his transition from the pharmaceutical world to nonprofit work and what drew him to the Foundation.

[03:10] Discussion of Luxturna’s groundbreaking FDA approval and how early Foundation funding contributed to its success.

[05:30] Jason explains how the Foundation balances basic and translational research to accelerate cures for retinal diseases.

[07:45] Overview of the Foundation’s five-year strategic plan and its flexible approach to adapting research priorities.

[09:15] Insight into the importance of collaboration among universities, the NIH, and industry partners to move discoveries into the clinic.

[11:00] Jason highlights the creation and purpose of the R&D Fund, a venture philanthropy model launched in 2018.

[13:00] The Fund’s success in achieving an 8-to-1 leverage ratio and attracting top venture capital partners.

[15:10] How the Foundation conducts due diligence when selecting companies for investment.

[17:30] Explanation of how the R&D Fund differs from traditional research grants and why selectivity is key.

[19:00] Jason introduces the Venture Philanthropy Enhancement Act and discusses its potential impact on funding for rare diseases.

[22:00] Story of a near-failed company that survived through philanthropic support and produced life-changing clinical trial results.

[24:00] The Foundation’s suite of grants and awards supporting early-career and translational researchers.

[26:10] Career Development Awards and their role in retaining top talent in retinal disease research.

[28:00] How the Foundation partners with tech transfer offices to bridge the “Valley of Death” between discovery and commercialization.

[30:00] Metrics beyond publications—how FFB measures its real-world impact on treatments and cures.

[32:15] Jason shares the emerging technologies he finds most promising, including gene-agnostic and cell-based therapies.

[34:10] Discussion on the global prevalence of blindness and the Foundation’s efforts to prioritize late-stage and restorative therapies.

[36:00] Jason outlines upcoming funding opportunities and deadlines for university researchers.

[37:30] Final reflections on hope, awareness, and collaboration shaping the future of vision restoration.

Resources:

Jason Menzo - Foundation Fighting Blindness

Jason Menzo - LinkedIn

Jason Menzo - X

From Ideas to Impact: Kentucky’s Statewide Commercialization Approach with Kayla Meisner

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 07:00:21 +0000

Not every university has the resources to build and maintain a Tech Transfer office, and for many smaller institutions, that has long meant sitting on the sidelines. In Kentucky, leaders decided to try something different. Instead of each campus building its own program from scratch, they pooled efforts into a single statewide network. That collaboration became Kentucky Commercialization Ventures, or KCV, a model that’s now showing what inclusive innovation can look like in practice.

At the center of this work is Kayla Meisner, Executive Director of KCV, who has guided the initiative from an early concept into a growing program with national attention. Since its launch in 2020, KCV has more than tripled its funding, doubled its staff, and helped innovators at all levels find clear pathways into commercialization. By combining proof-of-concept funding with hands-on coaching and shared services, the team has turned early ideas into intellectual property, startups, and partnerships that feed back into Kentucky’s economy.

In this episode, Kayla explains what it takes to build trust across institutions, how programs like the Innovation Fellowship and KCV Invent are preparing the next generation of talent, and why partnerships outside of academia are strengthening the state’s innovation ecosystem. She also reflects on what other regions can learn from Kentucky’s experience, from getting state economic leaders on board to setting up governance that keeps everyone invested in long-term success.

In This Episode:

[03:18] Kayla shares the origins of KCV and how it fits within the Kentucky Science and Technology Corporation’s 40-year mission.

[05:24] She explains how state dollars are invested into proof-of-concept funding and stipends to support innovators.

[06:30] Kayla describes the challenges Kentucky faced as an EPSCoR and NIH IDeA state and why collective action was needed.

[09:37] She outlines the gap analysis that showed most partner schools lacked IP policies and full-time tech transfer staff.

[12:15] The discussion turns to how KCV scaled its services while running on less than $1 million a year in the early days.

[15:30] Kayla highlights the importance of coaching and mentorship in turning early-stage disclosures into IP.

[17:40] The story of Dr. Rachel Tinius at Western Kentucky University illustrates how small investments can lead to major commercialization success.

[18:26] Kayla talks about the KCV Innovation Fellowship and how it prepares students and faculty for entrepreneurship.

[22:06] She explains how the fellowship has grown into a semester-based, cohort model that builds practical commercialization skills.

[24:11] The conversation shifts to Kentucky’s six regional innovation hubs and their statewide economic impact.

[29:01] Kayla details how KCV now requires assessments before opt-in, creating clearer pathways and buy-in for institutions and innovators.

[32:37] The IMPACT competition is discussed, with KCV celebrating its first-ever community and technical college winner.

[35:17] Kayla addresses the $8.25 million NSF EDGE award and the systemic barriers it is helping to solve at smaller institutions.

[46:28] She reflects on the challenge of securing sustainable funding and the importance of demonstrating ROI.

[49:57] Kayla highlights ecosystem partnerships with groups like the Kentucky Bar Association, USPTO, and Kentucky Distillers Association.

[54:30] The conversation explores talent development through internships and the launch of KCV Invent, funded by the NSF Excellence Program.

[56:43] Kayla offers three recommendations for other states interested in replicating the KCV model: build state relationships, conduct gap analyses, and establish governance.

[59:45] She reflects on what has surprised her most about the centralized approach and why it has proven so effective.

Resources:

Kayla Meisner - Kentucky Commercialization Ventures

Kayla Meisner - LinkedIn

Kentucky Science & Technology Corporation

Dr. Rachel Tinius, Ph.D., EP-C

BumptUp Labs

USPTO – Midwest Regional Office

The Price of Patents: How New Tax Proposals Could Transform IP Strategy with Erin Daly

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 07:00:47 +0000

A proposed shift in U.S. patent policy is sparking debate about the future of intellectual property. The idea on the table is a value-based tax that would replace, or sit on top of, the USPTO’s traditional flat-fee system. Instead of paying predictable maintenance fees, patent owners could face annual charges tied to the assessed value of their inventions. This move would dramatically change how portfolios are managed and funded.

To walk us through the implications, we’re joined by Erin M. Daly, Ph.D., Esq., founder of Daly Law & Strategy. Erin started out in organic chemistry before moving into patent law, and she’s spent her career working with biotech companies and universities on everything from early-stage research to clinical programs. That combination of lab background and legal know-how gives her a practical view of how changes in patent policy land on the ground.

We discuss why putting a dollar value on patents is never straightforward and how a tax like this could create big headaches for industries that depend on large portfolios, like biotech, semiconductors, and emerging green technologies. We also look at what startups and universities might face if they’re hit with new costs long before their patents generate any revenue.

In This Episode:

[01:57] The proposed value-based patent tax is outlined and contrasted with current USPTO fees.

[02:50] Erin explains how the new system would resemble a property tax on intellectual property.

[03:49] The U.S. has historically treated patents as a right supported by fees, not as taxable assets.

[04:42] The proposal is still at the idea stage with no formal rule or bill introduced.

[06:08] Patent valuation challenges are described, including subjectivity and lack of comparables.

[08:07] Legal questions emerge about USPTO authority, due process, and potential litigation.

[10:44] Erin outlines compliance concerns, audits, and paperwork burdens if the IRS were involved.

[12:49] Biotech and pharma are identified as sectors most at risk under a value-based tax.

[13:45] Semiconductor and AI industries could face massive valuation tracking costs.

[14:40] Green tech companies may abandon patents if taxed before commercialization.

[15:59] Strategic steps for tech transfer offices and companies to assess exposure are discussed.

[17:39] Trade secrets may become more appealing as an alternative to patents in some cases.

[18:24] Companies might restructure portfolios or shift filings internationally to reduce risk.

[20:45] Erin emphasizes the importance of monitoring Congress, Federal Register updates, and IRS guidance.

[22:55] Coalition groups and bar associations begin mobilizing to oppose the tax proposal.

[23:33] Early legal challenges are expected to test the limits of USPTO authority and valuation disputes.

[25:26] We close with a reminder that patent costs are under increasing scrutiny.

Resources:

Erin M. Daly, Ph.D. - LinkedIn

Daly Law & Strategy

Daly Law & Strategy - Facebook

USPTO (United States Patent and Trademark Office)

Federal Register

BIO (Biotechnology Innovation Organization)

Intellectual Property Owners Association (IPO)

The AUTM Better World Project Revisited: An Updated Look at Technology Transfer's Global Impact

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 07:00:29 +0000

How do discoveries in a university lab make their way into everyday life? That question sits at the heart of AUTM’s Better World Project. When it first launched almost 20 years ago, it was just a small booklet with a handful of stories. Today, it’s grown into a global showcase with more than 600 examples of how technology transfer changes lives. In this episode, we’re taking another look at the project, what’s new, and why it continues to matter.

I’m joined by RK Narayanan, Senior Director of Business Development and Technology Transfer at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. Since 2017, RK has been leading partnerships and collaborations there, but his path stretches across both research and commercialization. He earned a PhD in Molecular and Cellular Biology from the University of Arizona and an MBA from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Earlier in his career, he held research roles at Harvard Medical School and MIT before stepping into technology management at Illinois, where he oversaw more than 200 innovations in the life sciences. He brings a strong focus on value creation and mentorship to his work in tech transfer.

Also joining us is Parag Vasekar, Business Development and Licensing Manager for Physical Sciences at Purdue Research Foundation’s Office of Technology Commercialization. Parag’s training covers the full spectrum of materials science. He holds degrees from Pune University in India, Vanderbilt University, and the University of Central Florida, where he earned his PhD. His career has spanned both academia and industry, and today he plays a key role in evaluating technologies and shaping licensing agreements at Purdue. He also serves as co-chair of AUTM’s Better World Project Committee, giving him an inside view of how the initiative has expanded and adapted over time.

Together, RK and Parag walk us through the growth of the Better World Project from those early printed pages to today’s award-winning stories. We’ll talk about standout innovations like UMass Amherst’s PFAS-destroying water purification system, the artificial pancreas, and breakthrough cancer treatments. More importantly, we’ll hear why this project isn’t just about showcasing innovation, but about showing the human impact of university research on communities worldwide.

In This Episode:

[01:30] RK’s career path is highlighted, from research at Harvard and MIT to overseeing 200 innovations at Illinois.

[02:00] Parag’s academic and professional journey is detailed, with expertise in materials science and licensing.

[03:12] The Better World Project has grown from hundreds to more than 600 innovation stories.

[04:57] Examples like the Honeycrisp apple, N95 mask, and Google show university research impact.

[05:39] The project began as a way to highlight outcomes of the Bayh-Dole Act and has since gone global.

[06:14] From print to online multimedia, the growth reflects the maturing of the field.

[07:01] Parag shares what drew him to the project and how it connects the “what” of tech transfer to the “why.”

[09:09] RK explains how the project’s expansion shows the maturation of tech transfer beyond transactions.

[10:14] Impact is measured in healthier patients, cleaner water, and stronger communities.

[10:49] Lisa references Kate Zernike’s call for better storytelling in academic research.

[11:22] Parag outlines the Better World Project Award process and the criteria for submissions.

[12:29] The committee reviews entries before finalists go to the AUTM community for a vote.

[13:26] UMass Amherst’s PFAS-destroying water purification system is highlighted as the 2025 winner.

[14:38] Judging criteria have broadened from blockbuster drugs to more holistic measures of impact.

[15:48] The committee looks for “aha” moments where research curiosity directly impacts lives.

[16:33] RK explains how the project highlights long-term value beyond licensing revenue.

[17:04] Examples like the artificial pancreas and PFAS system show impact measured in human terms.

[18:22] Representation matters: the project spans medical devices, agriculture, and consumer products.

[19:03] A story from Pakistan’s NUST about a vibrational wave therapy device illustrates global reach.

[20:25] The project’s role during the pandemic highlighted universities’ rapid responses and collaboration.

[21:35] Stories included rapid diagnostic tests, open-source ventilators, PPE solutions, and vaccines.

[22:27] The key lesson: urgency and collaboration enable universities to meet global challenges.

[23:08] Parag describes how multimedia storytelling broadened the project’s reach and emotional impact.

[24:46] Barriers for smaller offices include staff limitations and lack of marketing expertise.

[25:31] AUTM staff provide editorial support and encourage frequent submissions.

[26:11] Parag shares the committee’s vision for the next five years, focusing on global reach and diversity.

[27:05] New story categories now include AI, sustainability, and social sciences.

[28:39] RK explains how storytelling makes the impact of university research clear to policymakers.

[29:28] With more than 600 examples, the project provides credible evidence of impact.

[30:08] The initiative is adapting to showcase AI, climate change, and global health innovations.

[31:42] Examples include carbon capture, agricultural advances, telemedicine, and vaccine technologies.

[32:19] The call is made for institutions worldwide to submit stories by October 15.

[33:38] The committee is currently full but encourages volunteering at future meetings.

[34:11] RK highlights Spinraza, developed at Cold Spring Harbor, as a personally inspiring story.

[35:19] The partnership with Ionis Pharmaceuticals shows the power of sustained collaboration.

[36:49] Parag points to Allegra as a reminder that consumer products also emerge from research labs.

[37:30] COVID-era stories reinforced how global tech transfer can adapt quickly.

[38:08] Both guests share their hopes for the project’s legacy as more than just a collection of stories.

[39:50] We encourage relentless storytelling and contributions to the archive.

[41:11] The Better World Project has become a powerful advocacy tool.

[42:27] Submissions for the 2026 Better World Project Award are now open.

[43:18] Let’s keep making the world better through technology transfer.

Resources:

RK Narayanan - LinkedIn

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

Parag Vasekar - LinkedIn

Purdue Office of Technology Commercialization

Submissions for the 2026 Better World Project Award

Research Integrity and the High Stakes for Technology Transfer with Michael R. Samardzija

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 07:00:53 +0000

Most people hear the phrase “research misconduct” and think it’s an issue reserved for academia. But the truth is, it can rock the entire innovation ecosystem. One altered image in a dissertation might sound small, but it can snowball into collapsed companies, hundreds of millions in losses, and a deep erosion of trust in science itself.

Joining me to dig into this reality is Michael R. Samardzija, Senior Counsel at Womble Bond Dickinson. Michael’s career is unique because he’s lived on both sides of the technology transfer world. He earned his PhD in Physiology and a Master’s in Exercise Physiology from Loma Linda University, then went on to get his JD from the University of San Diego.

Over the past two decades, he’s worn many hats including Vice President of Research Affairs at Loma Linda University Health, where he launched the N3eight business incubator, Director of Intellectual Property at MD Anderson Cancer Center, and leadership roles at firms like Dentons and Bracewell & Giuliani. That blend of academic and legal experience gives him a rare perspective on the challenges TTOs face every day.

Michael recently put a name to something many of us have only seen in fragments what he calls “Research Misconduct’s Butterfly Effects”. It’s the idea that what looks like a single, contained problem in a lab can ripple outward, creating consequences for commercialization, partnerships, and the credibility of institutions. Today, he’s here to break down those connections and share what they mean for technology transfer professionals navigating this complex landscape.

In This Episode:

[01:29] Michael’s dual background in law and academia is outlined, including his leadership roles and IP experience.

[02:11] Michael explains “Research Misconduct’s Butterfly Effects” and why it matters for technology transfer professionals.

[02:59] Defining research misconduct with fabrication, falsification, or plagiarism, proven by preponderance of the evidence.

[04:04] Misconduct in publications can invalidate patents, licenses, and commercialization efforts.

[05:27] Michael shares how his career shaped his views on risk management for TTOs and the rising tide of retractions.

[06:03] Licensees may begin requiring universities to warrant patents that are free of misconduct, a risk institutions must prepare for.

[07:12] Tech transfer offices should consider sequestering underlying data to provide transparency for licensees.

[07:51] Organized fraud networks, “paper mills,” and systemic pressures to publish are fueling misconduct at scale.

[09:13] A student uncovers duplicate publications across different journals, leading to a retraction.

[10:18] Publication mills profit by selling authorship or fabricated manuscripts, creating an industry of fraudulent science.

[12:21] High-profile cases show faculty losing positions over fabricated or cherry-picked data, with countries like India now imposing strict punishments.

[13:49] International collaborations bring value but also increase risk when oversight standards differ globally.

[14:15] Case study of Athira Pharma illustrates how research misconduct spiraled into legal, financial, and reputational crises.

[15:06] Faculty at Washington State University discover dementia drug candidate Dihexa and form a startup.

[17:01] Millions in NIH funding and clinical trials follow, but manipulated images in early publications trigger scrutiny.

[18:22] The former graduate student admits to embellishing images, yet fundraising and IPOs continue, raising over $400M.

[20:04] A whistleblower files a False Claims Act suit, leading to DOJ involvement and company stock plummeting 40%.

[21:16] The case settles for $4 million, with ongoing investigations, shareholder lawsuits, and SEC concerns.

[23:02] Washington State University removes the student’s dissertation and launches an inquiry.

[24:12] Athira’s valuation collapses from $670M in 2020 to $25M in 2025, showing the profound damage of misconduct.

[25:00] Michael stresses the need for better due diligence, expert involvement, and clear standards on acceptable data/image alterations.

[27:21] TTOs should resist warranties but offer licensees access to original data for their own investigations.

[28:38] Retracted papers may serve as tools in patent prosecution or litigation, a double-edged sword for TTOs.

[29:09] Practical steps for TTOs include careful fraud language in agreements and collaboration with research integrity offices.

[32:01] Recommendations include close coordination with integrity officers, rapid response plans, and careful handling of inventor payouts.

[34:24] Michael advises TTO professionals to self-report suspicions quickly to protect institutional reputation.

[36:20] Tech Transfer professionals should innovate with integrity and stay vigilant against misconduct.

Resources:

Michael R. Samardzija - Womble Bond Dickinson

Michael R. Samardzija - LinkedIn

Michael R. Samardzija - Loma Linda University

Office of Research Integrity (ORI), HHS

Inside the USPTO: Dr. Julie Burke on Culture, Quality, and Reform

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 07:00:30 +0000

What does it take to safeguard innovation while making sure the patent system truly serves inventors and society? That’s the heart of today’s conversation, and few people are better positioned to answer than Dr. Julie Burke.

Today, she brings a unique perspective to the world of intellectual property and patent prosecution. Dr. Burke spent more than two decades in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, eventually stepping into the role of Quality Assurance Specialist in Technology Center 1600. Her path there was built on a strong scientific foundation: a degree in molecular biology, a Ph.D. in biochemistry, and postdoctoral work at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, where she earned a grant from the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation to study the CFTR protein.

At the USPTO, she examined applications in areas that changed the course of modern medicine such as cancer immunology and recombinant antibody technologies. She also handled more than 900 petitions and received multiple awards for her contributions to patent quality and international guidelines.

After leaving the Office, Dr. Burke brought her expertise to Knobbe Martens, later founded IP Quality Pro LLC, and has since become a recognized voice through her expert witness work and widely published articles. She also advises Petition.ai and serves on the board of the Association for American Innovation, where she advocates for policies that encourage inventors to keep creating.

Dr. Burke candidly opens up about her career journey, the culture inside the USPTO, and the systemic challenges that affect patent quality. She also points us toward a future where reforms, transparency, and a renewed commitment to excellence can strengthen the system while unlocking more innovation for everyone.

In This Episode:

[02:52] Dr. Burke shares her academic journey through Biogen, Imperial Cancer Research Fund, and Johns Hopkins, and how she was pointed toward the USPTO.

[05:20] She reflects on family ties to public service and her idealistic start at the USPTO.

[05:51] Early years as a cancer immunology examiner and later transition to Quality Assurance Specialist in TC1600.

[08:26] She describes USPTO culture, personalities of examiners, and the complaints she fielded as a QA specialist.

[10:36] Dr. Burke recounts being told that allowing a patent on first action would earn her a derogatory label, and what that revealed about PTO culture.

[12:22] Discussion of the “reject, reject, reject” mentality and how examiners were pressured into repeat RCEs.

[14:55] Dr. Burke introduces the Sensitive Application Warning System (SAWS) program and explains how it secretly blocked pioneering cases.

[17:42] How SAWS expanded into looking at inventors’ backgrounds, including finances and character.

[18:32] Comparisons to IRS “BOLO” lists and the chilling effect of having allowances pulled at the last moment.

[28:48] Dr. Burke explains new challenges with petition review work, including restrictions and procedures that create extra burdens.

[32:41] What needs to change to address some of these quality issues.

[37:12] Hazing culture in the Patent Training Academy and high attrition among new examiners.

[41:00] Impact of PTAB changes: trials scaled back, discretionary denials increased, and appeals expedited.

[42:11] Loss of examiner tools like ChemDraw and SciFinder forces some to use personal computers, creating security risks.

[52:28] Dr. Burke contrasts production bonuses with quality bonuses, and the damage this does to examination integrity.

[55:12] Reports show 40% of litigated patents invalidated which goes back to flawed performance incentives.

[58:40] Current restraints and cuts are hard on patent examiners and students and inventors.

[01:02:15] We discuss examiner morale, loss of union protections, and management culture shifts.

[01:05:47] She shares closing reflections on reforms needed for transparency, consistency, and examiner support.

[01:09:32] Dr. Burke connects the role of professional “guilds” in maintaining quality, and draws parallels to historical trade guilds.

[01:12:54] Optimism about the Association for American Innovation (AAI) and its independent reform agenda.

Resources:

Dr. Julie Burke - IP Watchdog

Dr. Julie Burke - LinkedIn

Petition AI

The Landmark Cases That Shaped Biotech Patents with Jorge Goldstein

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 07:00:49 +0000

Biotechnology law has evolved from a niche specialty into one of the most complex and debated areas of intellectual property, and Dr. Jorge Goldstein has been at the center of that journey. A founding partner of Stern, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox, Jorge has spent more than four decades helping define the legal boundaries of the life sciences while working alongside scientists, startups, and global institutions at the very front edge of discovery. His career path, shaped by mentors who saw the future in biology and patents, offers a rare window into how law and science grew together during the biotechnology revolution.

His new book, Patenting Life: Tales from the Front Lines of Intellectual Property and the New Biology, captures that history through the people, cases, and controversies that shaped modern biotech. From the Chakrabarty decision that opened the door for patenting living inventions, to the Wands case that created the well-known enablement factors, Jorge brings to life the courtroom battles and policy debates that continue to influence how research becomes innovation. He also shares behind-the-scenes stories from his own practice, including the Myriad Genetics dispute over gene patents and the still-unfolding CRISPR battles that pit leading universities and scientists against each other.

We also talk about artificial intelligence as the next great test for intellectual property law. With AI already designing new drugs and synthetic proteins, it raises the question of inventorship as more pressing than ever. The law still recognizes only human inventors. Change will have to come from Congress, and future generations of lawyers will be tasked with rewriting the rules for a world where human and machine creativity overlap. This conversation connects a past, present, and future that underscores how much the definition of “invention” shapes the pace of discovery.

In This Episode:

[01:21] Jorge describes how he came from Argentina to study chemistry at RPI, pursued a PhD at Harvard, and was encouraged by mentor Frank Westheimer to study biology.

[02:15] Auditing James Watson’s molecular biology course opened his eyes to the future of genetics during the early days of recombinant DNA research.

[03:45] He recalls being unaware of groundbreaking advances like monoclonal antibodies while focused on his thesis work.

[04:48] Jorge explains why lab research didn’t suit him, realizing his temperament wasn’t suited for years of trial and error and delayed gratification.

[06:32] A Harvard Law student introduced him to patent law, and he quickly saw its potential in the emerging field of biotechnology.

[07:20] The Chakrabarty Supreme Court decision allowing patents on living organisms solidified his decision to enter biotech IP law.

[08:21] Jorge recounts co-founding Stern Kessler Goldstein & Fox with Robert Stern, combining expertise in biology and electronics for a future-focused law firm.

[10:15] Early interactions with young biotech companies like Genentech, Amgen, and Genetics Institute showed the demand for lawyers fluent in science.

[11:48] He credits Marvin Guthrie of Massachusetts General Hospital with mentoring him on IP strategy and diplomacy in academic-industry partnerships.

[13:31] Jorge explains how Guthrie, a founder of AUTM, gave him access to top scientists and Nobel Prize winners, shaping his approach to tech transfer.

[14:51] He introduces his book Patenting Life and explains his motivation to document the history of biotech commercialization through human stories.

[17:02] A writers’ circle helped him shed legal and scientific jargon, making the book approachable for a broader audience.

[18:22] Jorge revisits the Myriad Genetics case over gene patents, explaining why eligibility battles over isolated DNA became so significant.

[21:15] He describes the shock when a district court ruled that isolated genes were not patentable, contrary to decades of biotech practice.

[23:48] The Federal Circuit reversed that ruling, with Judge Lourie emphasizing covalent bonds, before the Supreme Court ultimately sided against gene patents.

[27:10] Jorge reflects on how the Supreme Court’s unanimous decision in Myriad reshaped eligibility standards under Section 101.

[30:45] He notes how subsequent cases, including Prometheus and Alice, further unsettled patent law in diagnostics and other industries.

[32:05] Jorge turns to In re Wands, explaining how it tested enablement of broad antibody claims and became a landmark case.

[35:10] He recalls oral arguments before the Federal Circuit, including Judge Pauline Newman pressing the Patent Office on the impossibility of requiring unlimited deposits.

[39:32] The resulting decision established the eight “Wands factors,” which remain central to enablement analysis today.

[41:42] Jorge highlights how Wands has been cited thousands of times and even survived scrutiny in the recent Amgen v. Sanofi case.

[44:15] He shares a personal story about Jack Wands, who the case was named after and dedicating a chapter of his book to him before his passing in 2023.

[46:01] The conversation shifts to the CRISPR patent battle between UC Berkeley/Vienna and the Broad Institute, one of the most high-profile disputes in biotech law.

[49:25] Jorge explains the interference process under the former first-to-invent system and why it made the CRISPR case especially complex.

[52:10] Statements from Jennifer Doudna expressing scientific uncertainty were used against her in the legal proceedings.

[54:40] He outlines how these admissions shaped arguments around conception versus reduction to practice.

[57:16] Jorge recalls the year-long wait for the Federal Circuit’s ruling, which ultimately found that doubts expressed by inventors should not determine conception.

[58:38] The appeals court sent the case back to the Patent Office with instructions to apply the correct legal test, leaving the battle unresolved.

[1:00:08] He turns to emerging concerns about artificial intelligence in biotech innovation, from drug repurposing to protein design.

[1:01:15] Jorge notes that current law does not recognize AI as an inventor, creating challenges for patenting AI-driven discoveries.

[1:02:29] He argues that Congress should update patent law to allow AI to be recognized as a co-inventor, since control of patent rights is ultimately what matters.

[1:03:15] Jorge closes by urging the next generation of lawyers to focus on AI’s impact on inventorship and the need for law to adapt to new models of innovation.

Resources:

Jorge A. Goldstein

Jorge A. Goldstein - LinkedIn

Jorge A. Goldstein, Ph.D. - Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox

Patenting Life: Tales from the Front Lines of Intellectual Property and the New Biology

Seismic Shifts: The Future of Tech Transfer Amidst Crisis and Uncertainty with Jodie Richardson

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 07:00:58 +0000

Federal funding shakeups and new cost caps are hitting Tech Transfer offices from multiple angles. Jodie Richardson, Director of Customer Success at TechPipeline and Chair of AUTM’s Annual Meeting Planning Committee, has been right in the middle of these conversations. With a background in strategic planning, cross-functional leadership, and compliance, she’s been gathering insights from leaders across the country on how they’re coping along with what might come next.

Her recent article, Weathering the Storm: How TTOs are Navigating Overhead Rate Caps and Federal Funding Challenges, dives into the real-world effects of these changes. In this conversation, Jodie talks about the hiring freezes and budget cuts many offices are facing, the drop in invention disclosures, and why those shifts could have lasting consequences for commercialization pipelines, startups, and research infrastructure. She also shares how teams are rethinking patent strategies, keeping industry relationships steady in a volatile climate, and preparing for an unprecedented level of federal compliance scrutiny.

The discussion reaches into other stress points too including uncertainty around SBIR/STTR funding, the added hurdles in international collaborations, and the scramble to find alternative funding through alumni networks, foundations, and state programs. Jodie offers ideas for retaining talent, boosting staff morale, and making sure the public understands just how much academic research shapes everyday life. Even with all the challenges, she sees reason for optimism, pointing to the adaptability and problem-solving spirit that has always defined the tech transfer community.

In This Episode:

[01:12] Jodie explains what prompted her to write the article and how she brought together senior Tech Transfer leaders to talk through the fast-moving changes, challenges, and strategies.

[03:22] She describes the anxiety and uncertainty created by daily breaking news affecting research and the innovation ecosystem.

[05:19] The new 15% indirect cost cap from NIH, DOE, NSF, and now DOD is creating immediate concern, leading to hiring freezes, budget freezes, and reduced invention disclosures.

[06:48] Staffing shortages are adding pressure to existing Tech Transfer staff who are trying to maintain operations and support faculty.

[08:21] Researchers are spending more time securing alternative funding, adding to the workload for TTO staff who were already under stress.

[09:40] Jodie outlines the potential long-term risks to commercialization pipelines, startup formation, and the wider innovation ecosystem if disclosure declines continue.

[10:53] Patent strategies are shifting, with offices becoming more selective about filings, especially international patents, and focusing resources on cases with strong commercialization prospects.

[12:17] Green energy, climate tech, biotech, and vaccine technologies are among the areas seeing greater selectivity.

[13:04] Industry hesitation is impacting both sponsorships and licensing deals, with some master research agreements put on hold indefinitely.

[14:57] Communication is key. Offices are proactively engaging with industry sponsors and licensees to understand concerns and salvage opportunities.

[15:45] On August 8, the Trump administration announced a federal review of Harvard’s patents, threatening to exercise Bayh-Dole march-in rights.

[17:35] Jodie talks about the unprecedented scale of this review and the short 30-day timeline to respond for thousands of inventions.

[19:22] She stresses the importance of thorough documentation, compliance audits, and internal collaboration within the TTO.

[22:41] The future of SBIR/STTR programs is uncertain, and startups are concerned about potential changes to qualification requirements and funding levels.

[24:33] TTOs are partnering with venture support programs, industry engagement, and sponsored programs offices to help startups navigate possible funding gaps.

[25:47] International collaborations face more red tape, with abrupt halts to some projects and tighter screening for partners in countries like China and Russia.

[28:34] Ensuring licensees meet U.S. manufacturing requirements is becoming a greater priority in international deals.

[29:21] Alumni foundations and state economic development programs are emerging as important sources of alternative funding.

[31:28] Some states have increased funding to offset reductions in federal research dollars, though most cannot fully close the gap.

[33:05] Jodie warns of the potential erosion of research infrastructure and loss of innovation leaders if talent leaves the U.S.

[35:42] Institutions can help retain faculty and researchers by stepping in to support projects when funding is lost and easing the commercialization burden.

[37:52] Shifts in research focus toward “safer” areas could reduce groundbreaking, high-risk innovations such as climate tech, vaccine development, and women’s health research.

[39:35] Staff morale is being tested by uncertainty; transparent communication and safe spaces for discussion are critical.

[42:21] National meetings like AUTM’s annual gathering provide opportunities for shared support, optimism, and advocacy.

[43:40] Jodie sees a need for greater public education about how federally funded research works and the technologies it produces.

[46:01] Even with the challenges, Jodie remains optimistic about the adaptability and resilience of the tech transfer community.

Resources:

Jodie Richardson - Tech Pipeline

Jodie Richardson - LinkedIn

Weathering the Storm: How TTOs are Navigating Overhead Rate Caps and Federal Funding Challenges

SBIR/STTR Programs

Patents, Peer Review, and Policy: What Congress Needs to Understand Now with Kate Zernike

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 07:00:24 +0000

America's leadership in global innovation depends on the critical link between federal policy and scientific funding. Cuts to research budgets, restrictions on international visas, and the rollback of diversity programs are converging to create uncertainty that threaten labs, universities, and communities that depend on them. What happens in the next budget cycle will determine whether the U.S. continues to set the pace for global discovery or risks ceding that ground to competitors eager to recruit American-trained talent.

I’m thrilled to welcome back Kate Zernike, Pulitzer Prize–winning national correspondent for The New York Times. Kate brings both personal understanding and journalistic rigor to covering science policy. Her grandfather was Nobel Prize–winning physicist Frits Zernike, and she has spent decades reporting on the politics of research and innovation. She is perhaps best known for breaking the 1999 story of MIT’s admission that it had discriminated against women on its faculty. This reporting laid the foundation for her acclaimed 2023 book The Exceptions: Nancy Hopkins, MIT, and the Fight for Women in Science.

Her distinguished career also includes a Pulitzer for explanatory reporting on Al Qaeda in 2002, underscoring her ability to connect complex issues to the human stories behind them. In this episode, we discuss her recent reporting on two pivotal articles: U.S. Scientists Warn That Trump’s Cuts Will Set Off a Brain Drain and The Surprising Scientists Hit by Trump’s DEI Cuts. She explains how uncertainty is pushing young researchers to reconsider careers in science, forcing labs to halt promising projects such as mRNA cancer research, and eroding public trust in the scientific enterprise after COVID.

She also reveals a surprising twist where many of the scientists most affected by DEI rollbacks are rural, first-generation, and conservative-leaning students who depended on those programs to access research careers. We also take on the breaking news of the federal government’s unprecedented investigation into Harvard’s patents under the Bayh-Dole Act, a move that raises profound questions about intellectual property, peer review, and the future of university–industry partnerships.

In This Episode:

[02:10] We’ll discuss Kate’s June 3rd article on Trump’s proposed funding cuts and the potential “brain drain” in U.S. science.

[04:45] The American Dream story of Nobel laureate Ardem Patapoutian and concerns from scientists at Harvard and Johns Hopkins.

[06:00] Why U.S. science relies heavily on international talent and the risks of disrupting this pipeline.

[07:23] Cultural differences and how countries like India prioritize science as a top career path compared to the U.S.

[08:23] Evidence of China, France, Germany, and others actively recruiting American-trained scientists.

[10:03] Historical perspective and the migration of rocket scientists after WWII and how talent shaped U.S. supremacy in science.

[12:22] NIH and NSF budget cuts, with biotechnology and computer science research seen as most vulnerable.

[15:30] How federal research funding connects to U.S. competitiveness and public misconceptions of science.

[18:45] Making the case for better science communication and opening up opportunities in science.

[20:35] We talk about DEI grant cuts and the impact on rural and socioeconomically diverse scientists.

[21:35] Stories of researchers like Lucas Dillard, Gabrielle Merchant, Ashley Albright, and Nicole Gross losing critical grants.

[23:50] The lingering resentment toward science post-COVID and challenges in rebuilding public trust.

[24:48] Simultaneous threats including funding cuts, talent loss, DEI program eliminations, and IP risks are compounding uncertainty.

[27:00] The taxpayer debate and making the case for return on investment from university research.

[29:20] Key message to policymakers is that sustained funding is essential to avoid halting critical discoveries.

[30:01] Cancer research and mRNA projects at risk, including prostate cancer studies being shut down.

[31:30] What gives Kate hope includes pushback from within the government, and scientists’ enduring joy, and commitment to discovery.

[32:54] Where to find Kate’s articles and book, and a call to policymakers ahead of the 2026 budget cycle!

Resources:

Kate Zernike

Kate Zernike - New York Times

Kate Zernike - LinkedIn

Exposing Discrimination in Science: The Story of Nancy Hopkins and MIT with Kate Zernike

U.S. Scientists Warn That Trump’s Cuts Will Set Off a Brain Drain

The Surprising Scientists Hit by Trump’s DEI Cuts

The Exceptions: Nancy Hopkins, MIT, and the Fight for Women in Science

Frits Zernike

How McGill’s Innovation Fund Turns Research Into Real-World Impact with Junji Nishihata

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 07:00:32 +0000

The McGill Innovation Fund was created to fill a big gap in early-stage research funding and help promising ideas make the leap from the lab into the real world. In this episode, Senior Communications Advisor Junji Nishihata shares the story of how the fund came about in 2021, just as McGill University was marking its 200th anniversary, and why it’s different from other campus competitions.

Instead of focusing on general entrepreneurship, the MIF is tied directly to research through a formal report of invention. With three funding tiers ranging from $25,000 to $100,000 and a yearly budget of up to $350,000, it offers serious support to faculty, startups, and researchers looking to license their work.

But money is only part of the equation. Junji talks about the year-long support program that comes with every award bringing together alumni advisors, targeted mentorship, and practical workshops on everything from market strategy to regulatory pathways. The alumni network plays a huge role here, offering time, connections, and hard-won experience to help teams move forward.

We also get an inside look at success stories like cleantech startup Altiro Energy and biotech company DendroTEK, plus a peek at what’s ahead for the fund. From themed competitions in AI and clean tech to a possible high-profile pitch day, the MIF is working to break down the “ivory tower” perception of academic research and show its real-world value.

In This Episode:

[01:15] The McGill Innovation Fund started when McGill University was looking forward to its 200th anniversary in 2021. They were looking for big moonshot ideas that they could use to excite alumni around the world.

[02:05] At first they thought about making an investment fund, then they decided to focus on funding for early stage ideas.

[02:50] Eligibility criteria include a report of invention because it's based on research. They declare what the concept is and then the technology transfer team examines it in detail. Is it novel? Is it patentable?

[04:06] The objective of the innovation fund is to get stuff out of the lab and into the real world where it can make a difference.

[06:07] The MIF is divided into three different prize tiers: the Discover at $25,000, the Develop at $50,000, and the Deploy at $100,000.

[06:53] The yearly funding of a significant sum of money shows the university's commitment to innovation.

[07:27] The initial funding came from royalties collected from past Innovation successes.

[08:21] This shows that the university is serious about inventors and technology.

[09:02] They are moving towards donor and corporate support.

[10:16] The McGill Alumni Network is tremendous and has a lot of successful people who are willing to give back.

[11:11] Junji shares more about the award tiers.

[12:28] The McGill AMR Center or Antimicrobial Resistance Center offers a $75,000 top off in addition to the original award.

[14:05] How the fund has created transformations. Altiro energy came to them in the development stage and became successful and moved on.

[15:29] We learn about the support that is offered as well as funding. The big value comes in the support that follows the award. They develop a road map in conjunction with their alumni experts. They also have a series of Advisory board meetings every two months.

[17:45] They also have the McGillConnect platform.

[18:22] Tony Falco is a mentor that has started three companies. He's been in the trenches and knows how to help the teams.

[19:34] They have about 75 alumni that they reach out to.

[20:11] We learn about the success of DendroTEK.

[21:26] We talk about what is next for the fund and future ideas. He would like to grow it into something similar to Shark Tank and raise the profile of the alumni.

[22:36] He wants to show people the value that is created for society.

Resources:

Junji Nishihata - McGill University

Junji Nishihata - LinkedIn

Junji Nishihata - Instagram

McGill Innovation Fund

McGillConnect Platform

WARF at 100: Shaping Science, Society, and the Next Generation of Innovation

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 07:00:55 +0000

The Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation, or WARF, was created 100 years ago. It was a daring idea to turn scientific discoveries into real-world applications. Today marks the 100th anniversary. Since 1925, WARF has played a pioneering role in encouraging innovation, supporting scientific discovery, and ensuring that research at the University of Wisconsin-Madison benefits society.

To commemorate a century of influence, we're joined by four members of the WARF team, each with their own take on the past and future. Holly Adams, Contract Manager; Lesli Mark, Accelerator Manager; Michael Falk, Chief Intellectual Property and Licensing Officer; and Maureen Miner, Director of Human Resources and Cultural Advancement.

In this episode, we reflect on WARF's impact over the last century, from shaping national policy through the Bayh-Dole Act to commercializing breakthrough technologies in stem cell research, agriculture, and medical imaging.

You'll learn how the team is evolving WARF's purpose through new programs like Startup Advantage, deeper industry involvement, and the intentional incorporation of AI into IP strategy. We also look at how WARF maintains its collaborative, mission-driven culture, and what this means for the next generation of researchers and innovators. It's a discussion about legacy, leadership, and what it takes to keep innovation going today and into the next century.

In This Episode:

[02:41] We learn what celebrating 100 years of WARF means to our guests personally and professionally.

[03:37] WARF is an institution with stability even during ups and downs. It's a pleasure to serve a public research university.

[04:07] Invest in research and make a difference. Turning university ideas into real world impact.

[05:32] The Bayh-Dole Act was modeled on what WARF instituted and became a model for tech transfer around the country.

[06:24] Technological contributions include work with stem cells.

[07:51] How stem cell research helped a paralyzed man regain control of his extremities.

[09:52] Holly talks about how the needs and complexities of licensing agreements have evolved over the years. They need to streamline the formation of startups coming out of Wisconsin-Madison.

[10:29] The Startup Advantage Program is to help offset some of the costs that startups face.

[11:16] Communication and a proactive approach is needed to create licensing agreements and needed changes.

[12:06] How agreements and compliance have evolved overtime. They have a customized version of Salesforce and an online reporting tool.

[13:39] The vital role of contract management with agreement obligations and compliance. Visiting local startups is also a great method.

[14:43] Lesli is the Accelerator Manager for WARF. A lot of their work is in licensing. There needs to be more advancement in these technologies coming off of campus. Methods of selecting technology and moving forward have changed.

[16:22] Having subject matter experts helps accelerate the technology.

[18:32] Identifying and supporting some of the most promising projects. They look at 400 disclosures a year and flag ones that they think will have market impact and need their help.

[21:31] Opportunities and challenges of the next century of WARF include engaging with industry.

[22:41] Michael talks about IP and licensing. They have always been inventor focused. Each disclosure is a product of an inventor's life's work.

[24:26] Licensing success stories include advancements in medical imaging and radiopharmaceuticals and advances in agriculture.

[27:22] AI challenges and opportunities and preparing for the future.

[29:54] They are technology and inventor focused. Will a patent help a technology get out into the world?

[32:09] Maureen talks about the people and the mission driven culture. A lot of people are engaged and excited about working at WARF.

[33:35] They've focused on reaching everyone. All people can be inventors and they want to make sure that they can promote them and reach out.

[34:13] They've been strategic about celebrating innovations.

[35:02] They have a hybrid structure where they support and meet employees where they are. Along with a robust health and wellness program and benefits. They also encourage paid community involvement.

[36:49] Taking the vision of WARF and turning it over to employees.

[37:35] Michael is most proud of how researchers appreciate and respect WARF.

[38:43] WARF offers employees the opportunity to learn and grow.

[39:39] They are also very proud of the startups that they've been able to help.

[40:07] Being a valued partner and being a helpful resource supports the culture. Along with connections with colleagues.

[41:02] Carrying the WARF legacy forward.

Resources:

Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation: WARF

Holly Adams - WARF

Holly Adams - LinkedIn

Lesli Mark - WARF

Michael Falk - WARF

Maureen Miner - WARF

Maureen Miner - LinkedIn

Supporting Startups For Ocean Health And Coastal Resilience With Millicent Pitts

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 07:00:58 +0000

The blue economy is rapidly evolving. There’s a growing demand for innovation that’s both sustainable and scalable. Leading this work is Millicent Pitts, CEO and Executive Director of Ocean Exchange. Over the last ten years, she has helped the organization identify and support cutting-edge solutions that protect ocean health and strengthen coastal systems.

Millicent spent three decades in the chemical and materials industry, holding senior roles at BASF, Engelhard, Arco Chemical, and more. She also earned her MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. This background gives her a practical, business-minded approach to sustainability. She also serves as a mentor and judge for cleantech and ocean innovation competitions, including Creative Destruction Lab and NOAA’s Blue Economy Subcommittee.

Ocean Exchange is a catalyst for turning research into real-world impact. Through its $100,000 Neptune Awards and collegiate grants, the organization has supported over 170 finalists who have collectively raised more than $3.2 billion in funding. Millicent discusses how these non-dilutive awards and mentorship programs help innovators move from idea to execution. We also discuss why Tech Transfer professionals play an important role in identifying talent and technologies that are suited for the blue economy.

As one of just four national partners in NOAA’s Ocean Enterprise Accelerator, Ocean Exchange is expanding its reach through a well-funded initiative focused on ocean data, environmental resilience, and commercialization support. Today, we’ll highlight practical ways TTOs can engage, from encouraging student and faculty applications to joining review teams or helping innovators explore ocean use cases.

In This Episode:

[02:15] Millicent spent three decades in the chemical and materials industry. She benefited from working for companies that took environmental responsibility seriously.

[03:22] Ocean Exchange has been around for 14 years and has a global reach. Their mission has always been to help advance the adoption of innovative solutions for healthy oceans and resilient coastal systems.

[04:17] They moved from Savannah, Georgia to South Florida. South Florida is ground zero for many of these ocean and coastal system topics.

[05:32] One of the things when she joined the organization was to make it more marketing and business friendly.

[06:34] The more modern way of thinking of the blue economy embodies the idea that humans can use and interact with the ocean and not harm it.

[07:22] In their 13 years of granting, they've had about 170 finalists who have raised 3.2 billion dollars. Most of it was in seed rounds and venture capital.

[10:00] Ocean Exchange had a vision to find innovators and help their work have investment and societal impact.

[13:17] Lives will be uplifted wherever these innovations are implemented.

[14:04] How the ecosystem supports award applicants and winners beyond funding. A wide array of industry experts review the applications on impact, level of innovation, and ability to execute. This is part of their best network.

[21:18] The $100,000 Neptune Awards. They take in philanthropy from families and corporations. After the selection process, they end up with 15 finalists. The award goes to any innovation about oceans and coastal systems.

[22:55] Non-diluted funds are distributed meaning they don't take equity.

[28:35] How tech transfer offices can leverage the collegiate awards which helps them reach undergraduates. Tech Transfer offices help connect the students.

[33:13] We discuss applying to one or more of the NOAA accelerators. The National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Association, a part of the Department of Commerce, announced an accelerator program.

[35:21] There are seven groups in the continuum that put forth a national model.

[36:41] They want to reach more at the university and faculty level that have ocean use case innovations.

[40:40] Each group gets a grant of 14 million dollars over 4 years. 40% of that will go through TDC Awards, Technology Development and Commercialization Awards.

[41:13] Millicent manages these awards. The Great Lakes are also considered part of the ocean system. Most of the awards are between the range of 10,000 to 200,000 dollars.

[42:30] You have to complete one of the accelerator programs also. You need to separately apply for the TDC award and say how you're going to use the money.

[43:27] Goals include having at least $400,000 worth of non-dilutive grants.

[45:18] She really wants Tech Transfer managers and executives to engage and maybe even be an expert on their review team.

[46:14] There are great opportunities in the blue tech space, and they will help you through it.

[46:40] Key deadlines: The collegiate grants have a deadline of September. There is still time if you're in the Americas to apply for the $100,000 award. Apply at Oceanexchange.org.

Resources:

Ocean Exchange

Millicent Pitts - LinkedIn

Creative Destruction Lab

NOAA Blue Economy Subcommittee

F6S Platform

Millicent.Pitts@OceanExchange.org

(912) 257-0209

Rewriting the Rules of Disability and Work with Dr. Kirk Adams

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 07:00:11 +0000

Clarity can come from lived experience, and Dr. Kirk Adams brings that clarity into every conversation about inclusion. After losing his vision at age five, he began a journey that would shape his life, and the lives of countless others. What started as a personal challenge became a lifelong mission to him. He wanted to create a world where people with disabilities are seen, valued, and included. This is a wonderful story of persistence, purpose, and real leadership.

Dr. Adams has led some of the most influential organizations in the blindness and disability inclusion space. As the prior President and CEO of The Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc., and the American Foundation for the Blind, he focused on employment equity, community integration, and systemic change. He’s worked with tech giants like Google, Facebook, and Microsoft to make sure accessibility is part of the design. He’s also contributed to boards and task forces across sectors.

Now as Managing Director of Innovative Impact, LLC, Dr. Adams partners with organizations to build cultures of inclusion from the inside out. He believes that accessibility is about connection, opportunity, and the kind of leadership that invites people to bring their full selves to work. His academic background, including a Ph.D. on the employment of blind adults in corporate America, only deepens his understanding of the structural barriers so many still face and what it takes to overcome them.

In this episode, Dr. Adams shares lessons from his own journey, insights into the role of accessible innovation, and why hiring people with disabilities is smart business. Whether he’s talking about universal design or how to build trust through self-disclosure, he has a consistent message that inclusion benefits everyone.

In This Episode:

[04:44] We learn about Dr. Adams' personal journey of having detached retinas as a child and losing his vision.

[05:29] His parents actually moved to Oregon, so he could go to the Oregon School for the Blind.

[06:02] He was given three things at the school including skills needed for blind people such as traveling while blind and learning Braille. He was also given the gift of high expectations and the strong belief that he could overcome obstacles and solve problems.

[07:53] He had strong internal locus control meaning he was able to do things.

[08:26] After graduating from college, he had to go through the super arduous task of trying to find a job.

[09:52] After working in finance, he pivoted into the nonprofit sector, so he could create environments and opportunities for other people with disabilities.

[10:28] Leadership was the best lever he could use to create change. He got a masters and PhD in leadership because he felt this was the way to really implement change.

[14:52] Common barriers to workforce inclusion for people with disabilities include transportation and employer attitudes. Many don't understand that the lived experience of disability gives people unique opportunities to develop strengths that are really important in the workplace.

[17:13] The role of accessible innovation in creating a more inclusive workplace. We discuss the difference between an impairment and a disability.

[19:05] We want to reduce disabling situations as much as we can.

[20:37] Many people do not want to disclose their mental health issues. One of the best ways to help accommodate people with disabilities is to provide needed accommodations.

[22:47] Measuring disability inclusion in the workplace.

[24:34] Studies have shown that if 20% of the workforce has a disability, it becomes a better and more inclusive environment.

[25:28] Having inclusion for people with disabilities through all the processes of tech transfer.

[28:17] The importance of collecting demographic data for inclusion purposes.

[31:10] How things have changed and inclusivity is now a matter of discussion.

[32:02] Accelerating inclusion and encouraging the adoption of accessible technologies.

[34:35] It's important to preserve implementation and enforcement of things like the American Disabilities Act.

[35:31] How data for people with disabilities are underrepresented in large language models. Bias can be built into these models.

[37:46] Projects and initiatives that Dr. Adams is currently working on include The Apex Program that helps launch blind people into cyber security careers.

[39:50] The ultimate goal is to have the same outcomes for people with disabilities as the general population has.

Resources:

Dr. Kirk Adams

Dr. Kirk Adams - LinkedIn

Dr. Kirk Adams - YouTube

The APEX Program

Designing for the Edge: Rethinking Inclusion in a Digital World with Dr. Jutta Treviranus

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 12:38:33 +0000

This month we are honoring the history, achievements, culture, and ongoing advocacy of people with disabilities. This is our third episode celebrating Disability Pride Month. Today, we're privileged to speak with Dr. Jutta Treviranus, a true pioneer in inclusive design. As the director of the Inclusive Design Research Centre (IDRC) at OCAD University in Toronto, Dr. Treviranus has been instrumental in shaping global accessibility laws and influencing the tech standards that major companies use.

She has been constantly pushing the limits of what genuinely inclusive digital environments can be. Among her many achievements, she's been honored with the prestigious AI for Good - DEI AI Leader of the Year Award from Women in AI. Her entire approach is built on advocating for those whose experiences don't fit the "average" mold.

In this episode, you'll learn about her "human starburst" metaphor and how it's changing design philosophy, why focusing on diversity at the edges of a system actually makes those systems more resilient and adaptable and what it really takes to confront bias in the age of AI. Dr. Treviranus shares powerful stories from the trenches, showing how inclusive design is a powerful driver for innovation that ultimately benefits us all.

In This Episode:

[02:22] Inclusive Design or the Canadian School of Inclusive Design is focused on an understanding that diversity is our greatest asset and inclusion is our greatest challenge.

[03:28] The "human starburst" is a growing data set of what people need to thrive.

[04:52] In the middle there's a cluster of 80% of the needs of all the population, the remaining 20% of the needs are distributed from that. The needs in the middle are more similar the further apart ones are different.

[06:08] Most products designed are for the 80%.

[07:22] The unexplored terrain leaves room for innovation.

[08:01] The Canadian school starts at the edge and designs for those where things aren't working. It creates an adaptive environment.

[09:17] Why inclusive design is critical in our digital age. We are replicating the same pattern instead of transforming. If we design our systems for people that are struggling, we will create things that work for us.

[10:52] The inclusive masters program launched at OCAD University back in 2010. They wanted to ensure it meant the largest range of needs.

[13:08] What Jutta feels are her significant contributions to inclusive design.

[13:30] She's proud of the students who take this mindset and expand it and the organic growth of a new way of looking at things.

[16:17] We learn about IDRC's We Count project. By the time chat GPT came out AI was already affecting major critical decisions in everyone's life.

[17:27] If we continue this pattern we'll do quite a bit of harm to ourselves and outliers. Such as AI hiring where there's a pattern for the optimal employee. This can amplify discrimination already present and lead to monocultures.

[19:29] It's a statistical reasoning machine with no guidance and nothing filtered out. Jutta is trying to address the needs of people who are vulnerable and most harmed by these systems.

[21:31] There's an uptick in collateral damage to people who aren't like the average, including iatrogenic death and illness.

[23:01] We Count is trying to invert the algorithm and look for different perspectives.

[25:48] We Count has been in existence since 2016.

[28:07] The importance of engaging the intended beneficiaries and the people who have the most difficulty with whatever you're designing.

[29:40] What tech transfer students should know about innovation and inclusion to ensure innovations are accessible and beneficial to the widest audience.

[31:13] Engaging more with the community will help embed inclusive design into the tech transfer process.

[33:00] One of the biggest misconceptions is that inclusive design costs more.

[37:01] Jutta shares advice for championing inclusion in our work. Look for the edges of the human starburst.

Resources:

Inclusive Design Research Centre OCAD University

Jutta Treviranus - OCAD University

Jutta Treviranus - LinkedIn

We Count: IDRC's Inclusive Artificial Intelligence (AI) Initiatives

The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower: A Global Symbol of Inclusion with Paul White

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 07:00:58 +0000

In honor of Disability Pride Month, I'd like to talk about a simple image that's quietly making a big difference around the globe. You might've seen it, a sunflower printed on a lanyard or pinned to someone's jacket, but maybe you weren't exactly sure what it meant. Well, that little sunflower is a lifeline, a subtle sign helping millions of people with invisible disabilities feel less alone, better understood, and genuinely welcome.

Paul White, who’s joining me today, is the CEO and co-founder of Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. Back in 2016, Paul set out to change how we see disability, not just the ones that are obvious, but the ones you can't always see at first glance. Under his guidance, the Sunflower initiative has reached more than 40,000 locations in 53 countries, giving people space to simply exist without constantly needing to explain or justify themselves.

In our chat today, Paul opens up about how the Sunflower started as a small airport project and grew into a worldwide movement, and he shares why places like universities and tech transfer offices have such an important role in creating environments where everyone truly feels they belong.

In This Episode:

[02:15] The Hidden Disability Sunflower was created in 2016. It was first used at the Gatwick Airport to help identify people with non-visible disabilities.

[04:07] The sunflower was used because they wanted to create a symbol around positivity, happiness, strength, and confidence.

[05:08] Disability is about barriers, and the sunflower is about what you can do.

[06:23] A hidden disability is any disability that isn't visible. It can range from hearing loss to any type of chronic condition. Environments such as airports can also make people feel disabled.

[09:46] Wearing the sunflower enabled a man with dementia to ride the bus and go to the sports club without his wife.

[10:40] The sunflower program also offers training and advocates for rights within the community.

[14:24] Sunflower has a membership platform, and the first thing you'll see is the training. There are also testimonials about how the sunflower has impacted people.

[15:35] The hidden disability sunflower means that a wearer has a non-visible disability. You don't need to know or ask what that person's condition is, just give extra time, patience and understanding.

[18:43] One in seven people have some form of disability. It should be up to an organization to allow a space for this person to access this area.

[22:27] Universities are also using the sunflower. It helps spark the conversation and normalize disability.

[23:42] The Scouts have also just introduced their first sunflower badge.

[25:12] How the sunflower is being used as a symbol to help create independence in the Middle East. They have Global Partners all across the globe.

[28:28] Paul's message would be for businesses and organizations to create an environment where people feel comfortable disclosing that they may have a non-visible disability.

[29:45] Organizations could have newsletters, representation, or employ more disabled people.

Resources:

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower - Paul White

Paul White - LinkedIn

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower - Instagram

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower - Facebook

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower - X

The Power Behind Evolutionary Change Featuring Dr. Geerat Vermeij

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 07:00:57 +0000

Have you ever tried to picture the natural world without relying on sight? It’s a wild thought, but for Dr. Geerat J. Vermeij, it’s just how he experiences life. Blind since the age of three, Dr. Vermeij built an extraordinary career as an evolutionary biologist. He’s a MacArthur “Genius” Fellow, a celebrated author, and Professor Emeritus of Earth and Planetary Sciences at UC Davis.

In our conversation, Dr. Vermeij walks us through the hidden stories that mollusk shells can tell us about evolution. Think underwater battles, survival strategies, and long-forgotten extinction events. He also introduces a powerful idea (no pun intended): that it’s not just energy that drives evolution, it's power. He digs into this more deeply in his book The Evolution of Power, which turns traditional theories on their head in the best possible way.

But science is just part of the story. Dr. Vermeij also talks about what it’s been like to build a life in academia without sight including challenges, but also the deep gratitude he has for the mentors and collaborators who helped him thrive. He doesn’t sugarcoat it, but there’s something incredibly moving about the way he frames inclusion not as charity, but as essential to discovery.

This episode kicks off our special series for Disability Pride Month, where we spotlight brilliant thinkers who expand how we see the world and what’s possible within it. Dr. Vermeij’s life reminds us that resilience, curiosity, and community can break barriers and reshape the story of science itself.

In This Episode:

[02:32] Dr. Vermeij talks about some of the things that he is the most proud of including his early insights including that shells are defenses against predators.

[03:12] Shells get damaged but not necessarily lethally damaged. Most of his work has been a variation of this theme.

[04:04] These adaptations are relatively recent in geological time. This means that the evolution between predator and prey has experienced spectacular adaptations.

[05:16] He spent a lot of time studying in Guam, Panama, and Jamaica. Also New Guinea, Australia, and many more Islands. Every biologist should visit the tropics.

[07:08] His main finding was to connect geological history with modern adaptation. He's also expanded to other organisms besides mollusks.

[08:17] He's working on another book about what it's like to be a scientist. He and a colleague are also working on the evolution of semi-aquatic mammals.

[09:39] Trying to understand evolutionary transitions and taking fossils into account is part of a larger project.

[10:17] We should be diverse in the ways that we approach problems.

[11:01] Unanswered questions in biology today including questions about natural selection.

[12:40] What are the effects of climate change? A place to look are the changes in the effects of the geological records.

[13:15] Dr. Vermeij talks about his book, The Evolution of Power. Energy doesn't do anything for you unless you use it.

[16:39] How collecting shells as a boy shaped his love for the sciences. He's always had an interest in nature and the natural sciences.

[20:13] We learn about his experience being a blind scientist. According to Dr. Vermeij, he has faced relatively few barriers. He had highly supportive potential mentors.

[22:38] He's adapted well to his work, because he's had extremely amazing and helpful assistants.

[24:03] All of his role models have been sighted, and have gone out of their way to help someone who was really interested in their work.

[27:15] He's always had a successful career from the beginning.

[28:32] Advice includes really liking what you're doing and working very hard. Have a strong curiosity about the world and the sense of what is important and what is not important.

[29:39] For blind people, having readers can get you through materials so much faster than the computer. This is also how Dr. Vermeij met his wife.

[31:56] He's had a long time view that we should pay less attention to people's identities and more to what they can actually do.

[33:42] He's the most proud of his journey, and how he recognized something interesting and pursued knowledge. He's all about asking scientific questions.

Resources:

Dr. Geerat J. Vermeij - UC Davis

The Evolution of Power: A New Understanding of the History of Life

MacArthur Fellows

Doug Moe on WARF, Warfarin, and the Power of University Research

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 07:00:25 +0000

What if one of the most important medical breakthroughs of the 20th century began with a dead cow and a desperate young farmer? That’s exactly what happened in 1933, when 21-year-old Ed Carlson arrived in Madison, Wisconsin, carrying a bucket of blood and a mystery that would eventually lead to the discovery of warfarin. This unlikely starting point sparked years of relentless research by biochemist Karl Paul Link and his team, fueled by scientific curiosity, institutional support, and an unshakable belief in the power of perseverance.

As we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation (WARF), we’re shining a light on the remarkable intersection of science, history, and Wisconsin legacy that made this discovery possible. Our guest is acclaimed journalist and author Doug Moe, whose storytelling career spans four decades and includes thousands of columns and multiple award-winning biographies. His latest work, Saving Hearts and Killing Rats: Karl Paul Link and the Discovery of Warfarin, brings this fascinating journey to life and was recently honored as the “Wisconsin Book of the Month” by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

In our conversation, Doug shares how he was first approached to tell this story, why it took him years to finally dive in, and what he uncovered in Link’s letters, archives, and personal history. We’ll hear about the personalities, the persistence, and the politics that surrounded the development of warfarin and explore why the impact of WARF and university-driven innovation still resonates so powerfully a hundred years later.

In This Episode:

[01:59] Tom Link, the son of Carl Paul Link, brought Doug a stack of articles and papers about his dad. This was a decade ago.

[03:24] Doug knew Carl Paul Link was somebody who needed a biography written. This is the perfect time to highlight innovation and university research and tech transfer.

[04:40] Link died in 1978, but the University of Wisconsin had an amazing archive of his work. Link was an avid letter writer. He would even put the time of his correspondence on his letters and it was often 2:30 in the morning.

[06:09] The incoming correspondence was also a treasure trove.

[07:24] Doug walks us through the story of the origin of warfarin, beginning with a dead cow and a bucket of blood.

[09:02] There was a connection between sweet clover hay and cow's dying because their blood couldn't clot.

[10:15] Scientists spent six years trying to figure out why this was. They eventually discovered a hemorrhagic agent that they were able to reproduce synthetically.

[11:27] They faced many hurdles including how long it took to have success. Perseverance is at the top of the success list.

[13:10] People doubted Link's story, but Ed Carlson was real.

[15:14] Warfarin is an anticoagulant, but it can also be used as a rat poison.

[17:10] How warfarin got its name.

[19:06] The tipping point for warfarin becoming commonly accepted was when President Eisenhower had a heart attack in 1955.

[20:34] Link had a big personality. He was likely manic depressive or bipolar. He was a complex individual. He was also a fancy dresser.

[22:52] Link was also into activism on campus.

[25:00] He also had controversies.

[28:44] We learn about Link's blowout with Harry Steenbock.

[29:25] WARF's involvement in warfarin becoming available to the public. WARF helped with the patent and donated money to the University of Wisconsin.

[31:37] WARF's 100th anniversary, and the power of university tech transfer and public research foundations.

[32:29] Doug is glad that his book highlights the importance of innovation and tech transfer.

[34:29] What Doug would like readers to take from the book.

Resources:

Saving Hearts and Killing Rats: Karl Paul Link and the Discovery of Warfarin

Doug Moe

Doug Moe - LinkedIn

Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation:WARF

Karl Paul Link

Green by Design: Integrating Sustainability into Innovation Strategy with Josh Dorfman

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 07:00:00 +0000

What happens when climate innovation isn’t just a buzzword but a blueprint for real change? In this episode, we explore how climate-focused technologies are being developed, commercialized, and scaled in ways that go far beyond traditional models.

My guest, Josh Dorfman, brings a rare mix of experience in both business and policy, with a track record of building ventures that reduce emissions while delivering everyday value. Josh is the co-founder and CEO of Plantd, a company creating carbon-negative building materials that was recently named one of the world’s most innovative by Fast Company.

He also launched The Lazy Environmentalist, a media brand that made sustainability more accessible, and now runs Supercool, a platform spotlighting climate tech with real-world impact. With past work ranging from startups to established brands like Brita, Josh offers a grounded, actionable look at how innovation, sustainability, and commercialization intersect and what that means for tech transfer offices and startups who want to make a difference.

In This Episode:

[02:17] Thinking about climate goes back to being an English teacher in China in the 1990s. He saw the future of a billion cars in China and never shook the thought.

[04:36] He was involved in tech in the States, but wanted to do something about climate. He started a sustainable furniture company in 2004. This eventually led to where he is now.

[05:12] Plantd is working on carbon negative construction materials made out of grass and resin.

[06:23] They talked to green builders, but the scale wasn't there. They decided to reach out to the largest builders in the market.

[07:32] They opened a path to go to market with D.R. Horton, one of the biggest builders in the country.

[10:01] First steps for building sustainability into your tech transfer strategy include being integrated in the tech ecosystem that many cities are building around the country.

[11:07] Building connectivity and getting integrated in the ecosystem is paramount.

[12:05] Sustainability is built into the product. Go fast but don't over commit to the wrong path.

[13:42] Supercool focuses on technologies that reduce emissions and improve everyday life.

[14:09] Technologies include WasteLess, a food waste prevention company. Another one includes Upway which is an infrastructure for getting pre-owned bikes. It creates a built-in market for e bikes.

[18:06] When large brands commit, they're really committed.

[19:40] Working with Brita helped eliminate some disposable water bottles.

[20:46] How policy shapes the space between innovation and government.

[23:05] The global march towards the low carbon future is inevitable.

[24:20] This is a huge time for cultivating environmentally friendly technology and entrepreneurship.

[26:16] Advice includes lean into sustainability strategically just like bringing any other product to market.

[27:50] Focus on the outcomes and the results for the business that your product will enable. Use sustainability as a differentiator.

[28:26] Josh is excited about the concept of urban mining.

[29:11] In the west, we have all the stuff that contains all these materials.

[31:31] Focus on solutions.

[32:44] Josh shares his hope for the future. Sustainability is an opportunity for all ages.

Resources:

Plantd

Josh Dorman - LinkedIn

Supercool

Lazy Environmentalist

WasteLess Solutions

Upway

Transforming Tech Transfer with AI-Driven Insight with Steven Lehmann and Ashish Uppala

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 07:00:00 +0000

What if universities had a smarter way to surface the innovation already happening across their campuses? In this episode, I’m joined by Steven Lehmann, Managing Director of Stargaze at Portal Innovations, and Ashish Uppala, Head of Engineering and Product for Stargaze.

Steven brings over a decade of experience in venture building and university innovation ecosystems, including leading the University of Chicago’s $20 million pre-seed fund and authoring the Innovation Ecology Substack. Ashish, a former CTO of scite.ai and an expert in AI and machine learning, combines deep technical knowledge with a passion for mapping biotech innovation.

Together, they share how Stargaze is helping universities navigate today’s funding challenges by identifying hidden opportunities in their research ecosystems. From integrating complex data sources to predicting commercialization potential, Stargaze is transforming how institutions connect innovation with impact.

In This Episode:

[01:50] Portal has been around for about 5 years. The goal has been to build infrastructure that's necessary to commercialize innovation in areas that are over-scienced but underfunded or don't have the resources to take the innovations to market.

[02:51] They've been building the infrastructure to get academic ideas for a Series A investment.

[03:06] They needed to find the scientist and the ideas to plug into their infrastructure. Stargaze is like Google Maps for innovation.

[04:12] Stargaze builds rich maps of scientific ecosystems. They use AI, network science, and reason models.

[06:33] Stargaze helps keep track of all the possibilities and move from reactive to proactive.

[08:24] They are equipping innovators and scouts with understanding the commercial potential of research.

[09:07] They can build a picture to understand the potential landscape.

[11:41] We talk about who's working on the project.

[13:18] The core of Stargaze is organizing information around innovation so that they can feed it into different matching and scoring algorithms.

[15:17] Because of the information they have, they find investors that are interested in whatever the researcher may be working on.

[16:55] How Innovation biomarkers can be helpful in an emerging system.

[18:47] Finding the signals of who can work together in a meaningful way toward a particular problem.

[21:12] We talk about privacy and security. Data and license is scoped to that person or project.

[25:26] The recent rate of innovation has been crazy.

[27:54] Thinking about synergies and risk to the core business.

[29:18] How Tech Transfer professionals can implement Stargaze by signing up to the Stargaze network.

[31:48] It's very user friendly.

Resources:

Steve Lehmann - Portal Innovations

Steven Lehmann - LinkedIn

Ashish Uppala

Ashish Uppala - Portal Innovations

Ashish Uppala - LinkedIn

Stargaze Network

OpenAlex

Navigating Software, AI, and Open Source in Tech Transfer: A Conversation with Dan Dardani

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 07:00:00 +0000

The world of software innovation is evolving faster than ever, and Tech Transfer professionals are being asked to make critical decisions around open source, copyright, patents, and AI. In this episode, we take a deep dive into this complex landscape with Dan Dardani, Director of Physical Sciences and Digital Innovations Licensing and Corporate Alliances at Duke University. Dan brings over two decades of experience to the conversation, including nearly 20 years at MIT and his long standing leadership in AUTM’s Software Course Committee.

Dan shares his practical insights into how Tech Transfer offices can navigate the tricky decision between copyright and patenting software, how to handle open-source licensing in research environments, and what to consider when commercializing digital tools. He also offers guidance on machine learning and artificial intelligence, addressing real-world questions around IP ownership, data licensing, and the legal gray areas created by emerging technologies.

Whether you’re just starting to build policies for software disclosures and AI-related inventions, or you’re looking to refine your office’s strategy, Dan’s perspective is both grounded and forward-thinking. His advice, drawn from decades of hands-on experience, will help you understand not just what’s changing in the digital IP world, but how to keep up and lead through it.

In This Episode:

[01:57] Patents and copyrights aren't mutually exclusive. They protect different aspects of the software. Software comes with copyright right out of the box.

[02:44] Patents are more difficult and more expensive to obtain. Courts have recently made it more difficult, but it still can be done.

[03:23] When deciding between copyright or patent, ask what the innovation is. Is it a transformative leap?

[04:57] You need to tell a compelling story and emphasize the transformative ability of your software.

[05:53] The last thing to consider is if there's a commercialization strategy.

[06:48] Examples of software innovations that have met the criteria for patentability. Diamond v. Diehr in the 1980s. Transformative is a key concept in IP thinking.

[08:03] We have to be more careful with applying for algorithms now.

[09:11] Workhorse apps and code may be more suited for copyright protection than patents.

[10:22] Copyright is the first line measure for protecting innovation.

[10:46] Open-source is vital to software innovation. Risks dealing with open source innovations include third-party code issues, sponsorship issues and open source compliance issues.

[11:45] It's important to not commit copyright infringement by releasing someone else's code.

[13:34] Balancing a researcher's desire to use open source licenses and the universities need to protect IP and pursue commercialization. Education and early communication.

[15:49] There are multiple ways to license, including dual licensing strategies.

[16:14] An example of FFTW using a hybrid licensing model.

[18:13] Releasing code as part of the peer review process.

[21:55] Focusing on machine learning and AI.

[22:07] Addressing IP ownership when working with these technologies. Understanding the difference between being a data producer and a data user.

[23:42] It's crucial to understand the layers and document the data sources.

[24:24] Navigating inventorship when AI is involved. A human needs to be named the inventor.

[26:01] There's going to be an evolution of the laws regarding patents and AI. The laws are going to need to adapt to address inventorship and ownership.

[28:26] Advice for TTOs to mitigate risk that might infringe on existing IP. It gets complicated, and the best advice is to start with a clean house.

[31:13] Distinguishing between the types of data used for licensing.

[33:49] Advice for tech transfer offices that are just beginning to think about these issues and develop policies around proper software hygiene and AI related inventions.

Resources:

Daniel Dardani - Duke University

Daniel Dardani - LinkedIn

Innovation Without Borders: Insights from the ISTA Forum 2024

Diamond v. Diehr

FFTW

Unlocking Innovation with AI-Powered IP Tools featuring Dr. Marcia Chang

Wed, 28 May 2025 07:00:00 +0000

AI is no longer just a concept in IP. It’s part of how teams work, make decisions and create value. In this episode I talk to Dr. Marcia Chang, VP of IP Operations and Client Success at Tradespace. Dr. Chang has over 20 years of experience in IP strategy, operations and commercialization and has a unique blend of engineering and legal expertise.

She has a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Cornell University and a J.D. from Santa Clara University she’s held leadership roles at companies like Applied Materials, Metawave Corporation and Hewlett Packard Enterprise. She was also recognized as one of the Top 50 Women Leaders in Tech Law. At Tradespace she’s now at the forefront of using AI driven approaches to transform how IP is managed and commercialized.

Dr. Chang explains how Tradespace is helping universities and companies streamline the entire IP lifecycle. By using AI to simplify invention disclosures, evaluate technical content and identify commercial opportunities the platform gives IP teams clearer insights and greater strategic impact. For Tech Transfer offices with limited resources and growing demands Tradespace is a practical way to prioritise what matters and move more technologies to real-world application.

We discuss adapting to new technology with a curiosity and willingness to learn. Along with practical tips for building smarter, more connected systems. Dr. Chang also reflects on how AI went from being a tool she was sceptical of to one she now advocates for.

In This Episode:

[01:41] Dr. Chang gives us an overview of Tradespace. Its mission is to empower IP teams to focus on strategy and unlock the value of their portfolios.

[02:29] The name Tradespace comes from mapping choices onto a multi-dimensional trade space. Teams can weigh alternatives, trade-offs, and find the optimal path.

[03:15] It's their goal to help teams manage IP better and even make IP better.

[04:02] Tactically Tradespace can help IP teams translate technical concepts in the business concepts. Strategically they focus on communicating more value.

[05:54] They help teams sift through the technical information in a short amount of time.

[06:08] Key tools that Tradespace offers. They have tools that help with invention disclosure and use AI to make the submission process easier.

[08:34] They have the ability to streamline the entire IP process in a single end-to-end platform.

[09:27] The data is also very secure.

[10:31] How they help bring innovations to market. They provide AI-assisted commercialization with automatic matching of potential partners along with generating text summaries.

[11:57] They've helped customers identify dormant IP assets and uncovered use cases that hadn't been thought of before.

[14:22] We talk about the specific ways that AI is reshaping the field of IP management. This includes better portfolio management and faster decision making.

[18:22] Getting comfortable with AI begins with education.

[20:55] Challenges in tech transfer today include budget restraints and having to do more with less. AI tools can help with the entire process making things faster, cheaper, and better.

[23:03] They've seen backlogs cleared. It's like adding a member to your team.

[23:57] Potential trends include more transformative technologies unlocking innovation.

[26:03] Dr. Chang talks about her inspiration and how she always took the road less traveled.

[29:56] Valuable lessons include always being humble.

[32:54] Tradespace has unlocked over $100 million of potential revenue for clients. They hope to scale as AI evolves.

[34:56] AI is evolving to become a partner in our work.

Resources:

Tradespace

Dr. Marcia Chang - LinkedIn

Tomorrow's Lawyers: An Introduction to your Future

Dividing the Equity Pie: Biotech Startup Realities with Dr. Jahanara Ali

Wed, 21 May 2025 07:00:00 +0000

When you start a biotech company, equity isn't just a line on a spreadsheet. It can literally determine who gets to keep pursuing their dream and who has to step aside. In this episode, we're digging into equity distribution, an aspect of launching a startup that's easy to overlook but critically important. It shapes whose ideas ultimately make it from the lab bench to the real world.

My guest today is Dr. Jahanara Ali, founder of Longitude Ventures Consulting. Dr. Ali has spent years working with universities, biotech startups, and investors, helping them transform research into successful businesses. Her recent three-part series, "Dividing the Equity Pie," explores how equity was distributed among founders and investors in biotech companies that went public from 2021 to 2023, and her insights reveal some fascinating trends.

We'll unpack those insights, explore the differences between companies launched by investors versus those started by founders, and talk honestly about the persistent gender gaps in equity stakes. Whether you're a researcher wondering how equity works, a tech transfer specialist representing inventors, or an entrepreneur setting up your own startup, you'll leave this conversation with practical tips and a clearer understanding of how to manage equity fairly and effectively.

In This Episode:

[02:08] We learn about how Dr Ali ended up in biotech and venture consulting. She was a scientist but she knew she wanted to move into the business side.

[03:14] She began working in Tech Transfer and joined an early stage biotech startup to learn about the business side.

[04:02] Through her various experiences she became an expert in equity, licensing, and early stage development.

[05:30] She dove deeper and deeper into how to divide equity for biotech companies.

[06:02] She discovered that equity was all over the place for academic founders.

[07:34] Academic founders usually do better with their equity shares if they negotiate for themselves.

[08:52] She discovered that founders who developed foundational IP or an inventor who took an operational role usually end up with more equity than inventors who stay in academia.

[09:27] It's important to educate faculty members and licensing offices on this data.

[11:12] Advice for academic inventors includes to partner with tech licensing offices but negotiate the equity component separately.

[12:05] Key differences between investor-launched and entrepreneur-launched biotech companies.

[13:43] Founding investors retained about 30% of equity at IPL. Founding entrepreneurs retained about 14% of equity.

[15:13] Companies launched by VCs raised over $100 million. This was a lot more than the entrepreneur launched companies.

[16:08] Lessons include understanding how difficult it is to succeed. Have experienced people around you who have done it before.

[17:18] Out of 243 founders, only about 51% were on the cap table at IPO. The other 50% just drops off for whatever reason.

[18:47] If you're going to raise money, dilution will happen.

[19:50] Gender disparities among founders.

[20:15] About 85% of the founders were male. Women were 10%. Investors started 5% of the companies.

[21:51] Young women should include male mentors in their professional network.

[23:19] There are Angel networks that do invest in women entrepreneurs.

[24:18] There is an opportunity to standardize academic equity.

[25:03] Key insights for academic inventors.

Resources:

Dr. Jahanara Ali - LinkedIn

Longitude Ventures Consulting - LinkedIn

Helping Universities Navigate Europe’s New Patent Landscape with Dr. Rose Hughes

Wed, 14 May 2025 07:00:00 +0000

When cutting‑edge science collides with the realities of commercialization, tech transfer stops being paperwork and starts shaping the future of innovation. That intersection is exactly where European patent attorney and IPKat writer Rose Hughes has built her career, and today she’s here to break down what the latest headline decisions mean for anyone navigating patents on this side of the Atlantic.

Dr. Hughes traces her journey from a PhD in infection‑immunity at University College London to training with Marks & Clerk, six years in‑house at AstraZeneca’s Cambridge R&D hub, and now a role at boutique firm Evolve, all while sharpening her public voice through IPKat’s mentored blogging model. In our conversation, Dr. Hughes unpacks the Enlarged Board’s looming opinion on reading claims in light of the description and why a Philip Morris case shows the hidden danger of boiler‑plate definitions.

She explains G 2/21’s guidance on post‑field data using a polymorph dispute where vague promises of stability fell short, and she highlights how the UPC’s early Abbott v Sibio ruling suggests Europe’s new patent court is echoing EPO practice on functional language and added‑matter tests. We also dig into an Amgen peptide‑manufacturing opposition that weighs patent protection against trade secrets, and a recent Board decision where an AI‑driven cell‑analysis method collapsed for lack of technical character and data support.

Dr. Hughes offers practical takeaways for university Tech‑Transfer offices from timing filings to fast‑moving science and preparing for AI tools that may automate drudge work but not strategic thinking. Along with candid advice for newcomers on following the science you love and using AI to focus on high‑value patent strategy.

In This Episode:

[05:16]  Dr. Hughes explains how launching the IPKat blog let her break down complex patent cases, deepen her own understanding, and build a go‑to resource for the European IP community.

[08:22] We learn about some interesting cases that Dr Hughes has worked on recently.

[09:33] The best IP is going to be grounded in the most exciting and innovative science.

[10:06] We discuss some Enlarged Board of Appeals decisions and opinions about descriptions including the Philip Morris tobacco case.

[13:05] Her advice is to be aware of boilerplate definitions. Also watch out for AI definitions.

[15:15]  A deep dive into the Polymorph Patents ruling.

[16:18] The Board of Appeal applying G2/21 said that you can use post-published data, but you can't just base it on sweeping statements in your application. Connect your features with how they are solving a problem.

[17:43 ] Insights on the UPC’s Abbott  decision.The new court is likely to follow EPO precedent on added‑matter and claim interpretation.

[20:27]  Dr. Hughes talks about an Amgen peptide manufacturing‑method case.

[23:47]  A recent Board ruling on AI‑enabled cell‑therapy which uses AI to analyze the cell. (T 0660/22, Cell analysis/NIKON)

[26:27]  There will be an increased use of AI tools and there will be challenges with how this is handled.

[00:29:08] How tech transfer offices should approach European patent practice. There are significant differences between the two.

[30:19]  The gap in antibody claim scope between the US and Europe is widening.

[32:07] Predictions for trends and changes that could impact European patent practice and tech transfer in the next few years.

[34:16] Advice for new patent attorneys and agents that are entering the field. Focus on the science that you are interested in. Gain as many different experiences as you can.

[35:47] AI isn't going to take our jobs away; there will still be a role for patent attorneys. It will automate the tedious processes.

Resources:

Dr. Rose Hughes - Blogger

Rose Hughes - LinkedIn

Evolve Pharmaceutical IP

The IPKat

CRISPR Breakthroughs in Tuberculosis and Tech Transfer with Dr. Valwynne Faulkner

Wed, 07 May 2025 07:00:00 +0000

This episode will illustrate how scientific research and tech commercialization can create a powerful impact. I'm excited to have Dr. Valwynne Faulkner on the show today. She is a postdoctoral researcher at the Francis Crick Institute and a LifeArc Knowledge Transfer Innovations Fellow. Her fascinating work spans cutting-edge molecular biology research and technology transfer.

Val walked me through the work her team is doing with CRISPR to expose new ways of tackling tuberculosis, even the stubborn drug‑resistant strains. She also opened up about how the LifeArc fellowship is pulling her deeper into tech transfer, what she is learning about patents and partnerships, and why she thinks regulators need a seat at the table from day one.

Whether you spend your days at the bench or in an office turning ideas into products, Val’s story shows how a curious mind and a collaborative spirit can move discoveries out of the lab and into the world.

In This Episode:

[01:12] We learn about Dr. Faulkner's current research at the Francis Crick Institute studying mycobacterium tuberculosis.

[01:50] At the systems chemical biology lab they are developing CRISPR-based molecular tools that we can use to precisely control and silence genes.

[02:13] This helps them understand the functional roles of genes in TB and response to antimicrobial drugs.

[03:05] The hope is that the research will uncover new drug targets and help combat antimicrobial drug resistance.

[03:46] Dr. Faulkner talks about the LifeArc Knowledge Transfer Innovations Fellowship. It helps teach scientists how to transition into careers within tech transfer. They get formal training and all aspects.

[05:14] She learned about the program by chance. LifeArc was at the Francis Crick for a career event.

[06:15] Her diverse experience across academia, industry and regulatory labs has given her a holistic perspective on research translation.

[07:38] AUTM is a partner with the fellowship and gives them access to all of the online tools and learning centers. Along with excellent mentors and experienced professionals.

[08:40] Insights gained from the AUTM 50th event. It's amazing how many stakeholders are involved.

[09:37] Bridging the gap between scientific research and commercialization. The AUTM Annual meeting has been crucial in facilitating knowledge exchange and networking.

[10:49] A key challenge is navigating the complicated IP landscape.

[11:57] Dr. Faulkner is excited about advancements in antimicrobial drug discovery.

[13:04] Advice includes reaching out and asking questions and seeking things like fellowships. Be open to interdisciplinary collaborations.

[13:53] The future of research innovation will be shaped by strong academic and commercial partnerships.

Resources:

Dr. Valwynne Faulkner - Francis Crick Institute

LifeArc

The Future of Tech Transfer: Navigating Chaotic Innovation with Nick Webb

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Innovation isn’t just evolving—it’s accelerating, fragmenting, and reshaping everything in its path. In this episode, we dive into what that means for the world of technology transfer, where traditional systems are being pushed to adapt or risk falling behind. If you’ve ever wondered how Tech Transfer Offices can keep up with the chaos of rapid innovation, this conversation will give you both clarity and direction.

Our guest is Nick Webb, a bestselling author, futurist, and innovation strategist who has worked with some of the world’s top brands and holds more than 40 patents. He’s written influential books like The Innovation Mandate and What Customers Crave and leads consulting work that helps organizations future-proof their approach to innovation. In this episode, he brings that expertise to the challenges and opportunities facing universities and research institutions today.

Nick talks about how TTOs can streamline operations, embrace smart automation, and build internal communication strategies that actually work. He shares how commercialization can be both profitable and socially impactful, how to better engage inventors in the process, and why building strong industry partnerships is no longer optional. It’s a fast-paced, eye-opening discussion for anyone working at the intersection of research and real-world impact.

In This Episode:

[01:44] His book, Chaotic Change was a look back at his 44 years in the innovation space. Things we're slow and small. When the internet came out everything was connected and digitized. Things became fast and big.

[02:37] TTOs need to develop best practices and technologies to handle the amount and volume of a super complicated landscape.

[03:02] With the AI shift and the next wave of chaos we'll see rapid adoption of new best practices, technologies, and systems.

[03:41] One of the biggest inefficiencies is bureaucracy.

[04:24] The importance of communicating to leaders and selling value as TTOs. The technology to accelerate is also important.

[05:09] Commercialization is the ultimate force of impact.

[06:06] Nick runs an AI lab and talks about the impact of AI Tech Transfer. We also need to keep our real intelligence in the process.

[08:30] Nick talks about protecting IP for commercial success. Great strategic partners are a big help.

[09:53] This would be a good time to reevaluate policies to see if it's a document that will increase technology licensing.

[10:49] The importance of internal communication strategies for TTO offices.

[11:34] Innovation Superstar Bootcamp has a master's and a startup program. It's about making the complexity of innovation management fun and understandable.

[14:02] Striking the right balance between licensing startups and open Innovation models.

[15:43] Collaborations and making the best partnerships work.

[18:02] Practical steps to optimize operations without sacrificing impact. It starts with having a strategic plan.

[19:26] Getting researchers interested in the commercialization process and thinking beyond their labs.

[20:52] Lessons from Innovation Mandate that can be applied to TTOs to modernize their operations.

[21:43] Taking a triage approach towards everything.

[22:35] Don't waste time on technologies that don't stand a chance. Fast track methodologies. Sell your value proposition to get permission to move.

[24:05] Monetizing non-traditional IP assets.

[25:48] Trends to pay attention to. The experience ecosystem, the creation of AI artifacts, and business model innovations.

[27:52] The Importance of being able to sell your value.

[30:10] ESN an Enterprise Social Network.

[31:05] Predictions for the future include automation, being hyper technical, and hyper human.

Resources:

Nick Webb

Webb Logic

Nicholas Webb - LinkedIn

Nicholas J. Webb - Facebook

The Innovation Mandate

What Customers Crave

Other Books

LeaderLogic, LLC

Innovation Superstar Bootcamp

The Healthcare Cure

Turning Worms Into Medicine: Dr. Andrea Choe on Innovation, Impact, and Tech Transfer

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Could worms be the missing piece to treating allergies and autoimmune diseases? That’s the exciting idea that’s driving today’s guest, Dr. Andrea Choe, a scientist, doctor and biotech founder on a mission to change the way we think about human health.

Dr. Andrea Choe is the CEO and co-founder of Holoclara, a biotech company that’s changing how we treat allergies and autoimmune disorders. While working on her PhD at Caltech, Andrea discovered a unique pheromone language shared by roundworms which led to insights in evolutionary biology and immunology. Today her research is the foundation of Holoclara’s mission to help millions suffering from allergies and autoimmune disorders.

Today we’ll talk about how regions of the world where people live alongside worms have much lower rates of these conditions — and how Holoclara is working to tap into that evolutionary relationship in the form of safe, orally administered treatments. We’ll discuss the challenges of translating lab science into real world medicine, the regulatory hurdles of building a new class of drugs and why Andrea believes innovation should feel unconventional. And throughout it all she’s driven by one clear North Star: helping patients and families get relief.

In This Episode:

[01:52] Andrea shares how she made the roundworm discovery. Her thesis was on understanding the evolution of molecular

communication between worms. She ended up discovering the shared unique pheromone language.

[03:20] There were no allergies or autoimmune diseases before the 1900s.

[04:29] Holoclara reflects the idea of completeness. This is Andrea's driving philosophy in life.

[05:17] She believes that having a multidisciplinary approach to anything is always the best.

[06:23] We learn about some of the many challenges that Andrea and her company has gone through.

[09:43] They're trying to bring forward an entirely new class of medicine.

[13:06] We learn about Andrea's experience with tech transfer and collaboration between Caltech and industry.

[14:35] Approaching the regulatory path and listening to FDA guidance.

[17:14] We learn about the team at Holoclara from R&D to clinical development.

[18:25] The unconventional use of worms and innovation.

[20:33] The treatment possibilities are far reaching.

[21:06] Andrea shares how she's always motivated. She's really interested in figuring out how to change lives and get rid of chronic debilitating diseases.

Resources:

Holoclara

Andrea Choe - Holoclara

Andrea Choe - LinkedIn

STEM in Action: How Project Lead The Way Is Changing Lives

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 07:00:00 +0000

What if STEM education wasn’t just about formulas and lab reports—but about solving real problems, transforming lives, and reshaping entire communities?

In this episode, we’re talking about how hands-on, project-based STEM education is making that vision a reality through Project Lead The Way, a nonprofit that’s helping millions of students across the U.S. become tomorrow’s changemakers.

From building bionic arms to redesigning city infrastructure, PLTW students and educators are showing us what’s possible when curiosity meets opportunity.

We’re joined by four awesome guests:

Dr. David Dimmett is the President and CEO of Project Lead The Way. With a background in education leadership and a love of lifelong learning, David shares how PLTW is giving students not just technical knowledge but real-world skills in problem-solving, communication and ethics.

Dr. Albert Manero is a PLTW alumnus and co-founder of Limbitless Solutions, a company that designs and delivers expressive, low-cost bionic arms for kids. Albert talks about how his early exposure to engineering through PLTW led him to a career focused on social impact and innovation.

Jason Huber is a PLTW instructor at Woodstock High School in Illinois where he teaches multiple engineering courses and advises a thriving robotics club. Jason gives us a behind-the-scenes look at how STEM education is changing the classroom experience—and helping students realize they can be inventors of their own future.

Liam Hansen is a PLTW graduate and current mechanical engineering student at the University of Tennessee. Along with his classmates, Liam led a community-changing project to improve walkability in his hometown and won the first-ever PLTW Community Impact Award. He shares what it’s like to turn classroom learning into real-world action.

Together we talk about mentorship, project-based learning and the kind of education that doesn’t just prepare students for jobs—but prepares them for life.

In This Episode:

[03:12] Project Lead the Way is a 501(c)(3), we're a nonprofit started over 25 years ago by one teacher in one high school in upstate New York, now working with over two and a half million students all across the country. The goal is to help young people get excited about and prepare for great careers through project-based hands-on learning.

[04:10] The focus is primarily on engineering, biomedical science, and computer science.

[05:01] They work with companies and global leaders to ensure the curriculum prepares students for great careers and lives.

[06:21] David was a high school English teacher. He worked his way into school administration and then got involved in Project Lead the Way. He loved the power of bringing relevance to the classroom.

[07:50] It's so powerful to see students get excited about learning.

[09:03] Albert has taken his Project Lead the Way experience and built something extraordinary with Limbitless Solutions.

[09:58] Why Albert chose to focus on prosthetics.

[12:13] Students with engineering backgrounds and Project Lead the Way experience have early exposure to 3D design, 3D modeling, and critical thinking skills.

[13:03] How Project Lead The Way helps prepare students for a collaborative environment.

[14:00] Jason and his class won the Project Lead The Way inaugural community impact award.

[14:51] Jason talks about the Walkability Project and why it was a real eye-opener for the kids. The students dedicated a whole year working on this capstone project.

[17:58] They faced many challenges and had to figure out how to recover and what to do.

[18:26] It was also a challenge for the students to balance the demands of the project with their personal commitments.

[19:37] They had to investigate where the crosswalks and sidewalks were in the city and they made their own maps.

[20:09] The project also drew the attention of the International Design Shop.

[21:11] Jason was nervous during the presentation. He reminded the students that they were the experts in the room.

[23:04] The most rewarding part about teaching for Jason is the "aha" moments when he sees the lights go on for the kids.

[24:24] Liam shares his experience and how the Walkability Project became one of his top priorities.

[25:38] How projects like Project Lead The Way help students see a connection between their studies and real world applications. The students use real world technology. It's a hands-on project.

[27:36] Liam talks about the impact this program has had on his life. Now he's studying mechanical engineering at the University of Tennessee.

[29:04] Project Lead The Way helps take some of the mysteriousness out of things like engineering.

[30:37] How Project Lead The Way was able to make STEM more accessible and exciting for students. It makes learning fun and revolves around the process.

[32:03] Learning is the focus of growth. It's okay to fail.

[34:36] The teachers are working together to create a challenging and engaging experience for young people in their communities.

[35:46] Advice includes staying curious about how projects come together.

[36:10] Enjoy the unique hands-on aspect of the class.

[36:44] They focus on STEM, but there's also elements of art and design in the work.

[37:47] There's no shortage of challenges for students to address.

[38:07] Technology is changing so fast that education needs to stay on top of it.

[38:59] Liam wants STEM education to be at the forefront so other kids can have the experience he had.

Resources:

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Limbitless Solutions

David L. Dimmett - LinkedIn

Dr. Albert Manero - LinkedIn

Jason Huber - Woodstock High School team wins national PLTW Award

Liam Hanson - LinkedIn

AI, Diversity, and IP Policy: Navigating the Future with Former USPTO Director Kathi Vidal

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 07:00:00 +0000

I'm thrilled to welcome Kathi Vidal to the show today. Kathi has been at the forefront of IP policy, working to expand patent accessibility, and tackle some of innovation’s most pressing issues. As the former Undersecretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, Kathi has spearheaded significant changes that reshaped how America approaches innovation.

At the USPTO, she opened up patent accessibility by expanding the patent bar to include a broader and more diverse range of professionals. She also launched the Council for Inclusive Innovation and fundamentally transformed how the Patent Office interacts with inventors, making the system more approachable for everyone.

Now, as a partner at Winston & Strawn LLP, Kathi continues to influence intellectual property law and technology policy. With her deep background in electrical engineering, AI innovation, and leadership of IP practices at top law firms, she brings a unique and valuable perspective.

In today’s episode, Kathi and I discuss how Tech Transfer professionals can navigate shifts in policy, leverage recent changes in patent law, and position their institutions to succeed in an increasingly competitive IP landscape. She’s one of the most influential voices in innovation and the perfect guest to join us as we celebrate Women’s History Month.

In This Episode:

[02:06] We learn about Kathi's background and how she was only one of three women in her engineering class. She was also inventing in the AI space in the 1990s.

[03:42] She was an inventor and saw the struggles of inventors. She drew on her own experience and other people's broader experiences.

[05:34] She went into law to do the analytical work that she loved. It was all about the strategy and the technology for her.

[07:12] At the USPTO, she wanted to harness the potential of the US government to help innovators and entrepreneurs.

[08:17] At the law firm, she's working on some major AI projects with top AI engineers in the country.

[09:43] Over the last 4 years at the USPTO, they protected US innovation.

[10:34] It was a top priority to make universities and tech transfer offices more accessible.

[12:24] They changed the communication for inventors when applying for a US patent. They would welcome them to the ecosystem and let them know that they could use patent pending, along with resources and support for their journey.

[13:41] How tech transfer professionals can take advantage of changes such as expanding the patent bar to include more professionals from diverse backgrounds.

[14:49] Fake barriers were removed.

[15:57] The approach Kathi took in private practice helped with their efforts at the USPTO. She was always looking at the whole ecosystem and how to improve it and make it better.\

[19:09] She launched the Council for Inclusive Innovation, also known as CI2, to help address gaps in innovation participation. They created the first ever national inclusion strategy.

[22:33] The role of university Tech Transfer offices in supporting women and underrepresented inventors is about making IP relatable to everyone.

[23:42] IP is the key to dispersing ideas and getting them to market. It protects your ideas so you can get it out to the public and get investments.

[25:18] How tech transfer offices should be thinking about protecting and licensing AI inventions. Anything AI should be protected. There needs to be human contribution documented.

[28:25] What to watch out for in the IP landscape.

[30:57] Kathi is now here to help in a broader way. She is still thinking about policy and getting involved.

[32:15] Advice is to continue to have a voice in the government and think about all your lovers when it comes to strategy and working together.

[33:29] Current trends relate to what's going on in government right now. Changes in funding and how investments in AI are going to be spent. Kathi is taking a close look making sure everyone is collaborating together.

[35:33] We learn about what's next for Kathi.

Resources:

Kathi Vidal - Winston & Strawn LLP

Kathi Vidal - LinkedIn

Kathi Vidal - USPTO

Inventing Tomorrow: Unraveling the Impact of AI on IP with Kathi Vidal

Physics, Persistence, and the Nobel Prize: A Conversation with Dr. Anne L’Huillier

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 07:00:00 +0000

There aren’t many people in the world who can say they’ve changed the way we understand time itself, but today’s guest is one of them.

In this episode, I'm honored to welcome Dr. Anne L’Huillier, professor of atomic physics at Lund University and recipient of the 2023 Nobel Prize in Physics. She’s one of only five women in history to receive the Nobel in this category, and her groundbreaking work in attosecond physics is reshaping what’s possible in the study of electron dynamics.

But what makes Dr. L'Huillier truly remarkable isn’t just her scientific brilliance. It’s the way she leads with humility, dedication to teaching, and a deep passion for inspiring the next generation of scientists. When the Nobel committee called to deliver the news, she was in the middle of teaching a class, and she finished the lesson before calling them back.

In this conversation, we talk about the persistence it took to get where she is, what it means to be a woman in science today, and how her research is unlocking new frontiers in physics. Dr. L'Huillier is a trailblazer, a teacher, and a force of curiosity, and we’re so lucky to have her on the show.

In This Episode:

[01:02] An attosecond is a billionth of a billionth of a second. There are more attoseconds in a second than there are seconds in the age of the entire universe which is 13.8 billion years old.

[01:51] Dr. L'Huillier always wanted to be a scientist and follow in the footsteps of her father and grandfather. She had great teachers in atomic physics and quantum mechanics who kind of pushed her towards atomic physics and interactions between light and matter.

[03:09] She won the Nobel Prize for attosecond physics. She finished the class she was teaching before talking to the Royal Academy of Sciences when she was notified that she won.

[05:36] Teaching is a huge part of her work. She is now getting involved in more Nobel related activities.

[06:47] We talk about attracting more women to physics by getting rid of the idea and stigma that girls aren't interested in physics, engineering, or math.

[07:53] Students and young girls need to be encouraged to look at careers in science.

[08:22] She is working on using attosecond pulses and trying to use them to look at electron motion and electronic transition.

[09:20] They are researching quantum optics and using electrons as quantum objects and looking at complex systems like molecules, biomolecules, or condensed matter.

[10:22] We learn how Dr. L'Huillier had two other co-laureates who measured attosecond pulses.

[12:42] This work took 14 years. It's really important to be persistent, because research has ups and downs.

[13:59] We learn about what the future holds for Dr. L'Huillier. There may be a book on the horizon.

[15:31] We talk about decompressing, having fun, the joys of family, and playing tennis!

Resources:

Dr. Anne L'Huillier - Lund University

Dr. Anne L'Huillier - Nobel Prize in Physics 2023

Anne L'Huillier, Nobel Prize in Physics 2023: Official Interview

Exposing Discrimination in Science: The Story of Nancy Hopkins and MIT with Kate Zernike

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 07:00:00 +0000

This episode of AUTM on the Air is currently unavailable. In the meantime, be sure to check out one of our other interviews with patent and licensing professionals, innovators, entrepreneurs, and tech transfer leaders that focus on the issues and trends that matter most.

Protecting Tech Transfer And University Innovation Funding With Mike Waring

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 07:00:00 +0000

The future of research and innovation is on the line. Right now, universities across the country are facing significant funding cuts that could reshape the way groundbreaking discoveries move from the lab to the real world. These cuts threaten not just the researchers and students who rely on them, but the very foundation of our innovation economy. If you have ever wondered how new medicines, cutting-edge technologies, or even life-saving treatments come to exist, the answer often lies in Tech Transfer. Without proper funding, that process is at risk.

To unpack what is happening and what can be done, I am joined by someone who has spent nearly two decades fighting for research funding and intellectual property policy in Washington, D.C. Mike Waring. Mike is the Advocacy and Alliances Coordinator for AUTM. Before that, he spent 20 years leading the University of Michigan’s Washington office, working on Tech Transfer and policy issues at the highest levels. If anyone knows the ins and outs of how research funding decisions are made and what tech transfer professionals can do to advocate for their work, it is him.

In this episode, we get into the real stakes of these proposed budget cuts, what they mean for university innovation, and how Tech Transfer offices can better position themselves as indispensable assets on their campuses. We will also talk about the importance of storytelling in advocacy, why policymakers need to see the human side of research, and how even those who do not see themselves as lobbyists can play a role in protecting the future of tech transfer.

In This Episode:

[00:57] Mike Waring knows the ins and outs of advocacy in Washington better than most. He's been deeply involved in advocacy efforts for nearly 20 years.

[01:47] The strategy and focus for the conversations at Hill Day at the AUTM annual meeting. It was a great strategy to have members speak directly to people in DC.

[02:26] It was an opportunity to explain what we do and why tech transfer is so important.

[03:17] They want to put a cap on indirect costs such as lab infrastructure. A 15% cap is far below what universities have negotiated.

[04:25] A number of universities have raised red flags. Where will the money come to make up the difference in cost? We're going to make the case that an arbitrary number isn't the way.

[05:14] Simple and effective ways for Tech Transfer professionals to make their case to policy makers and University leadership. Make a case for the benefits to the local community.

[07:15] How Tech Transfer professionals can position themselves as an essential resource during discussions about funding and economic impact.

[08:46] Strengthening patent rights and what is eligible and what's not eligible. There's also another bill to try and fix problems with the patent appeals board.

[11:47] Hopefully, we can get most of these bills passed through the senate floor.

[12:12] Demonstrating impact when arguing the case against budget cuts. Look at your own track record including startups and discoveries. Show revenue, job creation, and innovation.

[14:15] It's easier for the head of the office to engage. If this isn't you, talk to your boss first. The director should have contact with the vice president of research. The federal relations people are your conduit for reaching the audiences for these issues.

[15:03] Include policy makers in events and showcase your progress. Put examples in their brain. When the battle is won, one policy maker at a time.

[16:11] Corporate partners can also help make the case on these issues.

[17:46] The budget deficit is quite large. The key is reducing the debt in a thoughtful way. We need more innovation not cutting back on growth potential.

[19:50] University presidents and CEOs can speak for the entire entity on these issues.

[20:19] America is the leader in innovation for a reason. We've empowered researchers to research on all kinds of topics. They've used federal funding and look at all of the benefits because of that. This is an investment that pays us back!

Resources:

Mike Waring - AUTM

A Year of AUTM Advocacy with Mike Waring

Preparing for Potential Challenges

Redefining DEI in Innovation: Lily Zheng on the FAIR Framework for Tech Transfer

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Defending American Science: Holden Thorp on the NIH Funding Crisis and the Future of Research

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Research doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It needs a foundation of stable funding, institutional support and policies that empower researchers to innovate. But today that foundation is under threat.

In this episode we dive into one of the biggest problems facing American research: the NIH funding crisis. On February 7th the National Institutes of Health (NIH) slashed indirect cost reimbursements from 50-60% to 15%. This has sent shockwaves through the academic and research communities. With this policy change universities across the country are facing an unprecedented financial squeeze and are having to re-budget, slow hiring and even rethink long-term projects.

Joining us today to break it all down is Dr. Holden Thorp, Editor-in-Chief of the Science family of journals and one of the most influential people in the world of science. With a career spanning chemistry, academic leadership and biotech innovation Dr. Thorp has been Chancellor of UNC-Chapel Hill, Provost at Washington University in St. Louis and co-founder of Viamet Pharmaceuticals. He’s also a strong advocate for scientific integrity and the role of universities in innovation.

We discuss how this funding issue may transform the US research scene, ranging from how it may affect universities to the potential of brain drain as top researchers consider migrating to Europe or China where funding is more stable. We address the lawsuit challenging the NIH policy and how uncertainty is already delaying significant projects such as Johns Hopkins' $330 million neuroscience facility and critical maternal health initiatives.

Dr. Thorp discusses whether universities should rely more on industrial relationships, or if this risks diluting curiosity-driven research. We also discuss how universities, organizations, and state governments might work together to put pressure on Congress and find strategic solutions.

In This Episode:

[01:17] Explanation of the NIH’s February 7th directive, which capped indirect cost reimbursements at 15% instead of the usual 50–60%.

[02:05] Dr. Thorp breaks down the difference between direct and indirect research costs, using a cooking analogy to explain how universities rely on indirect cost recovery for infrastructure, lab maintenance, and tech transfer operations.

[04:12] How the federal government and universities developed a shared-cost model for research after World War II to encourage curiosity-driven discoveries.

[05:40] How funding uncertainty affects long-term projects. Risks to major initiatives like Johns Hopkins’ $330 million neuroscience facility and Michigan State’s maternal health programs.

[06:15] Many universities borrow against future indirect costs to finance construction. The new NIH policy threatens these financial models, potentially affecting bond ratings and making future research investments more expensive.

[07:32] Dr. Thorp explains how these funding cuts could drive top international researchers to Europe and China, where funding structures are more stable.

[10:22] Some universities are now adding caveats to admissions letters, warning that funding isn’t guaranteed. Risks of eroding trust in academia as a stable career path.

[12:29] Beyond litigation, universities must build coalitions with industry, nonprofits, and state governments to pressure Congress and prevent further damage.

[16:10] They have a Trump tracker with very up-to-date funding information. It's also in the Science Advisor newsletter.

[17:15] The potential role of biotech firms and philanthropic ventures in filling funding gaps. Risks of diluting curiosity-driven research.

[20:23] Many HBCUs and regional universities rely heavily on NIH funding, and these cuts could exacerbate existing inequities in research capacity.

[24:28] Comparisons to the 2008 financial crisis, the 2013 sequestration, and other funding challenges. This situation is unique.

[28:45] Can protests and public pressure force change? The impact of researcher protests, bipartisan pushback in Congress, and media scrutiny.

[31:34] Dr. Thorp questions whether historically competitive universities will set aside differences and embrace shared research infrastructure and open-source models.

[33:04] Young researchers should stay the course, emphasizing that science is cyclical and funding priorities will shift again.

[34:53] It's important to talk about the economic impacts and issues with healthcare related to budget reductions.

[37:20] The scientific community’s ability to adjust and innovate will be key to weathering this storm.

Resources:

Holden Thorp, Ph.D.

Dr. Holden Thorp - AAAS

ScienceAdvisor Newsletter

Dr. Holden Thorp - Columbian College of Arts & Sciences

Dr. Holden Thorp - LinkedIn

Engines of Innovation: The Entrepreneurial University in the Twenty-First Century

Our Higher Calling: Rebuilding the Partnership between America and Its Colleges and Universities

From Childhood Invention to Engineering Leadership with Dr. Tahira Reid Smith

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Engineering is more than just numbers and equations—it’s about people, innovation, and solving real-world problems. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Tahira Reid Smith, an engineer, educator, and entrepreneur who is shaping the future of engineering through human-centered design. From childhood inspiration to groundbreaking research, she has dedicated her career to making technology more inclusive, effective, and meaningful.

Dr. Reid Smith is the Arthur L. Glenn Professor of Engineering Education and Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Penn State University. She is also the founder of Jump Dreams, Inc. and leads the Research in Engineering and Interdisciplinary Design Laboratory. Her expertise spans multiple fields, including psychology, social sciences, and engineering, to create solutions that put human needs first. In this conversation, she shares her journey from a childhood invention to industry collaborations with NASA and Procter & Gamble. She offers insights into innovation, diversity, and the role of persistence in engineering breakthroughs.

Join us as we talk to Dr. Reid Smith about her career, her work on diversity in STEM, and her entrepreneurial drive to bring big ideas to life whether you’re an engineer, entrepreneur, or just someone interested in how technology and design impact our world this episode is full of inspiration and practical advice.

In This Episode:

[01:48] The story of inventing the Double Dutch robotic device and how she became an engineer.

[02:29] When studying mechanical engineering, she remembered her third-grade dream and was inspired to start sketching ideas.

[03:32] She loved Double Dutch and wanted a machine that could turn ropes.

[04:21] Tahira always enjoyed math and science. She excelled and decided to major in mechanical engineering.

[06:49] We learn how attending Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute shaped her approach to engineering and innovation.

[07:27] There was a culture of design and entrepreneurship, and you were encouraged to get a patent. The Maker culture was common.

[08:57] We learn about human-centered design and why it's crucial. It's all about keeping the human at the center of the process.

[11:40] We learn about a collaboration that Tahira worked on at Purdue that looked at thermal properties of curly hair. The human consideration was looking at heat damage that black women could experience.

[14:03] Tahira breaks down how the interdisciplinary approach affects her process. It's common to bring in social science methods in design theory. Psychology and social science insights are very valuable.

[17:10] How technology transfer professionals can facilitate collaborations across different academic departments. Working with an interdisciplinary team might help answer questions you couldn't do alone.

[18:44] Tahira was also a teleworker at NASA from 2022 to 2021 in the Convergent Aeronautics Solutions Group.

[21:14] We learn about industry partnerships such as partnering with General Motors and Proctor and Gamble. Connections are helpful, but persistence is often times required.

[25:09] Tahira is a co-founder of Black in Engineering. Diversity helps reduce instances of bias and blind spots.

[28:55] Promoting diversity and inclusion. Be intentional when engaging with the faculty on campus. Is the database representative of the community's demographics?

[30:24] Compassionate design is a framework created to help engineers think about the dignity, security, and empowerment that users ought to feel when engaging with your creation.

[31:47] Ask questions about your product, such as whether it will create embarrassment or how someone will feel using it.

[32:55] Tahira has over 60 articles published. Academic publishing brings credibility to the role that you're doing, primarily peer-reviewed articles.

[34:15] Having published work on your idea will give you an edge when standing before investors.

[35:02] We learn more about Jump Dreams, Inc.'s founding and the Double Dutch jump rope invention.

[38:13] Don't just stay within the walls of your university go out and do outreach. Reach out to the younger generation and show them what's possible.

[39:10] Generative AI and Artificial Intelligence are impacting everyone right now.

[40:25] Tahira is excited about a project she's working on that's designed to help the elderly and another one to help increase situational awareness for firefighters and police officers.

Resources:

Dr. Tahira Reid Smith

Jump Dreams, Inc

The REID Lab @ Penn State

Dr. Tahira Reid Smith - PennState

Dr. Tahira Reid Smith - Instagram

Dr. Tahira Reid Smith - Inventor Spotlight

Dr. Tahira Reid Smith - LinkedIn

Dr. Tahira Reid Smith - The Lemelson Foundation

Black in Engineering

The Hidden Influence of Inventions on Humanity with Dr. Ainissa Ramirez

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Science isn’t just about discovery; it’s about transformation. In this episode, I talk to Dr. Ainissa Ramirez, an award-winning scientist, author, and science advocate who wants science to be for everyone. From her childhood of taking things apart to her work in materials science, Dr. Ramirez shares how curiosity and representation shaped her journey.

Her book The Alchemy of Us explores how materials like clocks, steel rails, and copper cables advanced technology and changed human behavior in unexpected ways. We’ll talk about the unintended consequences of innovation, from how artificial light affects our health to how AI is changing the way we think. Dr. Ramirez also shares her thoughts on diversity in STEM and the power of storytelling in making science relatable.

Whether you’re a scientist, an innovator, or just curious about the world around you, this episode will make you rethink technology’s place in our lives. Listen in for an interesting conversation that spans history, science, and human experience.

In This Episode:

[00:43] Dr. Ainissa Ramirez is an award-winning scientist, author, and passionate science communicator.

[01:33] Her love for science was inspired when she was young. She loved taking things apart and asking questions. And she also loved watching the PBS program 321 Contact.

[03:02] Material science is between chemistry and physics. Everything has to do with the interaction of atoms. She went on to graduate school and worked at Bell Laboratories.

[04:34] Bell Laboratories is where she developed her research skills, and it took her from graduate school to the next level, where she went on to Yale.

[05:49] The Alchemy of Us focuses on how eight inventions have shaped humanity.

[06:28] She wants to share how important material science is to other people. She thought the best way to do that was to show the impact on humanity.

[07:32] We learn about the book's origin story, which involves glass blowing.

[08:27] She wanted something from history that was made possible because a specific material existed or didn't exist. Then, she added the origin story and the impact of the material.

[10:19] Her favorite chapter was the last one. It's about how computers are altering the way we think.

[11:30] How looking at simple technologies will prepare us to ask questions about technology we won't be able to understand, such as AI.

[12:34] Lights actually shape our health. Our bodies have a daytime mode and a nighttime mode. Shift workers working under a blue fluorescent light have their health affected.

[14:09] Diverse groups make better solutions. It's important for us all to have mentors. We also need to support people interested in STEM, even if they don't have a strong background.

[15:27] Representation needs to be supported with longevity.

[16:39] The function of racism is a distraction. Barriers should never stop us from doing the work we're meant to do.

[17:12] Technology is everywhere. We need to have an understanding of the things around us. Critical thinking and being curious are very important.

[18:09] Getting people excited about science includes telling good stories and making the material accessible.

[19:10] Science is a story.

[20:03] Tech Transfer people are well-positioned to know what the good stories are. They not only see the science and the concept, but they also see how it's useful.

[21:05] The thing in front of her is what's most exciting now. Each step was compelling. Don't study alone, and always get a tutor. Be brave and ask questions.

[22:19] She has a series of children's books coming out.

Resources:

Dr. Ainissa Ramirez

The Alchemy of Us

Science Underground Podcast

Dr. Ainissa Ramirez - LinkedIn

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Breaking the Silence on Mental Health in Technology Transfer with Megan Aanstoos, Anji Miller, and Ed Ergenzinger

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 08:00:00 +0000

In the fast-paced world of Tech Transfer, we work to close the gap between great research and real-world impact. But behind the scenes, many of us face high pressure, high expectations, and a profession that’s often misunderstood. Today we’re breaking the silence on a critical but often overlooked issue—mental health in tech transfer.

In this episode, we’ll talk about the unique challenges we face, from imposter syndrome and burnout to the stigma around mental health in the workplace. Most importantly we’ll discuss how to create a culture of well-being in Tech Transfer offices (TTOs) and what leadership can do to drive real change.

Three amazing guests are joining us, and they bring diverse expertise and personal experience to this important conversation. Megan Aanstoos is the Senior Program Officer for VentureWell where she supports teams in the Rapid Acceleration of Diagnostics (RADx) programs, an initiative at the intersection of science and social impact. Megan is also on the Board of AUTM and has led the charge on diversity, equity, and inclusion (EDI) education in the knowledge transfer community.

Anji Miller is the Senior Academic Engagement Partner and Director of the LifeArc Fellowship Programmes. A seasoned Tech Transfer professional, Anji leads initiatives on gene therapy innovation and STEM outreach programs and is on the boards of AUTM and ASTP. As an EDI advocate, she is involved in policy engagement and skills development in tech transfer.

Dr. Ed Ergenzinger, JD, PhD is a patent lawyer, neuroscientist, and adjunct professor whose personal experience with bipolar disorder has shaped his work as a mental health advocate. With over 20 years of patent law experience, Ed writes and speaks about mental health issues in the legal and tech transfer professions and has even developed a law school course on mental health and wellness.

Together we’ll discuss how mental health affects productivity, what Tech Transfer can learn from other high-pressure professions like law, and why leadership matters in creating a workplace that prioritizes well-being. We’ll also talk about how the pandemic changed the conversation around mental health—and why we need to keep talking.

It’s time to move beyond silence and stigma and take real steps towards a healthier tech transfer community.

In This Episode:

[03:46] Why mental health in Tech Transfer has received less attention than it has in other fields includes lack of infrastructure and stigma, because of the requirement to survive in a high-pressure environment.

[05:25] The unique nature of tech transfer work. We talked about imposter syndrome and putting your own health at risk to excel in the profession.

[07:22] We discuss parallels between mental health in tech transfer and legal professions. There are initiatives that Tech Transfer could draw from.

[10:19] We discuss how poor mental health has negative effects on productivity.

[13:25] Pressure is increased because there's no one to cover for the tech transfer professional. The work is so individual and specialized.

[14:13] We talk about how the pandemic affected people in Tech Transfer and how it continues to affect them.

[17:57] How diversity inclusion efforts can inform our approach to mental health and TTOs.

[20:28] Inclusivity and making people feel valued for who they are creates a safe environment.

[21:02] How TTOs can better support the mental health of their staff and people around them.

[25:28] Things that TTO leaders can do to create a culture that prioritizes mental health include leading by example.

[30:58] Practical strategies that TTOs can implement to promote better mental health for their employees in this current political environment.

[33:01] Health and wellness programs need to be geared toward particular employees. Leaders need to listen and understand what they're going through.

[43:39] It's important to remain flexible and not to put together cookie-cutter policies.

[44:05] Things to look out for that might indicate a mental health challenge.

[46:11] Creating an environment where someone feels safe enough to speak out about their concerns without fear of stigma or retaliation.

[49:25] Megan would like to see the breaking down of the stigma that mental health isn't real health.

[51:23] Ed would like to see something similar to the mindful business charter with smart meetings, respecting rest periods, and openness and respect.

[52:14] Anji talks about the importance of respecting individuality to keep the best people on the team and advocate for continuous Improvement.

Resources:

Megan Aanstoos - VentureWell

Megan Aanstoos - LinkedIn

Anji Miller - LifeArc

Anji Miller - LinkedIn

Dr. Ed Ergenzinger

Dr. Ed Ergenzinger - LinkedIn

Breaking the Silence: Mental Health in Technology Transfer

Recommended reading:

Books

Articles

“Building Your Resilience,” American Psychological Association, Feb. 1, 2020.
Alexander G., “7 Therapists and Lawyers Offer Keys to Navigating the Stresses of Big Law,” Business Insider, Sep. 1, 2022.
Alexander G., “Leading by Example: The Importance of Role Modeling for Lawyer Mental Health,” Law Practice Today, Jan. 5, 2023.
Austin D.S., “Food for Thought: The Neuroscience of Nutrition to Fuel Cognitive Performance,” 95 Oregon L. Rev. 425 (2017).
Austin D.S., “Windmills of Your Mind: Understanding the Neurobiology of Emotion,” 54 Wake Forest Law Review 931 (2019).
Austin D.S., “Mindfulness for Lawyers: Decrease Your Stress and Improve Your Performance,” The Docket, Aug./Sep. 2017, pp. 18-19.
Cleavenger D. J. & Munyon T. P., “It’s How You Frame It: Transformational Leadership and the Meaning of Work,” 56 Bus. Horizons 351 (2013).
Ergenzinger E., “Three Natural Remedies Shown to Help Depression and Anxiety,” Psychology Today, Aug. 8, 2022.
Ergenzinger E., “5 Surprising Ways Gut Health Affects Mental Health,” Psychology Today, Aug. 15, 2022.
Ferguson R., “It’s a Career, Not a Contest,” TYL, 27(1): Fall 2022.
Ferguson R., “It Takes Strength to be Kind,” TYL, 27(3): Spring 2023.
Goh J., Pfefer J., & Zenios S.A., “Workplace Stressors & Health Outcomes: Health Policy for the Workplace,” 1 Behav. Sci. & Pol. 43 (2015).
Hakanen J.J. & Schaufeli W.B., “Do Burnout and Work Engagement Predict Depressive Symptoms and Life Satisfaction? A Three-Wave Seven-Year Prospective Study,” 141 J. Affective Disorders 415 (2012).
Kasdan M., “Difficult Conversations About Suicide. Towards a Better Path Forward,” The Good Men Project, Apr. 11, 2022.
Kasdan M., “How In-House Counsel Can Drive Improved Mental Health in the Legal Field,” LexBlog, May 1, 2023.
Kasdan M., “Attorney Mental Health and Well-Being: The Case for Change,” Practical Law, The Journal (Reuters), Oct. 2023.
Lukasik D., “Too Much Depression, Too Little Sleep: 3 Things You Can Do to Get a Better Night’s Slumber,” Lawyers With Depression, Jul. 17, 2019.
Lukasik D., “The Suicide of a Law Student Hits Home,” Attorney at Work, Jul. 23, 2019.
Lukasik D., “How to Get Things Done When Depression Hits,” Lawyers With Depression, Oct. 15, 2019.
Lukasik D., “Change Your Thinking, Change Your Anxiety and Depression,” Lawyers With Depression, Oct. 19, 2024.
Lukasik D., “Treating Lawyers with Depression: One Psychologist’s Top 10 Tips,” Lawyers With Depression, Jan. 28, 2024.
Lukasik D., “One Therapist’s Take on Lawyer Addiction & Mental Health,” Lawyers With Depression, Jul. 22, 2024.
Nicholl E., “Work/Life Balance in the Legal Profession: Mental Health Under the Microscope,” LawCareers.Net, May 13, 2024.
Ong D.T. & Ho V.T., “A Self-Determination Perspective of Strengths Use at Work: Examining Its Determinant and Performance Implications,” 11 J. Positive Psychol. 15 (2016).
Reivich K.J., Seligman M.E.P., & McBride S., “Master Resilience Training in the U.S. Army,” 66 Am. Psychologist 25 (2011).
Robertson I.T., Cooper C.L., Sarkar M., & Curran T., “Resilience Training in the Workplace from 2003 to 2014: A Systematic Review,” 88 J. Occupational & Org. Psychol. 533 (2015).
Rountree G., “Legal Leaders, Embrace Your Role to Improve Legal Workplaces,” Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers, Oct. 19, 2023.
Slemp G.R. & Vella-Brodrick D.A., “Optimising Employee Mental Health: The Relationship Between Intrinsic Need Satisfaction, Job Crafting, and Employee Well-Being,” 15 J. Happiness Studies 957 (2014).
Su Y-L. & Reeve J., “A Meta-Analysis of the Effectiveness of Intervention Programs Designed to Support Autonomy,” 23 Educ. Psychol. Rev. 159 (2011).
Uhl G.R., Koob G.F., & Cable J., “The Neurobiology of Addiction,” Ann. N.Y. Acad. Sci., 1451(1):5-28 (2019).
Wang J., “Work Stress as a Risk Factor for Major Depressive Episode(s),” 35 Psychol. Med. 865 (2005).
ASTP Webinar on Mental Health: https://www.astp4kt.eu/webinars/edi-sig-mental-health-in-knowledge-transfer.html

Empowering Inventors: Insights from Carmine Denisco of the United Inventors Association

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

What does it take to turn a great idea into a market ready product? This week on AUTM on the Air we have Carmine Denisco, president of the United Inventors Association (UIA) to talk about the journey of independent inventors. With over 100,000 members worldwide the UIA is a non-profit dedicated to providing resources, education and advocacy to inventors and ethical partnerships.

In this episode, Carmine shares valuable advice for tech transfer professionals and inventors. From overcoming intellectual property challenges to manufacturing and commercialization he offers practical tips and real-world examples. He also talks about the importance of slowing down, doing your market research and getting the right support to avoid the common pitfalls.

Whether you’re an independent inventor, an entrepreneur, or part of the innovation ecosystem, this episode is packed with strategies to help you succeed.

In This Episode:

[01:36] The United Inventors Association has been around since the late 1980s. It's also a 501c3 non-profit.

[02:30] The UIA mission is to help empower, educate and give resources and connections to inventors.

[03:25] They have service providers and people who can help traverse the sequence of taking a product from idea to market.

[04:08] Intellectual Property is so important and a great tool.

[05:27] Inventors face many challenges including making sure the idea has legs and education, knowledge, and experience. Talking to the right people can be a challenge.

[08:52] What tech transfer professionals should know about working with individual inventors as opposed to university researchers.

[10:20] Time and balancing everything are our big challenges.

[11:07] There's a time and a sequence for getting a patent. UIA tries to slow things down and put the right IP in the right place.

[14:25] The product needs to be made at the right place for that product at that time.

[15:04] UIA tries to slow things down and find the right places to innovate.

[16:11] UIA works off of donations and volunteers. A lot of inventors give back. They don't charge for membership yet.

[18:22] The role that partnerships play at UIA and how they advocate for inventors.

[19:34] UIA is educating inventors and helping to make connections and offer resources to keep them on track.

[21:25] Advice for universities and institutions to help inventors and students. Take an outside inventor and create a program about that. Get everyone involved from business to marketing.

[24:36] Top educational priorities include checking the market. Educate yourself on the process of taking something to market. Look at legal and know the processes.

[27:19] Carmine talks about outreach programs that have worked well.

[28:25] We learn what the UIA has planned for 2025 and beyond.

Resources:

Carmine Denisco - United Inventors Association

Carmine Denisco - LinkedIn

Earmark Sourcing

From Lab to Launch- Key Strategies for Accelerating Drug Discovery in Tech Transfer With Elizabeth Douville

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

The process of transforming cutting-edge academic research into life-changing therapies is often described as moving from bench to market. Joining us today is Elizabeth Douville, President and CEO of Iricor, a cancerology and immunology research valorization center based at the University of Montreal.

Elizabeth is a leader who connects academic, industry and government ecosystems. She has a passion for scientific research and a track record of turning university innovations into biotech companies. She’s a force to be reckoned with in the life sciences.

In this episode we’ll talk about how Iricor is tackling drug development, de-risking early stage innovation and commercializing promising therapies. We’ll also talk about bridging the infamous “Valley of Death” where so many projects go to die and how collaboration, entrepreneurial thinking and adaptability are the keys to success. Tune in for a behind the scenes look at innovation and the future of life-changing therapies.

In This Episode:

[01:54] Why the gap between academic innovation and commercialization often referred to as the "valley of death". The reality is that this is the place where projects go to die.

[02:35] There can be problems with funding, technical validation, or market potential.

[03:08] We learn the critical components for a successful drug discovery commercialization strategy that can be used by Tech Transfer offices.

[05:13] You can't develop a drug and commercialize it on your own. Innovation takes a village.

[06:07] We learn tactics and frameworks for de-risking projects. You need to go through the education process, do your homework, and sit down with the researcher.

[07:22] Working collaboratively on the development path and having proof of concept can help get additional funding and move the innovation along. Each step should mitigate risk and make the technology more attractive.

[08:43] Advice for TTOs and creating strong collaborations. Being a not-for-profit organization enables entities to apply for government aid and programs.

[11:16] Approaching market assessment and validation to ensure commercial viability of a project. Access market intelligent databases for an early understanding of potential.

[12:23] Networking and knowing people in the industry and going to conferences is another part that will help with market assessment.

[13:54] Prioritizing projects to maximize impact and balancing resource allocation. There are challenges but in the end they want to get new drug modalities to the patients.

[15:58] Approaches to secure funding. Being a not-for-profit entity is the key to be eligible for programs. Be creative and leverage what's in your system from alumni to philanthropy.

[18:11] Keys to collaboration include flexibility, agility, and understanding.

[19:29] Elizabeth shares an example of an Iricor project that they helped to commercialize. The journey can be long and you have to be mindful of the IP.

[24:29] Best practices to follow without IP conflicts include making sure everybody's sitting at the table with the Pharma partner when everything comes together.

[26:04] Empowering academic researchers to think like entrepreneurs. Universities have a big role to play when it comes to fostering an entrepreneurial mindset.

[27:47] Advice for building a culture of innovation and collaboration within a TTO office includes leading by example and having an entrepreneurial and solution oriented mindset.

Resources:

Iricor

Elizabeth Douville - LinkedIn

2025 Predictions for the IP, Tech Transfer, and AI Landscapes With Eli Mazour

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

At the beginning of this new year and a new administration, we wanted to examine what trends, challenges, and opportunities lie ahead for technology transfer professionals and IP practitioners.

My guest is Eli Mazour, an intellectual property attorney with Foley & Lardner LLP and host of the Clause 8 podcast. Eli is known for his intricate understanding of the patent system and his unique ability to help clients build valuable, litigation-ready patent portfolios that drive business goals. He’s also a trusted voice on patent policy and legislative developments.

Eli and I discuss predictions for how the new administration could shape patent and intellectual property policy, the potential direction of Congress on patent reform, and how cutting-edge technologies like AI are influencing IP strategy.

If you work in Technology Transfer, you won’t want to miss Eli’s expert take on how these changes might impact your office’s priorities, partnerships, and patent portfolios.

In This Episode:

[02:00] It's going to be an interesting new year with a new administration.

[03:02] Major factors and big players shaping IP in 2025. Howard Lutnick will be in charge of the Commerce Department which oversees the PTO.

[05:05] Past policy proposals rolled out to theoretically reduce drug prices. There is a huge backlog for examining patent applications.

[07:38] There's also going to be openings for improvements on the hill.

[09:45] Innovators need some type of predictable logic with patents.

[12:14] The revised guidance at the USPTO was a huge benefit.

[13:02] How the balance between innovation incentives and market competition will evolve under the new administration.

[14:48] It's interesting how they're looking for more innovators in the defense space. Companies don't want to lose all of their IP to the government.

[15:43] The importance of creating an ecosystem that supports innovation and allows innovators to keep their IP rights.

[17:19] How the march-in rights issues changed the discussion about making investments.

[18:16] Sectors that will probably have heightened patent activity or regulatory focus.

[22:29] How will the next administration approach AI-related intellectual property issues?

[27:57] Eli talks about AI tools for drafting and prosecution. Rooney

[29:00] A lot of stuff to save an attorney's time could be done through automation.

[31:16] It takes a lot of time to clean up AI-related work, but it could help make applications more robust.

[32:29] Eli talks about the types of tools that he's excited about.

[34:04] What policymakers should think about the impact of AI driven Innovations on IP Frameworks.

[37:17] Eli's top recommendations he would share with Congress for strengthening Innovation and protecting inventors.

[38:51] Possible bipartisan opportunities for reform.

[40:15] Hopefully, we'll see an emphasis on allowing innovators to be more secure in the rights that they came up with.

[41:17] A big innovation trend includes companies trying to figure out how to make AI work for them.

Resources:

Eli Mazour - Foley & Lardner LLP

Eli Mazour - LinkedIn

Clause 8 Podcast

Fostering America's Inventive Spirit: The Invention Education Program at Sacramento State

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

CSUS Sacramento or Sacramento State is part of the California State University system, the largest public university system in the US with over 450,000 students across 23 campuses in California. We all know that the journey of invention and innovation starts with education and Sacramento State is leading the way with their Invention Education Program.

This class is based on the Lemelson-MIT program. It’s designed to have students tackle real-world challenges. This transdisciplinary program is all about inclusivity, diversity, and the power of invention to create meaningful change. Joining us today are four amazing guests who each play a key role in this inventive spirit.

Dr. Christopher Rogers is a professor at Sacramento State and lead of the transdisciplinary Invention Education course. With years of experience in innovation through education, Dr. Rogers helped design a curriculum that develops technical and entrepreneurial skills as well as community engagement and social responsibility in his students.

Rafael Gacel-Sinclair is a Technology Transfer Officer for the Office of Innovation & Technology Transfer (OITT) at Sacramento State. Rafael is key in aligning the Invention Education Program with the university’s overall innovation and commercialization goals. His work ensures the program is the bridge between academic learning and real-world application, so students can see their ideas come to life.

Stephanie Couch, Executive Director of the Lemelson-MIT Program, also joins us. Stephanie is on a mission to democratize invention education. She has been instrumental in expanding access to programs that empower diverse learners to engage with the invention process. Her work ensures the benefits of innovation reach underrepresented groups in STEM and creates pathways for new voices and ideas in the field.

Michael Cima, Faculty Director of the Lemelson-MIT Program, brings his expertise in innovation, education, and mentorship. A professor and inventor himself, Michael ensures programs like the Invention Education initiative are research-based and practical. He’s committed to cultivating inventive thinking so students can tackle the big challenges with confidence and creativity.

In This Episode:

[04:29] The Lemelson-MIT Program was started about 30 years ago with generous funding from the Lemelson Foundation. The original mission was to inspire young people to live creative and inventive lives.

[05:18] Prizes were awarded to inventors. About 10 years ago, they began working on inventor education. They began awarding High School inventors and letting them take the project to MIT. They have a diverse group of people who have earned patents.

[07:23] They also begin researching the pathway to becoming an inventor and developing more inventors. They are now focused on developing the next generation of leading innovators.

[08:12] University collaborators are needed to nurture inventors.

[09:23] Stephanie talks about the many programs for young inventors.

[11:41] The Invention Education Program works with higher education faculty and staff to develop their understanding of the invention process and practices. Schools are motivated to offer things to students that will be meaningful in their futures. They are inventing classes that will offer college credit.

[14:38] Christopher had worked at Lemelson. He became excited about seeing diverse students interested in STEM and learning about becoming an inventor.

[17:08] Students are imagining the world where they are actively designing the process.

[18:21] He realized that invention education was a way for people to save people and was interested in bringing this program to Sac State.

[20:46] With his background in social sciences, Christopher knew that the community and team aspect of inventorship was something he was very interested in.

[22:43] Christopher explains more about the invention education course and how it's going to be a two-semester original transdisciplinary course.

[27:31] Students are loving the program so far.

[31:44] Sacramento State Office of Innovation and Technology Transfer, OITT has a mission to manage, protect, and commercialize Sacramento State IP, and educate faculty, staff, and students about IP, while encouraging them to invent, create, and innovate.

[37:05] The Rapid Brands story. From Sac State to Davis to Shark Tank and selling microwave cookers worldwide. This program will create more successful students just like the Rapid Brands creator Chris Johnson.

[40:06] Tech Transfer offices need to do more to teach their students about IP, inventing, innovating, and starting businesses.

[41:39] Invention education programs from Lemelson-MIT and Sacramento State will help close the gender and ethnic gaps in inventorship.

[46:29] If you want to learn more you can always contact Stephanie at SCouch@mit.edu

Resources:

Dr. Christopher Rogers - Sacramento State

Rafael Gacel-Sinclair - LinkedIn

Stephanie Couch - Lemelson-MIT

SCouch@mit.edu

Michael Cima - Lemelson-MIT

Lemelson-MIT

Partners In Invention Education

Pathways to Invention

Customer Discovery in Tech Transfer: Ensuring Innovations Meet Industry Demands with Kate Havey

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Getting groundbreaking technology from the lab to the market is no easy task, and it’s a challenge that every Tech Transfer professional understands well. While university Tech Transfer offices are often measured by the number of licenses executed, success isn't just about numbers; it's about ensuring the technologies developed truly meet market needs.

Kate Havey, the Assistant Director of Licensing at Venture Partners at CU Boulder, Is here to help us explore this topic. She brings a wealth of experience in research, teaching, and intellectual property management. She’s worked on everything from biomedical innovations to electric vehicle batteries. In our conversation, we dive into how early engagement with industry can help steer research in the right direction. Kate shares her insights on customer discovery, and starting these conversations before or at the proposal stage can make all the difference in ensuring that the technologies we create solve real-world problems.

We also explore the reality that while some innovations may seem groundbreaking, industry often needs practical, financially viable solutions. Kate discusses CU Boulder’s approach to fostering relationships with researchers through programs that refine technologies, debunking misconceptions about what industry really needs, and highlighting the importance of building strong ecosystems to support market-ready technologies. This conversation underscores the need to align both people and processes to make tech transfer truly effective.

In This Episode:

[01:58] We kick off with the biggest challenge aligning university innovation with market needs. It revolves about embracing the concept of customer discovery early in the process.

[02:28] Having customer discovery questions early in the process is key.

[03:39] Early means having conversations before or at the proposal stage.

[04:02] The importance of looking at what you're trying to achieve when increasing invention disclosures. Encouraging disclosure increases inventor engagement.

[05:05] Technology has to be ready for the market if it's going to be adopted.

[06:11] Kate shares an example of something that was too early for market. Their entry level program is called Starting Blocks, and it dives into customer discovery. Going out and finding the pain points. This process ensures an innovation that companies actually need.

[07:21] A technology developed by Dr. Rich Noble that developed ionic liquids for gas separation. They were able to switch focus. Early customer discovery helps develop a better product.

[11:28] The importance of patience and perseverance.

[12:27] The program helps ask the right discovery questions and teaches a framework for presenting ideas.

[13:31] There's a pipeline of programs which leads to deeper dives into customer discovery.

[15:26] Kate started the Translational Research Summit Series at CU which brings together PIs, companies, entrepreneurs, investors, and policy makers.

[16:47] Common misconceptions about what industry wants include the idea of just building it and there will be a market.

[17:40] Industry's view involves the idea of making money.

[18:24] Tech Transfer people need to find a way to have conversations about aspiration versus pragmatism.

[19:36] Kate shares advice for prioritizing market goals.

[21:46] The role the local innovation ecosystem plays in cultivating market ready technologies.

[24:21] Kate shares how CU Boulder fosters an environment that bridges the gap between research and commercialization.

[27:08] Kate pulls out her crystal ball and looks ahead and tells us what she's most excited about in the future. Large and small industries are becoming more excited about taking a role in university research.

[29:22] Being available for each step of the process is an emerging Tech Transfer role.

[30:05] The importance of aligning technologies for industry needs and aligning people and relationships with the broad process of Tech Transfer.

Resources:

Kate Havey - CU Boulder

Kate Havey - LinkedIn

Adapting to Change: Insights on Europe’s Unitary Patent System with Robert Alderson and Mariella Massaro

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In 2024, the European patent system is undergoing one of its most significant transformations in decades. The introduction of the Unitary Patent and the Unified Patent Court is reshaping how intellectual property is protected and enforced across Europe. For innovators and businesses alike, this marks a pivotal moment—one that promises streamlined processes but also introduces new complexities. Today, we’re exploring what these changes mean and how they might impact the future of innovation.

Joining me for this fascinating discussion are two renowned experts in intellectual property law, Robert Alderson and Mariella Massaro, partners at Berggren, a leading European IP firm. Both Robert and Mariella bring unique perspectives and deep expertise to our conversation. Robert is a rare hybrid in the IP world, qualified to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office, the European Patent Office, and now the Unified Patent Court. With more than 20 years of experience spanning two continents, he offers a nuanced understanding of both U.S. and European patent practices.

Mariella’s career has been equally impressive. A Certified Licensing Professional and recognized IP strategist, she has nearly two decades of experience navigating the complexities of IP litigation and commercial transactions. Her work with clients preparing for the Unitary Patent system highlights the practical challenges—and opportunities—that lie ahead. From pharmaceuticals to fashion, her portfolio reflects the wide-reaching implications of this new patent framework.

Together, Robert and Mariella will break down what you need to know about the Unitary Patent and Unified Patent Court, offering insights on how to prepare, adapt, and thrive in this evolving landscape. Whether you’re an inventor, an entrepreneur, or simply curious about the future of innovation, you won’t want to miss this episode.

In This Episode:

[04:22] Mariella shares an example of what UPC is now. She talks about Seoul Viosys Co., Ltd. and Seoul Semiconductor Co., Ltd., v. Expert Klein GmbH, expert e-Commerce GmbH, Düsseldorf (DE) LD.

[05:06] The UPC court is very fast.

[08:56] Mariella talks about another case, 10X Genomics and Harvard v. Nanostring, that sets the criteria for claims interpretation for validity and infringement.

[10:00] Robert talks about Sanofi v. Amgen. This was the first successful revocation action at the UPC. If you're going to file a patent in the US and Europe, you have to satisfy the different requirements.

[12:38] The application of the doctrine of equivalents at the UPC.

[13:45] What happens when there is a UPC action that is conducted in parallel with the EPO opposition? Astellas versus Herios.

[15:41] Focusing on unitary patents and filing and prosecution strategy. There has been an uptick in unitary patents.

[16:29] Robert talks about the transitional period in unitary patents.

[19:41] AIM Sport versus Suponor. Some of these issues are only for the transitional period.

[22:02] If the national patent application strategy is going to be used, it's important to understand which countries you can use the PCT route and which countries you can't.

[22:34] How TTOs can use this transitional period to balance the risk. Use a unitary patent with the broadest possible claims, and then file a divisional application and classically validate that patent.

[24:22] We learn about literal double patenting. This is only available under specific circumstances.

[26:50] This strategy is being utilized in the US currently.

[27:14] What TTOs need to know when licensing their patent portfolios in Europe. Make sure all of your rights in the ownership agreement are addressed specifically.

[37:33] How representation of joint owners before the EPO and UPC work.

[38:13] The first applicant listed is considered the common representative.

[40:33] Robert and Mariella share what they think TTOs should look out for in 2025.

Resources:

Robert Alderson - Berggren

Robert Alderson - LinkedIn

Mariella Massaro - Berggren

Mariella Massaro - LinkedIn

Autm Annual Meeting In March

Redefining Leadership: How CIOs Are Leading Universities into the Future with Kimberly Gramm and Glen Gardner

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000

The role of Chief Innovation Officer is transforming the way universities approach innovation and entrepreneurship. Once confined to the corporate world, this position is now becoming a cornerstone of academic leadership, enabling institutions to centralize their efforts around economic growth, interdisciplinary collaboration, and societal impact. Universities like MIT, Penn State, and Tulane are embracing this change, appointing CIOs to streamline activities across departments and amplify their influence on both campus and community.

Today, I’m joined by Kimberly Gramm, Chief Innovation and Entrepreneurship Officer at Tulane University, and Glenn Gardner, President of Gardner Innovation Search Partners. Kimberly is a powerhouse in early-stage technology development, having overseen the creation of over 300 startups that collectively raised $470 million in investment capital. At Tulane, she is building an entrepreneurial pipeline and leading initiatives like the NSF-funded Fuel project, a $160 million effort focused on energy transformation.

Glenn, with over 24 years of experience in recruiting innovation leaders, provides valuable insights into how this role is evolving and what it takes to succeed in bridging academia and industry.

In this episode, we unpack the strategies behind fostering innovation ecosystems, breaking down silos in academic settings, and creating seamless partnerships between universities and industry. They explore how CIOs are reshaping university culture, driving technology commercialization, and addressing some of today’s most pressing societal challenges.

We dive deep into the growing importance of the Chief Innovation Officer, offering a fresh perspective on how universities can maximize their potential and lead the way in global innovation.

In This Episode:

[00:52] The role of CIO or Chief Innovation Officer is gaining traction in universities.

[03:47] Kimberly breaks down what started the shift in academia.

[07:06] Glen shares what he's seen including breaking down silos.

[08:18] In academia the focus is on research and education and societal impact. Goals include fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.

Success is also measured through longer term outcomes.

[09:47] The mission of academia and academia innovation is impact. It's also about finding and retaining the best faculty.

[11:29] The vice provost for research can focus on research while the CIO can focus on innovation.

[12:17] Having a CIO helps streamline decision making and coordination.

[14:21] Kimberly talks about focusing on societal needs.

[15:25] According to Glenn, de-risking is moving more towards the universities, and the tech transfer and corporate engagement offices are working more closely together.

[19:05] Seamless integrated innovation breeds success.

[20:12] It's important to find out who has the relationship with industry and find the problems that need solving.

[21:02] NIH and NSF funding is going down, so it's more important than ever to have industry collaborations.

[21:47] Kimberly shares an example of this in action where they have a cooperative agreement with the technology development arm of the energy engine in Louisiana. They were given $160 million and the state matched another 68 million.

[24:54] Kimberly outlines support and alignment for the CIO role in universities. She has worked at three different universities. Strong leadership support and executive backing is first and foremost. Defining metrics is also critical.

[28:39] Glenn emphasizes the importance of executive buy-in.

[31:05] The board at Tulane wanted to participate in innovation and entrepreneurship. This led to a framework of success and putting the right puzzle pieces in place.

[37:11] Specific strategies for implementing a CIO at a university. Number one is building trust in relationships.

[41:45] Glenn talks about how a hospital system views Innovation compared to a university.

[42:51] Glenn talks about how this role is necessary to keep up. The bar is raised. Even organizations that don't have this role, have people acting in the role.

[44:07] Glenn shares the qualities that make an ideal CIO. It's a diverse skill set. We need more people from the business side.

[46:05] It's about change management expertise and cultural transformation in complex organizations.

Resources:

Kimberly Gramm, MBA, PhD - Tulane University Innovation Institute

Kimberly Gramm, MBA, PhD - LinkedIn

Glen Gardner - Gardner Innovation Search Partners

Glen Gardner - LinkedIn

The Rise of the University Chief Innovation Officer

Suspenders4Hope: How Tech Transfer Is Helping Transform Lives

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Did you know that the restaurant and construction industries have among the highest suicide rates in the country? That's where Wichita State University's Suspenders4Hope initiative comes in, combining ingenuity and compassion to address mental health issues head-on. This breakthrough endeavor began as a campus-based campaign for suicide prevention and mental wellness training and has since spread to companies across the country.

We’re joined by three incredible guests who helped make it happen. Rob Gerlach, Wichita State’s Associate Vice President of Tech Commercialization, shares how tech transfer played a key role in scaling this initiative. Zeeshan Khan, Program Manager for Tech Transfer, discusses the challenges of working in a human-centered, non-traditional tech transfer space. Dr. Jessica Provines, the program’s creator and Chief Psychologist at WSU, opens up about her personal journey and the program’s mission to foster hope and reduce deaths of despair.

In this episode, we explore the innovative strategies behind Suspenders4Hope, including non-exclusive licensing and industry collaborations. We also examine how this program is making a significant difference, from providing individuals with mental health tools to altering businesses and communities. Stay tuned for an exciting discussion about how technology transfer can be a force for good.

In This Episode:

[02:26] This is an important conversation and a fascinating story.

[02:41] Jessica shares how Suspenders4Hope came about. She went through her own experience with depression. Her own experience through suicide loss made this cause near and dear to her heart.

[03:15] They got a Federal Suicide Prevention Grant to work on this issue.

[04:12] After creating a successful program on the campus, they decided to help more people. She was grateful that she was able to be guided by a Tech Transfer office.

[05:05] WSU is a leader in innovation and Technology Transfer.

[06:10] Rob talks about what it was like when this product first came to their Tech Transfer office. It didn't fit the typical mold. Jessica and her team were committed to moving the initiative forward.

[07:35] The purpose of moving the product out to the world was still in the same vein as a transfer project.

[08:12] Zeeshan talks about what made Suspenders4Hope stand out.

[08:58] There was a need for the team to understand and promote the product as ambassadors.

[10:02] Benefits of using non-exclusive licensing for mental health training.

[11:28] The Tech Transfer office and their expertise to help figure out how to scale.

[14:58] Zeeshan talks about the construction and hospitality industry adopting the program. Partnerships in the sectors are crucial.

People resonate with the program as a lifeline.

[17:32] Jessica talks about the core elements of the training and what makes it so impactful. They are focused on creating a movement.

[22:05] Branding and meeting the program where it's at.

[24:43] They've had very positive responses from the industries adopting the program.

[28:38] Jessica's dream is for the long-term impact of the program to help transform lives.

[31:16] The number one lesson is to always remember to think outside of the box.

[34:24] Think about how you're fulfilling needs when trying to get involved with social impact initiatives.

[37:39] According to Jessica, it comes down to relationships and being able to show love and compassion for people.

[39:24] There are broader uses of Technology Transfer than just finding patents. It's about transferring technology into the hands of people who can make the biggest impact.

[42:28] Advice for pursuing socially impactful projects.

Resources:

Suspenders4Hope

Rob Gerlack Wichita State University

Rob Gerlach LinkedIn

Zeeshan Khan Wichita State University

Zeeshan Khan LinkedIn

Dr. Jessica Provines Wichita State University

Dr. Jessica Provines LinkedIn

Balancing Innovation and Integrity: Ethical AI in Tech Transfer with Charles Holloran

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Are we ready for the ethical challenges AI brings to Tech Transfer? Today’s episode dives into artificial intelligence's rapidly evolving role in tech transfer, examining the frameworks that help us navigate its legal, societal, and ethical complexities. Our guest, Charles Halloran, brings deep expertise in technology licensing and intellectual property, with a career that spans some of the most significant patent and trademark cases. His perspective on managing AI responsibly is invaluable for anyone looking to understand the delicate balance between innovation and integrity.

We’re exploring questions around the ethical use of AI, particularly in the unique environment of Tech Transfer offices at universities. Charles shares insights on how data should be curated and protected, ways universities can create their own safe AI systems, and the protocols necessary to avoid pitfalls in data-sharing. The discussion touches on real-world issues like inventorship, confidentiality, and open-source licensing, offering actionable steps for institutions striving to build trust while leveraging AI's capabilities.

Listeners will come away with practical guidance on fostering responsible AI use, from addressing bias in training data to implementing clear data-management policies. Charles emphasizes that adopting a strong ethical foundation isn’t just good practice—it’s essential for sustainable innovation. This conversation is packed with insights and strategies for navigating the AI-driven future of Tech Transfer with transparency and care.

In This Episode:

[02:02] Tech Transfer is a bridge that brings innovation to the public. Data used to train AI needs to be well-curated and ethically sourced.

[04:01] Legal and ethics challenges TTOs face in maintaining standards, especially when it comes to protecting proprietary information.

[05:05] Charles talks about data privacy and hosting your own AI infrastructure. We've come to understand what reasonable protections need to be in place for previous technologies.

[06:27] AI challenges include helping people understand what's working and what's happening to the data.

[07:37] Universities have put policies in place that restrict the use of LLMs that aren't the licensed commercial choice of the university.

[08:39] Charles talks about protocols and best practices for ensuring that TTOs maintain proper disclosure and human oversight over AI generated work.

[10:25] Ethical responsibilities regarding AI assisted inventorship. Tech Transfer offices need to ask how AI was used if it was used at all.

[13:08] Balancing Innovation with ethical safeguards. Charles talks about the 13 Principles for Using AI Responsibly in Harvard Business Review.

[13:57] Effectiveness and safety are primary concerns in the White House Bill of AI Rights.

[15:03] Find an AI Bill of Rights that works with your institutional culture.

[16:28] Many TTOs make these frameworks available on a website. Also build it into your education process and outreach to researchers.

[17:58] Charles has a strong background in open-source licensing.

[18:09] How principles from open source can inform responsible AI practices.

[21:18] Charles shares an example where lack of attention to responsible AI policies led to a speed bump in commercializing a product.

[23:07] Being casual about the data that you're using at the development stage leads to roadblocks or problems at the commercialization stage.

[26:18] Charles talks about issues with licensing and shared data between different hospitals or universities.

[27:56] We talk about the risks of social biases when using AI. The first place to begin is recognizing that bias is an issue.

[30:59] We are developing better tools and awareness to help counteract bias.

[32:02] What tech transfer offices can do to help broaden the use of underrepresented groups. Using AI tools to alleviate bias.

[35:05] Should TTOs take a leading role in setting ethical standards for AI use especially when it comes to managing bias in societal impact?

[37:32] It's likely ethical considerations in AI will evolve very quickly.

[41:34] How to start building a foundation for ethical AI use. Charles recommends choosing a framework. Use transparency and create trust.

Resources:

Charles Halloran - KPPB

Charles Halloran LinkedIn

Harvard Business Review's 13 Principles for Using AI Responsibly

Blueprint for an AI Bill of Rights

AI in Action: Transforming Outbound Marketing for Tech Transfer Success with Andrew Rankin

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 08:00:00 +0000

What if artificial intelligence could do more than just automate tasks? What if it could open doors to partnerships and markets we have never considered? In today’s episode, we’re exploring how AI is reshaping outbound marketing strategies in Technology Transfer, turning complex innovations into viable, real-world solutions.

This isn’t just about tech—it’s about discovering new ways to connect groundbreaking ideas with the industries and people who can bring them to life. To guide us on this journey, we’re joined by Andrew Rankin, the Intellectual Asset Marketing Lead at Idaho National Laboratory.

Andrew has spent the last five years pioneering how AI-driven tools can enhance outreach, especially in the complex world of Tech Transfer. With an MBA from Idaho State and an Early Career Professional of the Year award under his belt, he’s developed approaches that make his team’s work both smarter and faster. He’ll share insights into his own process, including how tools like FirstIgnite help him identify key contacts, craft strategic messages, and even reveal cross-sector applications that might otherwise go unnoticed.

AI isn’t a magic fix. He’s faced his share of challenges—from compliance issues to building secure, reliable systems—and learned how to start small, test, and adapt. So, if you’re curious about how AI could be a game-changer in Tech Transfer or are looking for practical advice on where to start, this conversation is for you.

In This Episode:

[00:44] How AI is reshaping outbound marketing strategies in the Tech Transfer sector.

[01:41] Outbound marketing and the Tech Transfer world. Outbound marketing involves actively reaching out to potential licensees.

[02:38] Andrew's main focus is on email outreach.

[03:14] Outbound also offers a more focused approach.

[04:21] Andrew began 5 years ago fresh out of college, and he pioneered the process.

[04:43] FirstIgnite software has been instrumental in his process.

[06:24] How AI is helping in the Tech Transfer industry. With AI, we can do more with less.

[08:42] AI doesn't replace humans. It helps us scale what we're already doing.

[09:17] Andrew walks us through a typical AI driven marketing initiative.

[10:16] It starts with an AI tool that creates a one-pager. FirstIgnite identifies the companies to reach out to. He then finds the person to contact and drafts through an email composer tool.

[12:24] He only uses information that is publicly available.

[14:22] AI can identify non-obvious industry applications, potential cross-sector uses, or even companies that weren't even on the radar at all.

[15:07] He developed a custom GPT, but they're currently working on a more secure tool.

[17:16] His process has allowed him to contact 940% more people than he could previously.

[18:34] Common obstacles and challenges a Tech Transfer office may face when implementing AI solutions, including compliance issues.

[22:09] Addressing data privacy and compliance.

[24:08] Regulatory compliance is also a focus.

[26:46] Start small and practice to get the hang of using AI as you progress.

[28:11] Andrew shares a success story. He reached out to Open AI, and they are discussing a larger research partnership.

Resources:

Andrew Rankin Idaho National Laboratory

Andrew Rankin LinkedIn

FirstIgnite

Revitalizing Rural America: The Role of University Tech Transfer and Cooperative Extension with Dr. Richard Cahoon

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 07:00:00 +0000

For decades, rural areas have faced a steady decline—losing economic opportunities, grappling with the "brain drain" as creatives and young people migrate to urban centers, and watching local industries falter. But what if university Tech Transfer offices (TTOs) could reverse this trend and be the spark for rural revitalization? Today’s episode explores this potential with Dr. Richard Cahoon, an expert in the field who has over 30 years of experience in invention, intellectual property (IP) management, technology commercialization, and entrepreneurship.

Dr. Richard Cahoon, an Adjunct Professor in Global Development and former Director of Cornell’s Tech Transfer office, has worked extensively with universities, government agencies, and companies across more than 25 countries. In addition to advising on R&D partnerships, IP management, and venture creation, Richard is a seasoned innovator who holds several U.S. patents.

His vision? To align TTOs with Cooperative Extension offices and bring technology and entrepreneurship into rural communities to foster local talent, create sustainable businesses, and ultimately reshape these areas’ futures. Join us for this insightful conversation as Richard shares his strategies, lessons learned, and the transformative potential of connecting university resources with rural America.

In This Episode:

[02:04] Rural America has faced economic decline for decades, and traditionally, university tech transfer offices have focused more on urban or research-intensive areas.

[03:02] When Dr. Cahoon joined Cornell's Tech transfer office in 1990, he brought with him experience as an inventor and an entrepreneur. He was very involved in creating opportunities and recruiting entrepreneurs. He created the Venture Vision Summary which was like a tech brief.

[04:48] He wanted to take a proactive role in creating entrepreneurial activity in rural towns.

[06:10] Dr. Cahoon shares information about his first tech and entrepreneur pilot program in Auburn, New York.

[09:30] There was robust entrepreneurship at Cornell which helped with the pilot program that Dr. Cahoon was developing.

[10:19] How Tech Transfer professionals can help foster local talent retention through similar models.

[11:11] Thinking about the creative economy and creative people. Tech Transfer professionals are the bridge to enable the creative economy to flourish.

[12:56] He left the Tech Transfer office in 2009 just as it was beginning to thrive.

[13:41] We learn about a startup that came out of the Geneva campus at Cornell. It was about biological control of agricultural pests and disease.

[17:49] Dr. Cahoon made a connection with the owner of a car dealership while he was at Cornell. They ended up establishing a venture fund.

[18:51] Challenges when extending Tech Transfer models to a rural context.

[21:48] The importance of cooperative extension programs.

[24:09] Parallels between rural America's current situation and other countries or regions when fostering local innovation.

[25:55] How fortunate we are in the United States. Other countries have so much bureaucracy it's absolutely stifling.

[26:28] Key steps for growing this particular model at Cornell and other universities. It would be interesting to get a room full of Tech Transfer office directors and cooperative extension directors.

[28:13] It might be possible to start by getting Tech Transfer people together at AUTM.

[28:53] The AUTM 50th Anniversary meeting is coming up in March in Washington DC.

[29:11] Movements with impact often start with a small group.

[30:29] Dr. Cahoon shares the story about a small town that was once thriving because of technology and patents. This one is about the Channel Master TV antenna.

[32:05] This success can be reproduced with new technology.

[32:34] Practical advice for getting started and gaining traction in your local community. Reach out and look for technologies that might belong in a rural community. Do marketing with that in mind.

[35:08] How the TTO/Cooperative Extension could evolve. It has the potential to be one of the pillars of the mission of Tech Transfer.

Resources:

Dr. Richard Cahoon LinkedIn

Dr. Richard Cahoon

Inside the CRISPR Patent Wars: Innovation, Rights, and Legal Battles with Dr. Kevin Noonan

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In recent years, CRISPR technology has emerged as a game-changer in the world of gene editing, unlocking remarkable possibilities across various sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, and environmental science.

But what is CRISPR? CRISPR stands for "Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats" and is based on an ancient function of prokaryotes—single-celled organisms such as bacteria and archaea. These organisms use a specialized CRISPR-associated molecule, Cas, to cut and destroy the DNA of invading viruses called bacteriophages.

The CRISPR-Cas system has been engineered to work in eukaryotes, like animals and plants. Its ability to make precise, targeted cuts in DNA sequences allows scientists to insert, delete, and modify DNA across a wide variety of cells. Among the various Cas proteins identified, the best known is CRISPR-Cas9, which has become a transformative tool in genome editing.

Given the potential value of this technology, the CRISPR patent landscape is vast. Some estimates suggest there are more than 12,000 families of patents related to CRISPR technology. Unsurprisingly, disputes have arisen over the ownership of these patents. Most famously, two groups have claimed rights to the use of CRISPR-Cas9 for eukaryotic gene editing: the University of California, Berkeley, the University of Vienna, and Dr. Emmanuelle Charpentier (CVC) on one side, and the Harvard-MIT Broad Institute on the other.

This dispute has led to several complex and lengthy battles in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, the European Patent Office, the Japanese Patent Office, the Chinese Patent Office, and in various courts, where proceedings are still ongoing.

Here to help us understand the latest developments in these ongoing disputes is Dr. Kevin Noonan. Kevin is an experienced patent lawyer, molecular biologist, and renowned thought leader in biotechnology and pharmaceutical patent law. He is a partner at the intellectual property law firm McDonnell Boehnen Hulbert & Berghoff, where he co-chairs the firm's Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals Practice Group.

He is also the co-founder and regular contributor to Patent Docs, a website featuring news and commentary on patent law. In addition, he is a co-editor and contributing author of the book Claim Construction and the Federal Circuit, and a contributing author of Antitrust Issues in Intellectual Property Law, now in its second edition.

In This Episode:

[03:42] Dr. Noonan talks about how the Broad Institute and CVC became key players in the CRISPR patent landscape. Broad had very aggressively filed patents. CVC took a more laid back approach. Since the Broad patents were already filed they caused interference when the CVC patents came up.

[05:41] Broad had the earlier filing date.

[06:35] Dr. Noonan explains interferences.

[11:21] Eventually, the patents and applications may need to be decided in court.

[12:03] A summary of the main claims and inventions in the first interference. One had a more narrow claim to CRISPR.

[13:22] PTAP dismissed the first interference finding no interference.

[15:57] Interference number one was a victory to Broad.

[16:14] California wasn't happy with the first decision, so they filed a second interference.

[17:40] We learn about the rationale behind PTAB holding for Broad.

[21:55] The PTAB determined in the first interference that this was complicated and if it didn't work, they didn't really have conception.

[24:42] This is really an anomaly in interference law to have the second to conceive in the absence of these diligence issues, to have the second to conceive get the priority.

[25:14] Because it's so complicated, it's taking the Federal Circuit a long time to decide.

[26:22] Dr. Noonan shares how Broad should approach the case.

[27:32] There are four more CRISPR interferences involving Broad and CVC. Two involve Sigma Aldrich and the other two involve ToolGen.

[31:21] Dr. Noonan talks about what this means for the future of CRISPR research and applications and what tech transfer offices should be most aware of.

[34:42] Lessons that innovators, researchers, and tech transfer offices can draw from all of these interferences moving forward.

[39:35] The status of the Broad Institute and CVC's CRISPR-Cas9 patents in Europe.

[45:08] We discuss Sigma and ToolGen's patents in Europe.

[47:15] The status of the Broad Institute’s and CVC’s CRISPR-Cas9 patents in Japan and China.

[48:28] Final thoughts for Tech Transfer offices. It's a moving target, and as time goes by, there's more types of genetic interferences.

[49:45] The University of Missouri has gotten the first CRISPR pig patent in Europe. There's a proposed ban in Europe on selling CRISPR genetically modified plants.

Resources:

Dr. Kevin Noonan

Dr. Kevin Noonan LinkedIn

Patent Docs

Guardians of Ancient Wisdom: Navigating Indigenous IP in Tech Transfer with Graham Strong

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 07:00:00 +0000

What if the next technology or scientific breakthrough is hidden in ancient tribal knowledge? Today, we'll look at Indigenous knowledge and intellectual property, and how Tech Transfer Offices deal with the specific issues of protecting and honoring these cultural assets.

We're delighted to welcome Graham Strong, Otago Innovation's commercialization manager with over 25 years of business expertise. Graham is an expert in both intellectual property and Indigenous rights, with a PhD in Botany and a Master of Laws focusing on the monetization of Māori medicinal knowledge.

As Otago Innovation's expert in natural product commercialization and Indigenous intellectual property, Graham is perfectly positioned to help us navigate this complex landscape.

We'll look at the underlying contrasts between Indigenous and non-Indigenous intellectual property systems, the problems of protecting Indigenous IP during technology transfer, and the importance of respectful interaction with Indigenous people.

We also look at how universities may form meaningful, long-term relationships that go beyond transactional agreements, ensuring that Indigenous perspectives are heard and their expertise is appropriately recognized and preserved during the innovation process.

In This Episode:

[01:44] Graham has a lot of expertise in both intellectual property and indigenous rights.

[02:02] Graham shares that traditional knowledge and indigenous IP are two different things.

[04:02] We talk about how universities can engage indigenous communities in a culturally respectful and meaningful way.

[05:01] Conversations can start when everyone realizes it's okay to be uncomfortable. Graham also talks about reputational damage.

[06:06] Key challenges when protecting indigenous IP in the context of text transfer.

[07:19] We talk about things like handling consent and ownership when traditional knowledge is embedded in new technology.

[08:14] It's difficult to protect background IP which is in the public domain. Graham talks about prior informed consent and mutually agreed terms. These are some of the ingredients that can be in place to handle consent of ownership.

[10:05] Drafting these types of agreements is still a work in progress for Graham's institution.

[11:32] The role that indigenous communities play in the decision-making about how they're knowledge is used.

[13:14] It's a balance between financial and non-financial when putting these partnerships together.

[15:45] We learn about the distinctions of which group you should engage in when looking for permission to use indigenous IP.

[18:33] Talking about cultural respect in tech transfer.

[20:33] We discuss whether universities are able to navigate these complexities while maintaining their core focus on research and innovation.

[23:02] Treating indigenous partners like any other partner and having a negotiation and seeing where it lands.

[24:38] Dealing with issues early on before money is involved.

[27:32] Graham shares a situation where involvement of indigenous communities has slowed down the commercialization of a technology.

[30:02] There have been times when there's been limited flexibility in developing commercialized technology with indigenous communities.

[32:03] We learn about how best practices in indigenous IP protection from other countries apply to universities in various legal, cultural, or economic contexts.

Resources:

Graham Strong - Otago Innovation

Graham Strong LinkedIn

The Business of Bourbon: IP, Innovation, and Kentucky's Finest with Dr. Greg Tucker

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 07:00:00 +0000

The bourbon industry is a major economic driver for the Kentucky region, with 95% of the world's bourbon supply made and aged in the Bluegrass State. There’s more behind those barrels than aging whisky.

I’m joined by Dr. Greg Tucker , a licensing manager and commercialization specialist III at the University of Louisville. His extensive experience includes negotiating business terms for license agreements, managing university technologies, and establishing partnerships between innovators and companies. He holds a doctorate in chemistry from Arizona State University and has multiple U.S. patents in renewable energy.

We talk about the rich history of bourbon, exploring its origins dating back to George Washington and the evolution of its production process. We discuss how intellectual property plays a crucial role in the bourbon industry, from trademarks protecting iconic brands to patents safeguarding innovative distillation methods.

Greg also shares insights into notable IP cases, including the Jack Daniel's dog toy dispute and Maker's Mark's signature red wax seal. We also explore groundbreaking innovations emerging from the University of Louisville, with a spotlight on Bioproducts LLC. This company is revolutionizing the industry by transforming distillery waste into valuable products like animal feed, healthy sugar alternatives, and even materials for 3D printing.

Whether you're a bourbon enthusiast or just curious about how innovation impacts industry, this episode is for you. Grab your glass, sit back, and let’s toast to the history and future of bourbon.

In This Episode:

[02:17] Greg is the licensing manager at University of Louisville Research Foundation and the diversity and inclusion pillar lead for HIPAA, our Kentucky Intellectual Property Association here locally in Louisville.

[04:12] Bourbon is a 9 billion dollar industry in Kentucky.

[05:12] Greg shares the history of bourbon with us.

[07:29] What makes bourbon a bourbon is that the mash is at least 51% corn. It also has to be distilled and aged in an oak barrel.

[11:09] During prohibition people could still buy medicinal bourbon.

[11:40] September is also bourbon heritage month.

[12:13] You can still find George Washington's still at Mount Vernon.

[13:39] Tennessee whiskey is bourbon with an additional process.

[15:29] Greg talks more about what makes a bourbon a bourbon.

[16:31] The role that IP plays when it comes to bourbon. It touches every aspect from names and trademarks to copyrights and design patents.

[19:34] There are also a lot of bourbon trade secrets.

[21:13] Greg talks about Jack Daniels vs. VIP Products, where a Jack Daniels bottle replica was used as a dog toy. Maker's Mark also had a case involving the red signature wax that drips from the top of the bottle.

[25:23] Bioproducts transform organic waste from distilleries into value-added products.

[27:20] Stillage is the organic grainy waste leftover from the fermentation process. Some interesting uses have been for it from animal feed to sweeteners.

[30:07] There is also a company working on developing Biocoal.

[32:35] Greg talks about working with farmers and collaborations using biomass.

[34:31] The Estate Whiskey Alliance is trying to make the industry more efficient.

[36:05] Greg talks about using carbon credits and becoming more efficient.

[38:07] Challenges from scaling up with Bioproducts

[44:19] We learn about a quantitative method that can be used to identify the type of bourbon or whiskey due to its unique grain pattern.

[46:26] For Greg, bourbon tasting is not only work, it's a hobby too.

[47:46] Greg talks about his favorite bourbon and whiskey along with an IP story.

[53:44] This episode winds down with talking about favorite bourbons and sharing a virtual drink.

[55:57] Greg walks us through a traditional Kentucky bourbon tasting.

Resources:

T. Gregory Tucker, Ph.D. LinkedIn

Telpriore Greg Tucker Facebook

Bioproducts, LLC

Harnessing The Power of AI for Tech Transfer Professionals with Peter Bittner and D’vorah Graeser

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 07:00:00 +0000

AI is transforming the tech transfer industry, but how can we stay ahead of this rapidly evolving technology and fully leverage its capabilities? In this episode, we explore how AI is becoming an essential tool, helping accelerate licensing deals, identify the right industry partners, and market innovations more effectively.

To dive deeper into these advancements, we offer a sneak peek into our upcoming 4-week virtual course, The Future of Tech Transfer: Leveraging AI to Find & Secure Licensing Deals. This course is designed to equip you with practical AI skills that can revolutionize your approach to tech transfer.

It covers topics ranging from finding ideal industry partners to crafting personalized marketing strategies, all while emphasizing AI tools that boost efficiency and productivity in tech transfer offices. We also address the importance of adopting AI now to avoid falling behind in this fast-moving field.

Joining us are the course’s expert instructors: Peter Bittner, founder and CEO of The Upgrade, who has helped organizations like NASA and Apple close the AI skills gap, and Dr. D’vorah Graeser, founder and CEO of RocketSmart.io, a platform using AI to connect universities with top corporate partners.

In This Episode:

[02:14] This course is intended to look at AI from the perspective of a tech transfer professional. It's about using AI tools to make the process faster and more productive.

[03:37] AI tools can help innovations find the right commercial home and the right partner to commercialize the innovation and bring it to market.

[04:42] These tools will help tech transfer professionals find the right contact and make the right case.

[05:24] D’vorah talks about challenges for tech transfer offices finding corporate partners.

[06:42] Peter talks about the wide range of tools that they'll be covering in the course.

[10:32] D’vorah talks about how AI tools can help with invention summaries by defining the essence of the summary in regular language or from a business perspective.

[12:20] One way to craft a stronger pitch is to find the buyer side persona. Who is the buyer? How to identify the correct buyer persona?

[14:17] The pre-recorded modules of the live course will give everyone a foundation. The live part of the course will show how the tool can be used within specific contexts.

[15:13] There will be a pre-recorded module before every live module that corresponds to the content.

[16:40] Peter talks about how AI will allow all storytellers to do more with less.

[18:06] They're going to have office hours titled, Ask Us Anything About AI.

[20:04] D’vorah also encourages everybody to join the AI Special Interest Group. She also has a book coming out. They want to scale down AI for specific fields.

[22:51] D’vorah and Peter talk about the specifics of the modules and how busy people can fit the class into their schedules.

[24:34] Peter shares an AI success story and how AI enables a small team to be scrappier and more productive.

[27:21] How AI is going to evolve over the next 5 to 10 years and the possibilities of reducing friction.

[29:02] We talk about why tech transfer professionals should get involved in AI right now.

Resources:

The Future of Tech Transfer: 4-Week Virtual Training Course: October 15 – November 7

Peter Bittner - The Upgrade

Peter Bittner LinkedIn

Dr. D’vorah Graeser - Rocket Smart

Dr. D’vorah Graeser LinkedIn

Untapped Potential: Investigating Gender Disparities in Patent Citations with Gauri Subramani

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 07:00:00 +0000

AI & IP: Navigating the New USPTO Guidance with Derrick Brent

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 11:28:32 +0000

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing industries across the board, from healthcare to finance, bringing with it new challenges for inventors, universities, and the IP community. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) recently issued new guidance on subject matter eligibility for AI inventions, providing much-needed clarity on how AI-related innovations can be patented. This update is vital for those working at the intersection of technology and intellectual property, especially in tech transfer offices and research institutions.

My guest today is someone deeply involved in shaping these policies: Derrick Brent, the Deputy Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Deputy Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). As Deputy Director of the USPTO, Derrick serves as the principal advisor to the Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the USPTO, Kathi Vidal. In his role, Derrick works to advance intellectual property policies that foster innovation, support startups, and enhance entrepreneurship nationwide.

We discuss AI subject matter eligibility guidance and its impact on the future of AI patenting. Derrick shares that the goal of this guidance is to promote clarity and consistency for both USPTO staff and external stakeholders in analyzing AI and critical emerging technologies. The USPTO aims to streamline the patenting process for AI-related inventions through clarity and consistency to patent subject matter eligibility. We also cover where stakeholders can submit comments and feedback on these guidelines. Additionally, we explore the tools and resources available to help everyone become AI fluent to navigate this rapidly evolving landscape.

In This Episode:

[02:39] Derrick gives us a brief overview of the key updates in the USPTO's AI subject matter eligibility guidance.

[03:02] AI presents one of the greatest technological innovation opportunities in a generation. It's transformative and an amazing Innovation opportunity.

[03:32] Order 14110 or the Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Development and Use of AI. Was used as a guiding principle.

[04:06] The guidance on the intersection of AI and IP, which could include patent eligibility issues related to innovation in AI and Critical Emerging Technologies was issued on July 17th of 2024. We are now in the middle of the comment period.

[04:12] There are three main parts to the guidance. The first part is to assist USPTO personnel and stakeholders in evaluating subject

matter eligibility for AI inventions.

[04:38] The second part of it is to provide a new set of examples to assist in applying guidance. The third part is to address feedback from stakeholders and also to discuss the law and policy landscape.

[06:40] Derrick shares information about the previous guidance that led up to this new guidance.

[12:19] The comment period is going on now, so submit your feedback regulations.gov.

[13:22] They are going to stay current with developments through engagement with stakeholders and interagency conversations and collaborations.

[15:41] Derrick shares important tools like Site Experience Education Program (SEE) and the Patent Examiner Technology Training Program (PETTP). The USPTO also has an AI portal.

[17:53] How the guidance addresses distinguishing between abstract ideas and practical applications.

[18:36] There is a two prong analysis. If the first prong is met then you move to the second prong.

[22:53] Use the tools with AI related patent applications. Be diligent and describe your invention as clearly as possible

[26:39] If you're interested in commenting, go to regulations.gov. The deadline for commenting should be in the portal.

[27:41] In spite of the type of IP, there is a consistency for the rules and guidelines of evaluation.

[29:49] Challenges include new and unprecedented inventions.

[30:56] Derick talks about government collaboration.

[33:14] AI is going to be a transformative problem solving tool.

Resources:

Derrick Brent

Derrick Brent LinkedIn

Journey to the USPTO — Derrick Brent, USPTO Deputy Director

Regulations.gov

Site Experience Education Program

USPTO Artificial Intelligence

How Public-Private Partnerships Are Advancing US Manufacturing With Nagesh Rao and David McFeeters-Krone

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 07:00:00 +0000

The Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) is a public-private partnership with centers in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. This episode dives into MEP and the MEP National Network—an initiative that has been a pillar of U.S. manufacturing, offering comprehensive solutions to manufacturers across the country and fueling growth and innovation in the sector.

Joining us for this discussion are two distinguished experts. First, we have Nagesh Rao, the acting director of the Manufacturing Extension Partnership at NIST. With over 25 years of experience across the public, private, and non-profit sectors, Nagesh brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. He previously served as Chief Information Officer for the Bureau of Industry and Security at the U.S. Department of Commerce, co-developed federal initiatives like i6 Green and Patents for Humanity, and led crucial technology efforts during the COVID-19 response.

David McFeeters-Krone is a commercialization and business development executive with over 25 years of experience at MIT, NASA-RTTC, Intel, and his own firm. He currently manages a Manufacturing Extension Partnership (OMEP) grant, engaging small manufacturers with the ManufacturingUSA institutes. David has reviewed numerous commercialization plans, founded two companies, and serves as an adjunct professor at Portland State University. He has established strategic R&D partnerships with organizations like the U.S. Air Force, NASA, and NIST, and was awarded the Federal Lab Consortium’s Outstanding Service Award in 2008.

In this episode, we’ll explore the MEP National Network’s role in supporting U.S. manufacturers, discuss innovative approaches to growth and competitiveness in the manufacturing sector, and gain valuable insights from Nagesh and David.

In This Episode:

[02:57] Nagesh shares how his background has led to innovation in the manufacturing sector.

[03:41] Nagesh started my career in technology transfer and commercialization back in 2002 at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

[04:29] Coming to the MEP program in 2023 was a full circle journey of his career. He worked in engineering, public policy, the US patent and trademark office, then worked in industry and the national security space.

[05:07] He now ensures evidence-based policy decision making at the federal level to support small and medium-sized manufacturers.

[07:10] For our country to be competitive from a national security perspective we need a robust manufacturing scene.

[08:20] Challenges include keeping up with software demands and having a talented technical workforce.

[10:39] The role of MEP in helping small and medium-sized manufacturers navigate these challenges. MEP has a 30-year history of being a trusted advisor. They meet these manufacturers wherever they are.

[11:46] Collaboration ensures new technologies make it from the lab to the production floor.

[13:29] MEP is perfectly positioned to help companies overcome hurdles especially with connections. The role of the MEP Advanced Technology Team.

[15:11] How the MEP supports tech transfer in the manufacturing sector and the role for tech transfer Professionals in this ecosystem. MEP National Network is a network of networks within a greater network of innovation ecosystems across the United States.

[16:10] Think of an MEP center as a hub of excellence for a company that is in the business of manufacturing.

[20:08] Navigating the complex balance between academia and industry for a mutually beneficial relationship. Communication, culture, and contact.

[22:54] David shares examples of successful partnerships that led to significant advancements in manufacturing technology. One of the examples he uses is 3D printed plastic parts to service forms for metal press part making.

[26:02] Measuring the success of the MEP manufacturer initiatives.

[27:04] Common pitfalls manufacturers encounter when trying to bring about new technology. Lack of time and not realizing the value of partnerships are common.

[34:00] The government has done a tremendous amount of lift for many companies. Large companies know how to use the federal government.

[39:59] Predictions for where the MEP is going to go in the next 5 years.

[41:16] How making investments to move forward will help in the long run.

[46:49] Advice for getting involved in an MEP Network and supporting local manufacturers includes beginning with connecting with your local center and going to the MEP website on NIST.gov.

Resources:

NIST MEP

MEP National Network

Nagesh Rao

David McFeeters-Krone

David McFeeters-Krone LinkedIn

Bridging The Gap Between Academic Research And Community Impact With Dr. Kendra Stenzel

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In a world where groundbreaking discoveries often struggle to leave the laboratory, we explore how to transform scientific insights into real-world solutions. We’re focusing on bridging the gap between academic research and community impact.

My guest today is Dr. Kendra Stenzel, the Director of Innovation Talent at the University of Kentucky's Office of Technology Commercialization. With her unique blend of scientific expertise and business acumen, Dr. Stenzel is at the forefront of training the next generation of entrepreneurs and commercialization professionals.

Armed with a Ph.D. in Pharmacology and an MBA with a focus on entrepreneurship, she serves as a vital bridge between researchers and the Tech Transfer office. Her mission? To help researchers reimagine their work through a commercialization lens, encouraging them to "fail fast and pivot" – a mantra that's reshaping how academic innovations reach the market.

She's also a facilitator, helping innovators develop business models, secure funding, and navigate the complex path from lab to market. Her experience with the Kentucky Network for Innovation and Commercialization (KYNETIC) has given her invaluable insights into nurturing early-stage innovations.

Today, we explore Dr. Stenzel's perspectives on how researchers can frame their outcomes to maximize community impact, the challenges of commercializing academic research, and her vision for the future of innovation in academia. Let's dive into this conversation about turning scientific breakthroughs into tangible benefits for society.

In This Episode:

[01:58] One of the main challenges with translating academic research into community impact is education.

[02:37] Common misconceptions and challenges include some innovators not understanding that their innovations aren't market ready or community ready and getting innovators to understand the word commercialization.

[04:20] The goal is beyond making money, it's having an impact on the community. Getting innovators to accept this reality has a lot to do with being intentional with the relationship.

[06:00] Balancing the academic focus on research and the need for commercialization includes relating with the researcher and investing in the relationship. Meeting the researchers in the lab and having the conversation about the science and defining the research and outlining the path forward.

[07:10] Barriers that prevent research from making it out of the university include lack of time, having all of the necessary qualifications, and having the knowledge and support.

[09:35] From the start they focus on things like the regulatory pathway, prototyping, and the facilities they have to use. Launch Blue has an innovation training program and programs that keep innovators engaged.

[10:46] Kendra talks about crucial elements of a successful education program for researchers.

[12:09] thinking outside the box and communicating that everyone can be an innovator.

[12:53] Money to put towards proof-of-concept development is crucial. The education and framework brought to the innovator is also very important.

[14:56] Collaboration and cultivating partnerships that align with university goals and needs of the broader community.

[16:44] Measuring the long term impacts of intellectual property assets. Defining success goes back to understanding stakeholders. They do have quantitative metrics to protect intellectual property assets. Kendra likes to look at the qualitative metrics and the innovator and the team.

[19:16] The MBA that Kendra is getting has really taught her to think in terms of strategy.

[20:43] Advice includes meeting innovators where they are and keeping relationships first.

Resources:

Kendra Stenzel Director, Innovation Talent Development UK

Kendra Stenzel University of Kentucky

Kendra Stenzel LinkedIn

Shattering the Glass Ceiling in Innovation and Patents With Dr. Marianne Privett And Dr. Aardra Kachroo

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Courtrooms to Congress: Legal Perspectives and Policy Updates with Jeffrey Depp

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Tech Transfer professionals have a lot to stay on top of, including the legislative and legal landscape in Washington, DC. My guest today is Jeffrey Depp, who shares his expert knowledge on the current cases we should be aware of.

Jeffrey is a registered patent attorney with extensive experience in intellectual property and innovation policy. His diverse background spans university Tech Transfer, the pharmaceutical industry, law, and the federal courts. Currently pursuing his PhD at the University of Pittsburgh, Jeffrey applies an Austrian economics lens to U.S. innovation, bringing a unique perspective to our discussion.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Jeffrey consults on biopharmaceutical innovation for the Center for Strategic and International Studies. His commitment to shaping policy is evident through his active involvement in various professional organizations, including his current membership and former role as chair of the Public Policy Legal Task Force at AUTM.

In today's episode, we'll explore Jeffrey's rich background and how it influences his current work. We'll provide an overview of this year's comment requests from Washington, DC, discuss the administrative landscape affecting Tech Transfer, and examine recent Supreme Court decisions, including Loper Bright v. Raimondo and SEC v. Jarkesy, and their implications for the tech transfer field.

We also look at key decisions in the federal courts and Congress. Jeffrey breaks down these cases and explains their relevance to us, while also sharing tips for tech transfer professionals to stay informed.

In This Episode:

[01:57] Jeffrey works with a number of organizations in DC trying to promote the progress of science through technology and commercialization.

[02:20] He has real world experience and formal training. He spent many years in the pharmaceutical industry and in university technology transfer. He has an MBA. He's a registered patent attorney. He's working on a PhD dissertation focused on the nature and causes of American innovation from an Austrian economics perspective.

[03:50] We learn why it's important for tech transfer professionals to stay updated on the legislative activities happening in DC. Staying on top of legislation is just another job that tech transfer professionals have to do.

[05:21] Bad policy can devour even the best of science. This is why Jeffrey has gotten involved to help great technology move forward instead of being stifled by bad policy.

[06:47] We try to keep our eye on three buckets, the administrative law side of it, what's going on in Congress with legislation, and of course, what the courts are doing.

[07:28] This year has been extremely active with nine or so comments requested from agencies.

[08:13] The USPTO has put out guidance about who is the inventor when it comes to AI technologies. There has to be sufficient human inventorship in order to be patentable.

[10:05] The patent office asked for comments about how to promote more innovation in the marketplace. There were also fee increases.

[14:44] Jeffrey talks about more of the comment request issues this year.

[17:31] There's another one about the impact of AI on prior art. The human being needs to be paramount in inventorship.

[22:29] The last one is about the experimental use exception.

[24:43] SEC v. Jarkesy referenced the Oil States case which did directly implicate intellectual property issues.

[28:19] Jeffrey talks about the private rights public rights doctrine of patents.

[29:01] Jeffrey talks about Loper Bright v. Raimondo.

[30:45] We discuss pending cases in the Supreme Court that we should keep an eye on including Cellect, LLC v. Vidal.

[31:21] This case is very important for tech transfer professionals to be following. The case establishes binding

precedent that a terminal disclaimer cuts off any extended patent term granted through PTA.

[38:28] Jeffrey shares his thoughts on some of the key decisions in the federal circuit court. Including the LKQ Corp. case which affects design patents.

[41:29] We also talk about University of California v. Broad Institute Inc. regarding CRISPR technology. This is important because gene editing is only going to continue to grow in creating health breakthroughs.

[45:28] We talk about the legislative side. Congress has introduced multiple patent bills including the Prevail Act, the Patent Eligibility Restoration Act, the Restore Act, RALIA, and the Balancing Incentives Act.

[46:16] Problems with the patent system include things that make patents unreliable and things that make patents uncertain.

[53:47] Jeffrey talks about the Countering Communist China Act and the Invent Here, Make Here Act.

[58:42] We discuss the FTC's move to ban non-compete agreements and how this could affect technology transfer offices.

[01:02:53] The best way to stay on top of things is to compartmentalize it in your mind and keep an eye on what's going on in the courts and the federal circuit. The Judiciary Committee has a subcommittee focused on IP. Also focus on the USPTO and the NIH.

Resources:

Jeffrey Depp LinkedIn

SEC v. Jarkesy

Loper Bright v. Raimondo

LKQ Corp case v. GM

Countering Communist China Act

Invent Here, Make Here Act

Using The Power Of Innovation To Move From Invention To Commercialization with Joy Goswami

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Innovation is at the heart of both Tech Transfer and human progress. It's in our nature to seek better ways of implementing ideas, but historically, innovation hasn't always received the scholarly attention it deserves, despite technology being integral to our lives—think of the 250,000 patents in a single smartphone.

I’m thrilled to have Joy Goswami, Senior Director of Corporate Engagement at Johns Hopkins University, here to talk about the role of Technology Transfer in fostering innovation, distinguishing between invention and innovation, and exploring how tech transfer professionals categorize, assess, and commercialize new inventions.

We'll discuss how the invention process begins with disclosure, followed by classification into sustaining, disruptive, and breakthrough technologies, among others. Disruptive innovations, in particular, create entirely new markets. We'll also touch on inspiring stories, like the invention of a glass keyboard for people with disabilities that became part of the iPhone, and a nurse's passion that led to a startup for wearable simulators.

As we look to the future, trends such as interdisciplinary research, entrepreneurship, and emerging technologies like AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, and biotechnology will shape the landscape of innovation. Join us to get an inside look into the power of innovation and the bright future of Tech Transfer.

In This Episode:

[02:10] Innovation is the cornerstone of what Tech Transfer professionals do. It's also the cornerstone of human development in general. It's our nature to seek new and improved ways of putting ideas into action.

[03:02] Innovation hasn't always received the scholarly focus that it deserves. Yet, technology is everywhere. There are 250,000 patents in our cell phone alone.

[05:02] Today we're going to talk about Technology Transfer in the role of innovation in Technology Transfer.

[05:16] The distinction between invention and innovation. Inventions are solutions to problems. Innovation is a commercially successful use of invention.

[06:22] The starting point is an invention disclosure.

[08:06] We chop up the invention disclosure in different segments and plug it into an assessment knowledge canvas.

[08:32] There are three broad categories to understanding innovation: understanding the innovation, the classification of the innovation, and additional details broken into 10 different subparts.

[09:32] We want to take the innovation from the point the inventor has given us to commercializing.

[10:14] Four kinds of patent protection including process, composition of matter, articles of manufacture, and machines.

[11:23] Classification also has four classes including sustaining, discontinuous, disruptive, and breakthrough technologies.

[12:16] Disruptive is critical, because it's the one that creates new markets.

[13:36] Tech Transfer professionals have a lot of responsibility with categorizing the Invention from the beginning and making sure that it has a value proposition.

[14:11] Crucial mindset for academic researchers to foster innovation. Academics are moving from doing the research and sharing knowledge to research that has an impact on society.

[17:35] There are translational researchers who love working in the translational space. They can be used as ambassadors to coach the next generation. Education about the process and benefits of tech transfer is crucial for innovation.

[19:32] Joy shares some personal experiences that highlight the power of mindset when it comes to innovation.

[21:19] The story of a keyboard developed on glass which was meant for people with disabilities. The inventors were able to sell the patent for this to Steve Jobs and it was integrated into the iPhone.

[23:03] The impact and passion that these inventors had led to success.

[24:28] A nurse who developed a wearable simulation device for training healthcare practitioners was so passionate that it became a startup called Avkin that makes wearable simulators.

[25:56] Johns Hopkins University is one of the oldest universities established in 1876. It was also one of the first universities to have research as a component. They now do $3.4 billion dollars of research. They get more than 400 disclosures a year.

[27:21] The Tasty Tape is a tape that holds a burrito together. It's simple and yet it was complicated. Hopkins also developed the targeted real-time early morning system or TREWS.

[28:41] Saccharin, rubber gloves used by surgeons, and the smart tissue autonomous robot STAR have been developed by Johns Hopkins.

[29:41] Exciting trends in academic transfer that boost innovation include integrated technology in the process. The world's getting smaller and everything's at a global scale.

[32:11] There's an increased focus of interdisciplinary research not just in the US but globally. Universities are also developing consortium models. There's also a growing emphasis on entrepreneurship and startup culture.

[35:07] Practical steps to create a culture that encourages and awards innovation amongst faculty and researchers. They need to be treated with a little TLC, because they do multi-functional work with education and research. We also need to continue to educate the faculty members.

[38:53] Emerging trends and technology shaping the future include AI and machine learning. Other emerging trends include cybersecurity, biotechnology, genomic space, and personalized medicine, and CRISPR technology.

[40:23] 3D printing, electronics, healthcare, energy manufacturing and data science are also sectors to watch.

[41:24] Things are going to become more complicated and sophisticated as we move forward.

Resources:

Joy Goswami, Senior Director of Corporate Engagement at Johns Hopkins University

Joy Goswami LinkedIn

Joy Goswami Twitter

Partners in Discovery: Unlocking the Potential of Research Collaborations With Gaylene Anderson

Healthcare's Next Frontier: University-Driven Innovation in Healthcare with Richard Gannotta

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Let’s take a deep dive into innovation in the health sector and the role that university research plays in this sector. Joining us today is Richard Gannotta, a seasoned healthcare executive with a remarkable career spanning top academic and public health systems.

From leading UC Irvine Health to shaping policy at NYC Health + Hospitals, Rick's expertise is unparalleled. As managing partner of Washington Square Advisors, he continues to drive innovation in the medtech and biotech industries. He's also a dedicated educator at NYU and the host of the Healthcare Nation podcast.

In this episode, we explore the future of healthcare and technological development. We'll explore how telehealth is transforming patient care, the groundbreaking potential of AI in medicine, and the critical role of intellectual property in driving innovation.

We'll also discuss the evolving landscape of healthcare delivery, the impact of new technologies like wearables, and the policies needed to support this exciting transformation. Join us as we uncover the trends shaping the future of health and wellness.

In This Episode:

[02:16] Rick shares his amazing career journey. According to Rick, he's just a kid from Brooklyn who caught a couple of good breaks along the way.

[02:46] He's always been interested in technology, science, and medicine.

[03:17] He ended up dropping out of high school and becoming a nurse's aide and then an LPN. This was a big break for him. It eventually led to nursing school, becoming a nurse practitioner, and getting a degree. He now has an MBA and a doctorate in healthcare policy.

[04:33] Starting out working at the bedside was invaluable information for his further career. He's also always taught academically. His firm Washington Square Advisors is a boutique firm navigating the intricacies of the healthcare sector.

[06:26] Career paths aren't linear. They can have many twists and turns.

[06:54] Rick believes that technology is the new biology. It will be equally important for the health and wellness of society and individuals.

[08:03] Validating ideas and whether the innovation is addressing the issue.

[10:17] Three Factor Framing. There are three factors that are the key components of disruptive innovations. The first Factor F1 is really market eligibility or ideation. Is there demand?

[12:14] F2 is the governing process. The environmental gating conditions that would slow things down or speed them up.

[12:56] F3 is the out of field variable or the X factor. It's an approach or technology commonly used in a different sector.

[14:05] These can be applied to idea generation, brainstorming and more.

[16:15] Rick talks about Telehealth and AI revolutionizing healthcare. There are incredible opportunities to change the game.

[18:02] Rick predicts a convergence of The Internet of Things and medical technology.

[20:14] The first rule at Washington Square Advisors is to seek to understand your client's challenges. Work closely with the teams to understand the philosophy.

[23:18] Rick talks about navigating IP challenges working with startups in the healthcare sector. It's essential to secure your patent early.

[27:44] Governmental policies are very important when you're thinking about startups.

[28:19] Can we make healthcare better, more convenient, and more accessible using technology? Another big issue is the medical professional shortage.

[32:46] Strategies for tech transfer offices include having strong relationships with industry partners, having your finger on the pulse of what's happening, and understanding the resources that you need to provide.

[34:33] Partnership agreements and joint ventures make a lot of sense.

[35:16] Pitfalls include not fully understanding or underestimating hurdles such as regulatory issues. Inadequate market understanding, fit, and validation are also concerns that need to be addressed.

[36:43] All of the processes begin with education.

[37:47] Rick's advice includes focusing on understanding the real clinical need and the why.

Resources:

Richard Gannotta NYU Wagner

Richard Gannotta LinkedIn

Healthcare Nation Podcast

Research to Revenue: Don Siegel on the Role of University Tech Transfer and Industry Partnerships

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Navigating the intricacies of university-industry partnerships is more important than ever in an era when colleges increasingly see their intellectual property portfolios as attractive sources of prospective revenue. Today, I'm thrilled to have Donald Siegel join us to talk about university-industry partnerships, as described in his book The Chicago Handbook of University Technology Transfer and Academic Entrepreneurship.

Don is a Foundation Professor of Public Policy and Management at Arizona State University and Co-Director of the Global Center for Technology Transfer. With a remarkable career that includes serving as Dean of the School of Business at the University at Albany, SUNY, and editing prominent journals such as the Journal of Technology Transfer, he has unrivaled knowledge of university technology transfer and academic entrepreneurship.

Don and his co-editors have prepared a thorough guidebook that synthesizes cutting-edge research and gives critical insights from experts across many fields. Today, we'll look at key themes from the book, including the evolution of technology transfer, intellectual property management systems, and how to foster an entrepreneurial culture within universities.

In This Episode:

[02:14] All of the authors are academics that have been studying Tech Transfer. They've seen the field evolve as an academic field. It's a global phenomenon and people in multiple disciplines have been studying this field.

[03:06] They decided to approach the University of Chicago Press and pitch their idea. It was a difficult sale, because they've never done a handbook or anything on tech transfer.

[04:36] It's a collection of leading edge research on the topic.

[05:04] One of the chapters is an entrepreneur's guide to the university. Open innovation is one of the important concepts.

[06:40] One of the major changes that Don has seen are people with business and entrepreneurial experience in the Tech Transfer office.

[07:39] They've moved beyond licensing and patenting with a greater focus on entrepreneurship.

[09:22] There's also a much greater appreciation of the role of technology and economic development.

[11:20] Don talks about how AUTM has changed and how they have more real world professionals with business experience. There's a strong entrepreneurial component to what Tech Transfer does.

[12:44] Tech Transfer offices also play a very important role in educating faculty and administrators about the value of Tech Transfer.

[15:01] Social returns to basic research maximize the value to the economy and society.

[16:55] Tech Transfer offices are under resourced. One of the problems is stakeholders don't understand the value.

[19:39] Don talks about using business school students to get engaged with Tech Transfer.

[26:20] We need to hire university leaders that value Tech Transfer and understand how important it is.

[28:10] Prosocial Tech Transfer and defined ways of measuring it. Interviewing and surveying faculty to understand what motivates them.

[30:53] Psychological issues and the importance of champions and leadership. Tech Transfer role models are important.

[36:47] How there is a larger interest in Tech Transfer abroad. There's a much stronger international presence.

[42:09] Immediate actions include more successful marketing of Tech Transfer within the university. The responsibility falls on the leaders. Academic entrepreneurship and messaging.

[44:39] It's also been difficult to get minorities interested in Tech Transfer as a profession.

[47:37] The three key takeaways that Don would like to highlight includes whoever manages the university needs to think of Tech Transfer as a major strategic issue.

[48:58] Tech Transfer strategy asking whether it's a priority. Set institutional goals and priorities.

[49:28] If it is a priority, the resources should reflect that.

[50:16] Which modes of tech transfer should be stressed? How should it be rewarded?

[53:39] Strategies for stressing startups.

Resources:

Donald Siegel ASU

The Chicago Handbook of University Technology Transfer and Academic Entrepreneurship

VentureWell

Science of Stories: The Storytelling Strategies Behind Successful Tech Transfer with Otto Pohl

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Have you ever thought of storytelling as a powerful business tool? In the fast-paced world of tech transfer and startups, it absolutely is. Today's episode dives deep into the importance of storytelling – what it is and how it can be your secret weapon.

We'll be joined by Otto Pohl, a storytelling guru with a fascinating career path. Otto's a former journalist published in major publications, a seasoned entrepreneur with four startups under his belt, and a communications expert for startups. He now uses his unique blend of skills to help universities translate their groundbreaking research into successful products with real-world impact.

Curious about the magic of storytelling in business? We'll learn how Otto helps tech transfer offices craft compelling narratives that resonate with investors, partners, and anyone who needs to understand the incredible work happening at universities.

But storytelling isn't just about making things sound good. We'll also explore the line between a captivating pitch and empty promises. Otto will share his insights on the Pohl Pyramid and other powerful tools to ensure your story is not just exciting, but honest and builds genuine interest.

Get ready to unlock the power of storytelling in your business! We'll discuss Otto's amazing career journey, the science behind why stories resonate, and common mistakes to avoid. This episode is packed with actionable tips and insights you won't want to miss.

In This Episode:

[02:09] Career rewrites and how journalism and entrepreneurship fit into one bucket for Otto.

[02:43] After college, he moved to Russia to work as a photojournalist. He was a New York Times Bureau photographer.

[03:17] He also discovered so many business opportunities that he quit his job to found three companies in Moscow.

[03:34] He rotated between entrepreneurship and journalism moving to several different countries.

[04:11] We learn how stories and business meet each other.

[06:21] Storytelling is deeper and bigger and more intertwined with everything we do than most of us realize. It fundamentally creates connections between events.

[07:37] From a business perspective, the story explains why your company has meaning.

[10:54] Storytelling and the startup context or pitching. Where is the line between vision and delusion?

[12:05] When we pitch something it's a story about what we think we can make happen.

[13:11] Lying about what you already have is called fraud.

[13:35] transfer professionals need to figure out what their technology can do in their portfolio and make sure there's a story about how this thing can change the world, but do it in a way that you feel will pan out.

[14:17] Otto breaks down what good storytellers do well.

[15:05] Focus on the why.

[15:31] Otto talks about the Pohl pyramid or multi-layer of why. A good storyteller knows which level of why they want to address.

[16:54] Tech transfer professionals should care about storytelling because it will help them create a better impact.

[19:05] Shining the light on your invention allows the pyramid of benefits to cascade and unfold.

[20:03] Otto shares examples of how finding and telling the right story and why your research matters has helped tech transfer offices.

[26:46] The story is what makes a new company and its product sparkle.

[27:09] Otto shares how to communicate with different stakeholders. Work from the result backwards.

[29:45] Common mistakes tech transfer offices and early stage startups make with storytelling. The academic mindset and the business mindset aren't always on the same page.

[32:39] Storytelling is still a caveman exercise satisfying fundamental human needs.

[36:08] Storytelling isn't bad, we need to shift to a customer mindset, and embrace business not academic communications.

Resources:

Otto Pohl

Otto Pohl Core Communications

Otto Pohl LinkedIn

Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind

Promote your TTO more Effectively” – August 13, 2024 – 12 pm EST

Thank you Scorpius BioManufacturing for sponsoring this episode of AUTM on the Air. Learn more at: scorpiusbiologics.com

Inclusive Innovation: Building A Diverse Future With The CI2

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Partners in Discovery: Unlocking the Potential of Research Collaborations With Gaylene Anderson

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Have you ever wondered how groundbreaking scientific discoveries make their way from the lab to the marketplace? Today, we're diving deep into the intricacies of working with industry partners, negotiating deals, managing strategic research alliances, and driving external collaborations.

Joining us today is Gaylene Anderson, who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. As Boehringer Ingelheim's US Director for Strategic Research Relationships, Gaylene is responsible for forging partnerships and pathways for external collaboration with the US Research Organization, leveraging both internal synergies and engagement with external scientific partners.

Throughout her career, Gaylene has been a champion of economic development and entrepreneurship, creating over a dozen startups and staying focused on developing relationships with investor groups and business development colleagues nationwide. In our conversation, we'll explore creating and managing partnerships, identifying scientific partners, training and support programs for researchers, and more.

In This Episode:

[02:26] If Gaylene had it to do over again, she would spend more time with the scientists to understand their world more.

[05:17] She would also spend more time on the front end before engaging with a partner.

[09:44] Tech transfer professionals should sit down with their directors and explain how they want to maximize and have the best results possible. Success breeds success.

[14:06] Before working with external partners, Gaylene has to get organized internally. She works with the scientists and department heads to understand their research needs first.

[19:30] Strategies or programs developed to foster entrepreneurship and bridge the gap to industry. She asked the dean for students interested in commercialization. She then coached these students and entered them in business competitions.

[25:12] When securing funding and investor engagement, you have to go where the opportunities and investors are.

[30:00] Budgetwise, maximize what you can. Once you have some success the money will be found to do more.

[33:39] Gaylene shares some of her experiences at Cleveland Clinic and other institutions.

[36:54] Invite tech transfer colleagues to your meetings, including them will improve your deal flow and collaborations.

[37:41] Emerging trends and shifts include people realizing that you have to be more than a licensing expert. They need to be collaboration experts.

[41:34] Common misconceptions or pitfalls when working with industry partners that tech transfer professionals should be aware of include remembering your relationships and reputation are everything. Treat each other with respect and realize not everyone knows and understands the entire contract.

[45:41] Find ways to create relationships with industry partners. Make an effort to build relationships because these contacts will be important for you someday.

Resources:

Gaylene Anderson

Gaylene Anderson LinkedIn

Scorpius Biologics

Scorpius Biologics is a sponsor of this episode.

Mastering Know-How Licensing: Strategies And Legal Insights With Wes Blakeslee

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Have you ever wondered what truly goes into the commercialization of a patented invention? Today we're exploring an often misunderstood aspect of tech transfer: the strategic licensing of know-how.

Know-how encompasses the vital information necessary or beneficial for the commercialization of a patented invention. While a patent license combines aspects of both federal and state law, a know-how license is governed solely by state law, as it lacks federal statutory protection.

To guide us through this intricate subject, we have Wes Blakeslee with us. Wes holds an Engineering Degree from Penn State University and a Law Degree from the University of Maryland School of Law. With over 15 years of experience at The Johns Hopkins University as an Associate General Counsel and later as Executive Director of Technology Transfer, Wes is a seasoned expert in intellectual property and business law. A Certified Licensing Professional, he is a frequent speaker at conferences and a consultant on intellectual property and business matters.

Join us as we dive deep into the complexities and strategic importance of know-how licensing with Wes Blakeslee.

In This Episode:

[01:45] Wes was an engineer with NASA before he became a lawyer. In 1982, he acquired a client that does research and development for the government. There are no patents for classified technology, so that's how he was introduced to "know-how" licensing.

[03:34] It means something you know that others don't. Know-how must be protected like a trade secret with steps taken to protect it.

[04:52] You don't want to patent a trade secret, because the records are public. Patented licenses can include "know-how".

[07:31] Describing "know-how" can include specifications. There's no specific protection for "know-how", so you have to describe the "know-how" and what it can and can't be used for. There are confidentiality provisions.

[09:24] Drafting a non-exclusive license for "know-how" is more simple than a non-exclusive license. It's critical in an exclusive license to make sure that you still have the right to use the information yourself. You have to be careful to define the field.

[12:19] The "know-how" license looks a lot like a patent license, except for the extra terms you have to know, and that there's no general legal protection.

[13:50] Describing the nature of the deal without releasing specifics. Process and product know-how licensing agreement.

[16:24] A lot of "know-how" is process-oriented and gets licensed on an annual basis.

[18:31] The goal of the negotiation is to give the other side everything they need, while preserving for your client everything that they need.

[22:00] Common obstacles include teaching them what they need without teaching them everything you know.

[26:49] Wes talks about the licensing for non-profits and hospitals.

[29:28] Almost every academic license will have a patent and "know-how" in the license.

[35:17] There should be discussion of "know-how" in the advanced licensing course. AUTM is a great resource! Licensing Executives Society is also a good resource.

Resources:

Wes Blakeslee Website

Wes Blakeslee LinkedIn

Licensing Executives Society

Building Not Burning Bridges: Strengthening Faculty Ties for Better Tech Transfer With David McClure

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Have you ever wondered what really powers the success of tech transfer offices at universities? It’s not just the groundbreaking research or innovative technologies—it’s the relationships behind the scenes.

In today’s episode, we’re highlighting the importance of cultivating strong relationships with faculty members. These connections not only facilitate technology disclosures but also significantly boost the marketing reach and appeal of research to industry partners.

Joining us to shed light on this topic is David McClure, the Managing Director of Licensing at the Office of Research Commercialization, Texas Tech University System. David brings a wealth of experience and insight into why fostering strong faculty relationships is essential for the success of a tech transfer office.

We’ll be discussing effective strategies for initiating and maintaining engagement with faculty, the challenges and nuances of making tough decisions about researchers' inventions, and the best communication practices for managing expectations. Plus, we’ll explore how relationship-building can be seamlessly integrated into these efforts.

In This Episode:

[01:21] The importance of strong relationships with faculty for tech transfer success. We have to create a system of mutual trust where each of us will do our respective jobs.

[02:27] No invention has ever been licensed without the full support of the researcher. The feedback is very important for success.

[04:03] The key is communication. When an invention disclosure comes in it gets assigned to a licensee manager and they carry it through until a license is negotiated. Making the process transparent and showing every step to a faculty member along the way.

[05:21] They make decisions on new inventions in 60 days, but they try to do it in 30 days.

[06:48] Outsourcing assessments to a third party makes the researchers feel like everyone's on the same team.

[08:45] Maintaining engagement is important. They get a list of new faculty hires. They give them a visit and ask what they are interested in and establish a relationship from day one.

[13:42] Communicating every step along the way is an effective communication strategy. Showing your work and letting the researchers know what you're doing on their behalf is very helpful.

[15:02] They also use LinkedIn as a success story communication tool.

[19:48] They make it easy and affordable for faculty members to license their technology. The industry appreciates customer validation.

[21:03] It takes years to get a patent issued and to take a technology to market. It's a long process where you should take as many shots as possible. David and his team preach patience to new faculty members. They also use colleague examples to demonstrate the process.

[22:52] The role of training and professional development in preparing TTO staff and faculty for successful collaboration and commercialization. David tries to get them plugged into the ecosystem as quickly as possible.

[27:21] How strong faculty relationships impact the overall success and growth of a tech transfer office in the long term.

[28:12] Advice for tech transfer professionals includes critical management and building a portfolio over time. Start small and build over time. Show your work. Be patient.

Resources:

David McClure Texas Tech University

David McClure LinkedIn

Holistic Strategies In Academia-Industry Collaboration With Gayathri Srinivasan, Shahila Christie, And John D. Wilson

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Industry-University Partnerships are crucial for fostering innovation, addressing societal challenges, and driving economic growth. By working together, universities and industries can leverage their unique strengths to create solutions that benefit society as a whole. Today, I'm excited to be joined by an amazing panel of guests, Dr. Gayathri Srinivasan, Shahila Christie, and John D. Wilson, to discuss taking a holistic approach to these partnerships.

Dr. Gayathri Srinivasan is the Executive Director of MIT Corporate Relations, a position she has held since the beginning of February 2024. As Executive Director, Gayathri leads the growth of the Industrial Liaison Program (ILP) and the Startup Exchange, building on a roster of over 200 member companies and forging impactful connections between global business leaders and MIT faculty.

John D. Wilson is the Director of Academic Contracting at GlaxoSmithKline. John's responsibilities include aligning industrial and academic research to ensure that science, technology, and people collaborate to benefit scientific development. John sits within a research externalization group that liaisons with all research units and therapeutic areas across his organization, as well as globally.

Shahila Christie began her career in academic research focusing on small molecule drug discovery and development. Recognizing the potential for commercialization, Shahila transitioned to the entrepreneurial space by co-founding a spin-off company leveraging her research. She has consulted for university-based startups and led clinical efforts for a medical diagnostics company in oncology. In her current role at Portal Innovations, she supports the growth and development of early-stage life science technologies.

I’m excited to have Gayathri, Shahila, and John with us today to talk about these crucial partnerships.

In This Episode:

[03:02] Holistic Industry University partnership is looking at the entire Institute and enterprise for the collaboration. Research, innovation, students, and education.

[05:25] It represents a collaborative effort that spans beyond the simple technology licensing. It's a multifaceted approach that is designed to nurture.

[06:30] Approaching things as a good partner who wants to collaborate and develop science is critical.

[07:19] Identifying common goals is key for collaboration. Understanding where partners are looking for opportunities and what the challenges are is very important.

[09:56] When addressing significant societal challenges for the public good. look at what your company is good at and what the academic is good at and be proactive about reaching out and solving the issues.

[12:09] It's important to be proactive, not reactive.

[13:58] Industries are well versed in knowing where the market needs are. Universities should tap into this space to leverage their capabilities and drive Innovation forward.

[16:43] The expertise is in the academic centers and pharma is really good at developing drugs. Cutting-edge technology is coming out of academic centers and working together is the best choice for creating new drugs and solutions.

[21:23] Startups in the university ecosystem are so important for this type of development.

[24:01] Best practices for creating and maintaining communication during these crucial partnerships.

[25:33] Having a dedicated point person to champion between the two institutions is key.

[27:53] Looking for ways to leverage federal money, university input, and matching dollars from industry to develop future scientists.

[30:44] Look at societal problems and which Industries and companies are suited to solve those problems.

[34:03] We talk about sharing information to develop better technology.

[34:42] Shahila talks about how VC firms analyze investment opportunities. They evaluate university partnerships through a multifaceted lens that includes assessing the technology's potential and the university's tech transfer capabilities.

[36:45] VC firms play a vital role in bridging the gap between university technologies and their successful commercializations.

[39:17] Key considerations for pharma companies evaluating partnerships include alignment.

[44:33] For large societal questions, large partnerships and collaborations will be the answer. Government support, university research and innovation, industry collaboration and support, and the market.

[45:54] Science is moving quickly and entering a transformative era. Rapid innovation is driving pharma to look more at early stage technology.

[47:11] If the academic industry and VC work together, there will be an exponential increase in our capabilities.

Resources:

Dr. Gayathri Srinivasan Executive Director of MIT Corporate Relations

Dr. Gayathri Srinivasan LinkedIn

John D. Wilson, MS, RTTP LinkedIn

Shahila Christie LinkedIn

Opportunity Thinking with Pam Henderson: Innovation, Organizational Growth, and the Commercialization of Emerging Technologies

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 07:00:00 +0000

We are focusing on innovation, organizational growth, and the commercialization of emerging technologies with a very special guest, Pam Henderson, a renowned author, entrepreneur, CEO, and expert in business and innovation strategy.

As the founder of NewEdge, a growth strategy firm, Pam leads the charge in identifying and anchoring growth opportunities. Her extensive experience spans both academia and industry, with her work featured in prestigious outlets like the Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, and NPR.

This is a wonderful episode for anyone with an entrepreneurial mindset. We learn how Pam’s academic work eventually led to her establishing NewEdge. She also developed the opportunity thinking approach, which involves getting clear on how ideas will serve the market. We learn about defining what an opportunity is and more about turning an idea into a strategic business opportunity.

In This Episode:

[01:29] Pam's journey from academia to founding NewEdge. She began as a professor for Carnegie Mellon. She was invited to help commercialize early stage technologies which eventually led to Pam founding NewEdge.

[03:03] Pam developed the opportunity thinking approach. A lot of ideas don't land in the market. Getting clear on how our ideas will serve the market leads to better ideas.

[04:32] Defining opportunity first increases the odds for success. We get excited about ideas, but defining the broader opportunity gives us ideas about what will actually work.

[05:22] You have to define what an opportunity is.

[07:06] Get clear on the need, way to create value, and conditions.

[08:38] Opportunity Thinking™ taps into six sources: market forces, business models, technology, organizations, environments, and design. Before the iPod, there were digital ways of gathering up music.

[09:33] Apple created a business model that allowed us to get singular songs as opposed to entire albums. The larger opportunity was to build out the success of these different sources.

[10:53] Sometimes we need to take a step back and go slow to go fast. Look at the opportunity and then build the technologies accordingly.

[11:27] Pam shares an example of an innovation partnership that led to cooling shirts made from coconut polymer fibers.

[15:25] Harley-Davidson's first electric vehicle. Staying true to the opportunity leads to bigger ideas in the market.

[17:16] We learn about the voice of the ecosystem.

[20:07] Common strategies companies face when trying to implement opportunity thinking and how to overcome them.

[22:43] People confuse risk aversion with uncertainty aversion. We can work on uncertainty aversion by getting people more familiar with opportunities.

[24:15] Pam talks about the importance of culture. Working on culture is one of the things that has made her the most proud in her organization.

[25:06] A consultant really helped them identify their values. Make your values interesting and true to who you are. They love people who are driven and continually improving. Other values include team first and grounded provocateurs. Teachable trust builders or being a teacher and a learner at all times.

[28:46] Co-innovation is one of the emerging trends companies should take notice of. Companies are going to need to collaborate more to make big changes.

Resources:

Pam Henderson NewEdge

NewEdge

Pam Henderson LinkedIn

Killing Ideas - You can kill an idea, you can't kill an opportunity

From Ideas to Innovation: A Conversation with Levi C. Maaia and Noah Mark About The Pathways to Invention Documentary

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 07:00:00 +0000

I’m thrilled to have Levi C. Maaia and Noah Mark to talk about the Pathways to Invention documentary. Noah Mark is the President of Maaia Mark Productions and Levi is the Director of the film.

This 60-minute documentary explores the age-old question of whether inventors are born or made. Through up-close profiles, it highlights the impactful contributions of inventors across various disciplines, including biotech, medical diagnostics and prosthetics, sustainable agriculture, food production, software development, and materials science.

All featured inventors are recipients of the prestigious Lemelson-MIT Student Prize. In this film, Levi and Noah uncover the journeys of inventors across various fields, shedding light on the pathways to creativity, resilience, and success.

This documentary was produced by Maaia Mark Productions in association with the Lemelson-MIT Program, with funding from The Lemelson Foundation, MIT's School of Engineering, and the University of California at Berkeley.

In our conversation, Levi and Noah share the inspiration for the documentary, common traits of inventors, and how education can foster young minds. We also discuss the significant challenges inventors have overcome, the recurring theme of collaboration and mentorship, and how the inventors were chosen to showcase.

Additionally, we explore how personal experiences shape an inventor's journey, how technology has made inventing more accessible, and the intersection of invention and social impact.

In This Episode:

[02:22] Noah and Levi were curious about people's ability to shape the world around them and the maker movement.

[03:09] They were inspired by all of the makers in Cuba who have no choice but to be innovative because of the embargo.

[04:06] The idea changed to a broader lens about inventors from coast to coast in the US.

[05:02] All of the inventors in the film were at some point recipients of the prestigious Lemelson-MIT Student Prize.

[07:00] The goal was to demystify the term inventor. In real life, it's usually a team effort. Many attempts and failures are also involved.

[08:06] The story of invention is really a story of overcoming failures and embracing them.

[09:02] Are inventors born or made? A little bit of both. There has to be Spark. An inventor needs to be a self-starter who sees a problem and wants to solve it.

[10:01] Inventors do need a supportive environment and resources.

[12:53] Pig crushing is the number one challenge faced for pork producers. The solution was to create a wearable alarm for the mother.

[16:21] Many of the inventions are in very diverse areas and they don't have to be a tech application.

[16:53] Collaboration and mentorship. Fostering or creating a network will lead to innovation.

[18:11] We talk about partnerships and recycling plastics on a smaller scale. Noah and Mark share how they love the resilience featured in this story.

[20:02] Nicole Black from inspiration from her own story with hearing loss. Personal experience has a profound impact on an inventor's journey.

[22:31] Two of their inventors were using machine learning at the time.

[24:23] They were surprised by how much perseverance is required to bring something to fruition.

[29:03] You have to be open to failing and confident to learn.

[31:02] Innovation driving positive change in society. We can innovate and solve the challenges of the future.

[33:00] There is no problem that is too overwhelming to attempt to solve.

[35:55] They are also working on a series about innovators. Allowing hopeful optimistic people who want to make the world a better place a way to connect with each other.

Resources:

Pathways to Invention

Levi C. Maaia

Levi C. Maaia LinkedIn

Noah Mark IMDB

Noah Mark on X

Innovating Across Borders: The Power of Entrepreneur in Residence Programs With Steve Tobocman

Wed, 29 May 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Global Entrepreneur in Residence Programs are revolutionizing the startup world by providing crucial support to international founders. We'll discuss the impact of these programs to enable immigrants to innovate and become entrepreneurs and founders in the US startup space.

I'm thrilled to be joined by Steve Tobocman for this discussion. Steve is a leader in community and economic development, with a special focus on immigrant inclusion. Since 2010, he's been the executive director of Global Detroit, an organization dedicated to driving growth and prosperity in Detroit and Southeast Michigan through immigrant-inclusive strategies.

Before his work at Global Detroit, Steve served as an elected representative in Michigan's State House. There, he championed initiatives to support immigrant communities, including legislation to protect immigrants from exploitation and advocating for equitable access to education and services.

In addition to his leadership roles, Steve is a partner at New Solutions Group, LLC, a Detroit-based consulting firm. He also co-directs the Michigan Political Leadership Program at Michigan State University. Steve holds a Juris Doctor from the University of Michigan Law School and a Master's in Public Policy from UM’s Ford School of Public Policy.

In This Episode:

[02:09] Global Entrepreneur Residence Programs are a solution to America's immigration laws which don't include a startup visa. These programs connect founders with part-time employment at or by universities so they can get an uncapped H-1B visa.

[03:34] A variety of STEM founders take an H-1B job and then work on their startup outside of this job. The time in the program is as short or as long as they need to advance their startup or company.

[04:17] This levels the playing field for American innovation. It allows early stage startups to be launched here from all over the world.

[04:52] The first program started in 2014, at University of Massachusetts Boston. In the first 10 years, they supported 81 founders who raised 1.5 billion in venture capital.

[05:20] There's about 10 programs. The program at Global Detroit has worked at about six different universities. More programs are also planned to be launched in the future.

[05:49] Global Detroit started in 2010. It was a vision of the philanthropic community. Funders pooled resources as the new economy initiative.

[06:27] They wanted to leverage and harness the economic driver of immigration.

[07:37] Over the last 15 years, they've seen a variety of new players in the immigration space that interact with economic development.

[07:54] These are local economic development agencies that realize that immigrants are important to the US economy.

[08:37] Global Detroit is a leader in the Global Entrepreneur in Residence Programs.

[09:11] 72% of all the electrical engineering students in America are international students.

[10:03] Steve talks about Chening Duker, a computer science student from Ghana and Britain who worked for a startup, before starting his own and launching Goodpluck, a startup that brings the freshest produce to your door.

[14:11] The biggest challenge has been lack of awareness.

[18:20] Steve talks about the role of these programs to attract talent. California and other states are trying to adopt the model. There's a lot of growth. The programs have created a competitive advantage for Michigan.

[21:14] Key considerations for tech transfer offices to leverage these programs include keeping in mind that International students contribute disproportionately to the ecosystem.

[26:04] Navigating the complexities to provide support for international founders. Read The Startup Visa or contact Global Detroit.

[27:39] These programs not only provide a Visa they also provide other aspects of support.

[34:21] The mission is to support the success of local programs. We believe America is stronger through immigration and robust integration.

[39:58] A global EIR strategy is a strategy to build an innovation ecosystem and the startup community is critical to the future. We can always be the global design leader. Michigan is investing in the global EIR program.

Resources:

Steve Tobocman, Executive Director Global Detroit

Steve Tobocman LinkedIn

Goodpluck

The Startup Visa: U.S. Immigration Visa Guide for Startups and Founders

Island Innovators: Tech Transfer and IP in Jamaica With Loreen Walker

Wed, 22 May 2024 07:00:00 +0000

We're diving into the world of intellectual property and technology transfer in Jamaica. Our special guest for this episode is Loreen Walker, a trailblazer in this field. Loreen played a crucial role in establishing the Jamaica Intellectual Property Office (JIPO) back in 2002, and she's here to share her wealth of experiences and insights with us.

Loreen Walker is a distinguished Attorney-at-Law with over 40 years of experience. She has worked across the private sector, public sector, and academia, specializing in areas such as commercial, corporate, labor, pension, insurance, intellectual property, and sports law.

In 2002, Loreen became the first Head of JIPO, collaborating closely with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) to solidify JIPO's foundation. After her tenure at JIPO ended in 2005, she joined the Jamaica Coffee Industry Board (Regulatory Division), known for the world-famous Jamaica Blue Mountain® coffee.

Loreen then moved to The University of the West Indies, where she advised on intellectual property and technology transfer matters. Now retired from the university, she is focused on developing tech transfer services for the Jamaican public.

In this episode, we explore Loreen's journey into tech transfer, her leadership at JIPO, the challenges and strategies she encountered, and her advisory role at The University of the West Indies. We'll also discuss the unique opportunities and challenges that Caribbean nations, including Jamaica, face in commercializing intellectual property and fostering innovation-driven entrepreneurship.

In This Episode:

[02:28] Loreen shares how she got her start in tech transfer. She was exposed to tech transfer while head of the Jamaica Intellectual Property Office.

[03:19] People in Jamaica and the Caribbean are very creative because of all of the different influences that they've had. She's always been interested in making that creativity work.

[05:12] Before JIPO there were bits and pieces of IP protection through government offices. There were things like copyrights and trademarks.

[06:37] Loreen talks about challenges getting JIPO up and running. In the early days, the knowledge gap was a huge problem. Working with WIPO helped close that gap.

[07:54] Jamaica has only been a sovereign country since 1962. There were old colonial laws on the books. Getting the legislation in place for IP and tech transfer was challenging.

[09:41] Effective strategies included utilizing the courses that WIPO offered.

[12:59] It's also challenging to keep up with all the new changes including challenges brought about by AI.

[14:18] Tech transfer is more than something that universities need to know about. As a small country, Jamaica needs to reach out to the people, because there are people who are doing innovative things.

[18:26] There's a huge connection between innovation and entrepreneurship.

[20:02] There's a lot of work being done in biotech on the medicine side and the agricultural side.

[24:07] A big challenge is tapping into the global commercialization opportunities. Jamaica needs to consciously become a path of the global commercialization ecosystem.

[25:46] They need to be seen as a company of products that can benefit society.

[27:05] IP has always been seen as a very important area for the Caribbean and Jamaica.

[28:39] IP is the new area of law that protects innovation and inventions. Resources need to be invested in the protection of IP.

[29:37] In order to keep on top of things we have to accept that we have to be lifelong learners.

[30:55] Another challenge is how each country has different laws about IP. We need to look at a more global IP system.

[33:26] One of the most rewarding things for Loreen is establishing an organization that is growing and helping people. It's also being able to share and give advice.

Resources:

Loreen Walker AUTM

Jamaica Intellectual Property Office (JIPO)

World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)

Jamaica Blue Mountain® coffee

Mental Health And Neurodiversity In The Workplace With Ed Ergenzinger And Haley Moss

Wed, 15 May 2024 07:00:00 +0000

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to discuss mental health and neurodiversity in the workplace. We’ll explore the unique challenges and opportunities faced by neurodivergent individuals in traditional work environments.

Neurodivergent individuals, including those with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, dyslexia, and more, often face significant obstacles. From navigating social interactions to managing their mental health, these individuals encounter challenges that can impact their well-being and professional success. However, these challenges also present opportunities for growth and innovation. Neurodiverse individuals bring unique perspectives and skills, enriching workplaces with their creativity and problem-solving abilities.

Joining us today are two experts, Ed Ergenzinger and Haley Moss, to discuss neurodiversity, mental health, and their integration into the workplace.

Ed Ergenzinger is a patent lawyer, neuroscientist, and adjunct professor whose personal journey with bipolar disorder has shaped his advocacy for mental health awareness and education. After experiencing the challenges associated with bipolar disorder firsthand, Ed's resilience led him to return to law practice and become a vocal advocate for mental health. With over 20 years of experience in patent law and a deep understanding of neuroscience, he offers a unique perspective on neurodiversity and mental health in the workplace.

Haley Moss is an attorney, author, and passionate advocate for neurodiversity and disability inclusion. Diagnosed with autism at three years old, Haley has become a leading voice in advocating for individuals with disabilities. Licensed to practice law in Florida, she focuses on speaking engagements, writing, and consulting to make workplaces more inclusive for people with disabilities. Through her books and articles, Haley sheds light on neurodiversity in professional settings, drawing from her own experiences to drive meaningful change.

In This Episode:

[03:16] Haley says that she got into advocacy by accident. She was asked by a university to speak on a panel when she was 13 years old. She agreed because the panel was in Orlando, Florida and she wanted to go to Disney World.

[04:50] After speaking, she realized she was making a difference. She's now been advocating for neurodiversity for half of her life.

[05:27] In 2019 and 2020, Ed had a severe manic episode that swung into a deep treatment resistant depression. He couldn't work. He lost his current position, and he was hospitalized.

[06:16] When he got out of the hospital, he went on disability. The severe manic episode resulted in his bipolar I diagnosis. With the correct diagnosis, he could look back and see the cycles.

[06:45] After getting out of depression and returning to work, Ed knew that it was important to tell his story and become involved in advocacy. He wanted to prevent stigma and prevent others from going through what he went through.

[07:17] One size fits all policies are often the problem, not the solution to mental health in the workplace. Flexibility is key.

[08:49] Better communication is also a solution. It's good to offer a mix of ways to connect. Provide context so information makes sense.

[11:19] Knowing how to communicate is huge. It's also important to cultivate empathetic leadership.

[13:48] Lawyer Assistance Programs help lawyers, judges, and law students who have struggles with mental health or substance abuse. We need to build resources that are non-judgmental and don't have stigma around them.

[15:59] Some approaches for supporting mental health in the workplace include seminars and educational programs and appointing directors of well-being.

[18:43] Neurodiverse individuals often have unique strengths. We need to support people without burning them out by holding them to reasonable and attainable goals.

[24:04] Being flexible and dealing with each situation as it comes helps support neurodivergent individuals at work.

[24:42] Accommodations organizations can make to address mental health needs include having mental health days as part of PTO and looking at specific needs for individuals.

[27:40] It's important to advocate for yourself in seeking accommodations that will benefit you. Find your pain points and go from there.

[34:50] Fostering culture and support for neurodiversity comes down to education and awareness.

[38:31] Haley shares her journey towards self-acceptance.

[45:41] Ed talks about fostering a culture of inclusivity where "masking" isn't necessary for neurodiverse individuals. Embrace the difference.

[51:32] We've made strides in awareness and advocacy after the pandemic. There's also been an uptick in mental health advocacy initiatives. Telehealth has also expanded.

[55:33] Some positive trends include the increase in education and advocacy.

[59:22] Haley is looking forward to a time when the stigma is no longer there, and we don't even have to have these conversations. She wants to be at a point of understanding and inclusion.

Resources:

Ed Ergenzinger

Ed Ergenzinger LinkedIn

Celebrating 50 Years of Innovation: AUTM's Journey from SUPA to Today with Teri Willey and Stephen Atkinson

Wed, 08 May 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Welcome to a very special milestone episode of AUTM on the Air! Today, we mark a significant moment – our 200th episode, and we're kicking off the celebration of AUTM's 50th anniversary.

Over the past five decades, AUTM has been at the forefront of advancing technology transfer and innovation, bringing together professionals from academia, industry, and government to drive economic growth and societal impact. In this episode, we reflect on the remarkable journey of AUTM, from its early beginnings to the influential organization it is today.

Joining us are two distinguished guests who have been integral in shaping AUTM's history: Teri Willey, past President of AUTM in 1996, and Stephen Atkinson, a past President of SUPA, the precursor to AUTM. Their leadership paved the way for many of the organization's transformative initiatives.

It's an honor to have Teri and Stephen here to reflect on AUTM’s journey over the years. Let's dive into the conversation and explore the rich history of this incredible organization.

In This Episode:

[02:08] Stephen has worked extensively capturing the early days of AUTM. He shares some background on how SUPA was founded and its initial objectives.

[03:13] In the 1970s, there were a lot of leaders wondering about the usefulness of supporting basic research.

[05:18] The Golden Fleece awards were about fleecing the taxpayers for frivolous things. The social sciences were a target for this.

[06:12] At the time, there was a lot of conversation on what they were getting out of the investment for research.

[07:00] Millions of dollars were being spent on basic research and there needed to be a way to share with people what they were getting out of the investment.

[09:47] Stephen went to a meeting at O'Hare Airport in 1975. The talks were all over the place about technology. This meeting was one of the most important parts of the beginning of SUPA (Society of University Patent Administrators).

[12:50] When you join SUPA or AUTM, you get an amazing community.

[16:58] Challenges come with visibility. Teri joined SUPA in 1985.

[17:21] One of Teri's first challenges at Northwestern University was that a lot of faculty weren't interested. She had to explain that research matters and your innovation could be partnered with another company.

[18:08] Resources were also another challenge. Everything was filed on paper.

[21:45] Educational institutions thought they shouldn't be doing business with businesses.

[22:09] Another challenge was approving the attorney fees.

[23:22] When the name shift from SUPA to AUTM took place it raised the discussion. IP is critical, but it also needs to be managed to capture its value. Management is also being savvy about business development.

[27:37] The name change was done in a very democratic way.

[31:36] Strategic planning was part of creating the structure of AUTM and member guidelines. Teri wants to see more industry members than academic members to get better faster.

[37:08] What makes a good tech transfer professional?

[43:34] Teri talks about how the membership audit helped shape the organizations identity. Validation and having the ability to compare work were also valuable. Managing AI, knowing where AUTM should take the lead, and being able to partner are also important.

[47:55] The community is one of the greatest achievements of AUTM. Any product that has made it to the marketplace and benefited the public is a tremendous accomplishment.

[53:31] It's important that these ideas reach the public and having a community is critical, because it takes a long time.

Resources:

Teri Willey

Teri Willey LinkedIn

The Open Science Revolution: Impact and Opportunities in Technology Transfer with Meghan Hayes and Andrew Wichmann

Wed, 01 May 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Open science advocates for the openness of data, methods, and tools to make scientific research scalable and publicly accessible, with the goal of enhancing research and making it more accessible to a wider audience.

Today, we're discussing the Year of Open Science and its implications for patenting, licensing, and technology transfer strategies. Recent mandates from federal agencies, along with a growing emphasis on transparency and collaboration, are profoundly transforming the landscape of scientific research and innovation.

We are joined by Meghan Hayes, Associate Director of Business Development and Licensing at Carnegie Mellon University. Meghan plays a pivotal role in protecting and disseminating intellectual property arising from university research.

We are also joined by Andrew Wichmann, Senior Intellectual Property and Licensing Manager for Digital Technology at Johns Hopkins Technology Ventures, or JHTV. Andrew is involved in patent strategy, open source strategy, technology transactions, and portfolio management at JHTV.

In This Episode:

[01:51] 2023 was deemed the Year of Open Science by the White House to ensure free, immediate, and equitable access to publicly funded research.

[02:13] A memo was sent to federal agencies to update their public access policies to make data and other resources accessible.

[03:09] Many people credit the rapid development of COVID-19 vaccines to the sharing of information.

[03:48] Meghan talks about patent protection and open source and finding strategies that work. We need to understand what open source code does and if any part is protected or needs to be shared openly.

[06:11] Subject matter has an influence on the information shared. Data will be published faster. Source code and licensing also needs to be looked at.

[09:33] Changes that intersect with traditional research terms and conditions like Bayh-Dole provisions.

[13:03] We have established IP protections in place. We want to drive and foster innovation. There is no one proper strategy for dissemination.

[14:24] The end game is for promoting innovation.

[15:09] There are a lot more questions about open science requirements. There's also a slight impact on IP disclosure numbers. We can increase educational outreach.

[17:09] Open source tools have made progress faster. It also makes licensing a code base more complicated.

[20:06] This is another detail to be mindful of in the industry. It's also an opportunity to be more creative. There are also dual licensing models.

[23:23] Misconceptions and misunderstandings include people thinking this will end technology as we know it. Open source has been around for years. It's not as new as people fear.

[24:35] Metrics are going to have to evolve and adjust.

[29:44] Proactive steps include open source being integrated for a long time, so the requirements don't feel that new. It's seen as a tech transfer win.

[34:34] How the relationship between academic leadership and TTOs is evolving includes a needed shift in mindset and a role to educate on what is a tech transfer win and being open source.

[36:00] John Hopkins recently made a large investment in the Artificial Data Science and Artificial Intelligence Institute.

[37:15] Meghan and Andrew are optimistic about open source fostering scientific innovation.

Resources:

Meghan Hayes Center for Technology Transfer and Enterprise Creation

Meghan Hayes LinkedIn

2023 is the Year of Open Science

Johns Hopkins Technology Ventures

Advancing Applied Research in Portugal: A Discussion with IPN's José Ricardo Aguilar

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Diverse perspectives from around the globe help us discover new and innovative ideas in the world of technology transfer. Today, I’m speaking with José Ricardo Aguilar, a key figure in the Knowledge and Valorisation Department at Instituto Pedro Nunes (IPN). Established in 1991 through an initiative by the University of Coimbra, IPN is a private non-profit organization that promotes innovation and technology transfer, bridging the gap between the scientific and technological community and the production sector.

Since 2002, José has been instrumental in promoting the use of the IP system within IPN's innovation ecosystem. He offers vital support to researchers and entrepreneurs, helping them grasp the fundamentals of IP and facilitating technology transfer. Furthermore, since 2011, he has served as an invited lecturer at the Universidade de Coimbra School of Pharmacy, sharing his IP expertise with graduate and master's students.

His active involvement extends to various advisory committees, including the EPO Standing Advisory Committee on Patent Information and Documentation since 2018, and both the EUIPO Observatory SME Expert Group and the EARTO Legal Experts Working Group since 2019. José’s responsibilities also include providing legal support to ESA Space Solutions Portugal, hosted by IPN, and contributing as a researcher at the SPARC – Space Law Research Center at Universidade Nova de Lisboa.

In our conversation, José illuminates how IPN is driving forward applied research, fostering entrepreneurship, and nurturing tech-based startups in Coimbra, Portugal.

In This Episode:

[02:44] The tech transfer landscape in Portugal. For a long time Portugal was a closed country to technology and companies, but they are catching up.

[03:51] Challenges include protecting the results of global collaborations.

[05:07] The Portuguese government has been focusing on collaborations with key entities of R&D and promotion of tech transfer activities. They've also received special funding. There's also a development of widespread incubators all over the country.

[07:08] Key factors contributing to their success include learning from much more developed entities, which helps to avoid obstacles and go directly to a more developed process.

[08:30] IPN and how it contributes directly to tech transfer in Portugal. It's a private nonprofit that was created by the University of Coimbra, which is one of the oldest universities in Europe.

[08:59] IPN is known for applied research in their dedicated lab and business incubators.

[09:50] They've also been a big part of raising awareness for the topic of IP.

[10:50] How regulating bodies affect the landscape and culture of IP. The Portuguese Innovation Agency has a trend of supporting and launching initiatives for the promotion of tech transfer.

[13:34] IPN has established collaborations and partnerships with national and international entities. They are a networking agency. They are widely known inside and outside of the EU. They've had interactions with Brazil, Africa, and Middle Eastern Countries.

[15:24] Key initiatives focused on improving patent information accessibility and usability include having a strategy for communication and documentation. They are enhancing procedures for better public outreach. The EPO is focused on an assessment of global needs.

[16:59] José became involved in IP when he received an invitation to be part of a project launched by the patent office.

[18:12] The ESA Space Solutions Portugal is one of the most demanding projects at IPN. They are a business Innovation Center and they promote and support the launch of new space businesses. They are also ambassadors for their partnerships and technology brokers.

[21:26] Common misconceptions among researchers and entrepreneurs can be a result of lack of knowledge. Education and sharing information with future entrepreneurs is a huge goal and task for IPN.

[24:01] José shares a story about a change in IP law a few years ago. They now have a provisional application.

Resources:

José Ricardo Aguilar LinkedIn

Instituto Pedro Nunes

Innovation Across Borders: Rodrigo del Canto on Global Technology Transfer

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In the industry of technology transfer, diverse perspectives from around the world not only help us understand how things work in other countries but also provide fresh ideas for our own organizations. Joining us today is Rodrigo del Canto, Director of Technology Transfer at iCono UDD in Santiago, Chile.

Rodrigo del Canto is a seasoned professional in technology transfer and innovation, holding key roles at iCono UDD. With a background in law and public policy, Rodrigo extensively contributes to academia as a professor at Universidad del Desarrollo. He is actively involved in institutional committees focusing on intellectual property, R&D commercialization, and entrepreneurship ecosystems.

Today, we explore how iCono UDD has been instrumental in promoting innovation and facilitating technology transfer in Chile. We dive into specific project initiatives and their impact. Another discussion point will be iCono UDD's engagement with international partners.

We uncover the key ingredients for successful international collaborations in the field of technology transfer. We also look ahead at trends and technologies on the horizon that could significantly shape the future of technology transfer, both in Chile and globally.

In This Episode:

[02:04] iCono UDD stands out for its client focused approach and adaptability. They integrate innovation and entrepreneurship within an ecosystem that fosters collaboration.

[03:01] Rodrigo shares initiatives like mentorship programs for startups, intellectual property licensing, and collaborations with companies to solve specific challenges.

[03:47] They're also particularly proud of a collaboration with their former President Sebastian Pinera who was killed in a helicopter accident.

[04:16] iCono UDD is a bridge and facilitator for universities, governments, and other collaborators.

[05:06] They want the innovation developed in their University relevant and applicable to industry and society.

[05:46] They have a variety of KPIs for their tech transfer projects, including the numbers of patents, licenses assigned, and the number of Industry collaboration projects. General impact also matters.

[06:40] They have relationships with International universities such as UC Davis and Georgia Tech. This allows the R&D teams to expand their level of capabilities.

[07:37] UC Davis has an International Center established in Chile. This has allowed iCono UDD to send several of their professors to California. Other staff has also participated in training programs for entrepreneurship, tech transfer, and intellectual property.

[08:54] They've linked with the science school, the architectural school, and the engineering school at UCD.

[09:16] Rodrigo shares what he feels are the key ingredients for successful international collaborations in the field of technology transfer.

[10:08] Trends include artificial intelligence and sustainability.

[12:11] Driving innovation and being recognized in the technology transfer ecosystem and having a passion for work and being recognized for their contributions is a goal of iCono UDD.

Resources:

iCono UDD Technology Transfer

Rodrigo del Canto Huerta LinkedIn

UC Davis Chile: An Ally For Chilean Universities

Innovate, Navigate, Communicate: Dr. Sheila Kadura on Transforming Policy into Tech Transfer Triumphs

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0000

The influence of Washington D.C. corridor issues on tech transfer (technology transfer) operations significantly affects tech transfer professionals in several key ways. From navigating the regulatory environments of compliance and IP to funding, to ethical considerations, there’s a lot to unpack when it comes to translating policy into practice. I’m excited to talk with Dr. Sheila Kadura as she shares her wealth of knowledge and experience on tech transfer and regulatory policy.

Dr. Sheila Kadura serves as Associate General Counsel at the University of Texas System, where she is responsible for a broad range of intellectual property matters. Her areas of expertise include patents, copyrights, trademarks, trade secrets, sponsored research, clinical trials, and the commercialization and licensing of technology.

Active both locally and nationally in the intellectual property community, Dr. Kadura contributes significantly to its development and networking. She holds a position on the Executive Board as the Mentorship Chair for the Honorable Lee Yeakel Intellectual Property Inn of Court. Additionally, she serves as the Sponsorship & Finance Advisor for the Texas Chapter of ChIPs, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing and connecting women in technology, law, and policy.

In This Episode:

[02:11] Effective strategies for navigating favorable policy changes to support tech transfer. It's important to have open lines of communication with all of the different involved institutions.

[03:18] With open lines of communication, Dr. Kadura can ask about individual pain points and share information about policy changes.

[04:35] Underestimated challenges include explaining the process to people. Tech transfer is a positive thing for everyone involved, but the nuances can be complex.

[06:10] Universities and the government do not have the resources to take intellectual property and turn it into a product. This is why patents and partnerships are so important. Research is different from testing, perfecting, and manufacturing a product.

[07:30] It's important to communicate with the licensee about how regulation will impact them with the development of a product.

[09:00] Emerging technologies and how to best protect intellectual property. Is this something we can patent? Or protected by copyright? This will influence how it's licensed.

[11:00] Bridging the gap between legal intricacies and scientific innovation includes explaining why the law matters and how to protect the property.

[12:27] Dr. Kadura talks about mentoring and still practicing the law. She also likes to point out ways that innovation that's coming out of the system is helping the world.

[15:28] We learn about strategies that help foster a culture of innovation within universities and research institutions. Most of this happens at the university level. Success stories help illustrate the effect of innovation. Training and engaging more faculty is also used.

[17:05] There are a lot of questions about the changes in march-in rights. The negative effect on tech transfer could be that licensees are less willing to work with us.

[19:16] There will also continue to be a lot of activity around AI. The US patent office recently issued its guidance on ai-enabled inventions. There will also be a lot of regulation around data use.

[19:51] The most pressing priorities for tech transfer professionals include protecting and growing the tech transfer ecosystem for those of us who believe that tech transfer is good. This includes having the ability to identify the things that result in less tech transfer and less licensing.

[21:10] Keep your government regulation people informed and relate it back to the whole goal of higher education.

Resources:

Sheila Kadura Associate General Counsel The University of Texas System

Sheila Kadura LinkedIn

EDI Guide: Nine Points to Consider for Fostering Greater Inclusion in Innovation

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0000

A Vision for Tomorrow: Yoichi Oshima on IP, Tech Transfer, and Innovation Analysis

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 07:00:00 +0000

In the world of technology transfer, listening to diverse perspectives from across the globe isn't merely about understanding alternative methodologies; it's fundamentally about unlocking fresh ideas that can be integrated into our own organizations.

Today, I have the pleasure of speaking with Yoichi Oshima, the Vice President for Government and Industry Relations at Tokyo Tech.

With a background in electronics engineering, Yoichi possesses extensive experience in both patent examination and semiconductor-related domains. His career has been marked by various significant roles, including professorships and directorships at esteemed institutions such as Tohoku University and the Japan Patent Office.

He is a pivotal figure in promoting collaboration between academia and industry through Tokyo Tech's Open Innovation Platform. As an authority in semiconductors, intellectual property, and innovation analysis, Yoichi has contributed to numerous publications, including "Intellectual Property Overview for Engineers."

We discuss Yoichi's background and his insights on collaboration between academia and industry. We dive into the role of intellectual property in shaping the landscape of tech transfer, especially amidst today's rapid technological advancements. We also explore efforts to foster innovation within academic institutions and initiatives promoting diversity. We cover the current state of tech transfer and the impact of emerging technologies like AI and IoT. Yoichi also offers advice for tech transfer professionals.

In This Episode:

[02:07] How Yoichi transitioned from electronic engineering to his current field. After working in the electronic field, Yoichi became a patent examiner. He then moved on to innovation and where he is now.

[04:33] Yoichi talks about the evolution of semiconductors and diversity and innovation. Diversity and networking is very important for innovation.

[06:04] He has extensive experience in patent examination. Yoichi was a patent examiner for 20 years.

[06:23] The role of IP in tech transfer. A patent is an open way to do transfers. We need to make the patent system more efficient.

[07:21] Recent industry needs aren't clear. There are challenges that companies face including social issues. To find solutions we need to do design thinking, ask the question, and prototype.

[09:06] Innovation thrives on diversity of thought and experience. Yoichi shares examples of promoting inclusion in the tech transfer space. Collaborating with other universities helps Tokyo Tech get the space needed for their experiments.

[11:05] They've also tried to collaborate with women's universities who don't have adequate engineering departments. Working in a complimentary way has helped develop diversity between the universities.

[12:44] As a senior aide to the President at Tokyo Tech, finding ways to help semiconductor engineers be more efficient intersects with his work in government and industry relations. It's similar to a mentorship position.

[14:07] The current state of tech transfer and what Yoichi envisions for its future in light of emerging technologies. The more diversity the more chance to network in a global way. IoT and AI will help with cross communication more than ever before.

[15:35] Tech transfer advice includes being proud of networking. It's essential for innovation.

[16:24] Key Insights from Intellectual Property Overview for Engineers. Yoichi wrote this book, because at the time there weren't quality IP resources for engineers.

[17:08] Engineers are interested in how to make a patent for their idea. This book is basic knowledge of how to develop your idea before patenting. Patents are how to make your idea/dream come true.

[18:39] Yoichi shares an upcoming project that he is excited about. There's going to be a metaverse technology showcase that anyone from around the world can participate in.

Resources:

Tokyo Tech: Open Innovation Platform

Yoichi Oshima

Equality in Academia: Investing in Women for Better Science With Janet, Ulrike, and Ursula

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Breaking Barriers: The Untold Stories of Women Inventors With Rebekah Oakes

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Navigating Tech Transfer and Early-Stage Technology Acquisition With Leah Speser

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

I’m excited to introduce Leah Speser, a seasoned expert in technology transfer and commercialization, currently serving as the Senior Consultant for Knowledge Transfer & Commercialization at the Research and Innovation Foundation of the Republic of Cyprus. Leah's experience and expertise in the world of tech transfer are extensive. She has an impressive career that spans academia, industry, and international development.

Today, we’re discussing early-stage technology acquisition opportunities, a topic crucial for anyone looking to stay ahead in the fast-paced world of technology. Leah is here to share her insights, drawing from her extensive experience. We'll cover which types of technologies are catching the eye of industry partners, how to pinpoint these opportunities, and the strategies that can make or break successful partnerships.

We also dive into the critical roles of collaboration and intellectual property in tech acquisition, providing valuable advice on navigating these complex areas. We'll discuss the tools and resources that can aid professionals in this journey, along with much more from Leah’s vast reservoir of knowledge.

Whether you’re a professional looking to expand your understanding of technology transfer, an industry partner seeking new opportunities, or simply curious about the world of early-stage technology acquisition, we've got you covered.

In This Episode:

[01:59] When it comes to early stage technology acquisition opportunities, making money is a priority. The technology needs to fit with your product and service portfolio and the company has to have the capacity for R&D, applied R&D, new product development, and a way to exit. Either by selling or licensing.

[03:20] Strategies for finding early stage technologies for acquisition include finding a technology roadmap and do a functional decomposition and see how you fit in with the roadmap. You could also go to industry trade shows to find out what the customer is interested in.

[05:00] Leah shares how early-stage technology acquisition differs across industries and some key considerations for professionals to keep in mind.

[05:14] Deeptech takes long investment periods. How long before an end user will be able to use the technology?

[06:25] Read Winning the Right Game to learn how to work within an ecosystem.

[07:19] How do you deliver value architecture?

[08:13] Are the right people in the company? Do they know anything about new product development?

[09:04] Partnering is a critical element. Internal partners matter too.

[10:34] Recognize what your business is about. Be in the door building business so opportunity can knock.

[11:40] Leah shares a story about licensing a dental x-ray shield. It's about gathering information, connecting the right people, and getting a sale.

[13:15] The magic is in the know-how. Don't blame the customer for your problems.

[15:02] If it's a public company, you can look at their SEC filings and annual reports to begin to understand their portfolio. Get senior management involvement. Another critical factor is to develop a balanced scorecard. Think about the range of factors that are important to universities.

[16:32] IP matters most with deeptech. A big factor is the rate of project replacement or churn. Small tech is something that has a very small market.

[18:49] IP is a business tool that needs to be approached strategically.

[20:59] Recommended tools and resources include finding your value architecture, developing a business model, SWOT Analysis, and eliminating anything not of value.

[22:09] Advice for professionals looking to capitalize on early stage technology acquisition opportunities. Be a trickster.

[24:14] ICA or the Incident Command System. A simple and flexible structure that can be built up as time goes on.

[25:44] We learn how Leah ended up in Cyprus.

[28:37] When Leah arrived, Cyprus didn't have tech transfer. It's a tiny island with about 9,000 people. It's also the highest educated population in Europe.

[31:18] SBIR legislation gave leverage to small research companies.

[31:39] What's really needed in Cyprus is transition and product development companies.

[32:59] In Cyprus, they are developing a structure where they move teams out of universities and into industry with the technology.

[34:38] Dr Marianna Prokopi-Demetriades has developed three spinout drugs and attracted venture capital from all over the world.

[35:26] Another woman is working on hopefully the first medicinal cure of triple negative breast cancer.

[36:02] They also have Centers of Excellence that are partially funded by the EU. Cyprus Maritime Academy is working on an artificial reef.

[38:53] The hub is the central knowledge transfer office. The spokes are in all of the universities and research institutes. The spokes develop IP policies and patent budgets.

[42:10] They're also working on getting people RTTP certified.

[43:22] Their emphasis is on funding and commercialization. They also put a lot of emphasis on outreach to industry.

[44:40] A lot of their programs are consortium programs. They also have a PhD in Industry program. There are also internships and programs to encourage spinouts and startups.

[46:16] They are the primary tech transfer office for the country.

[49:11] Tech transfer is a contact sport. Many collisions and minimal friction. People live in a different world now with digital and the way they interact and think.

[52:48] Leah shares examples of partnerships and collaborations forged with International organizations in Cyprus.

Resources:

Research and Innovation Foundation of the Republic of Cyprus

Leah Speser LinkedIn

Foresight Science & Technology Leah Speser

The Art and Science of Technology Transfer

The Wide Lens: What Successful Innovators See That Others Miss

Winning the Right Game: How to Disrupt, Defend, and Deliver in a Changing World (Management on the Cutting Edge)

SBIR

Dr Marianna Prokopi-Demetriades

Cyprus Maritime Academy

RTTP Certification

Shaping A More Inclusive Intellectual Property World With Derrick Brent

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Celebrating Black Entrepreneurial Excellence: A Glimpse into Spelman's Center for Entrepreneurship with Dr. Grant Warner

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Immortalizing The Untold Stories of Black Inventors with James Howard of BIHOF

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

As February unfolds, we're thrilled to kick off a special series in celebration of Black History Month, a time to honor the significant contributions and achievements of African Americans throughout history. Today, we're excited to chat with James Howard, the Executive Director of the Black Inventors Hall of Fame (BIHOF).

James Howard wears many hats: he is a college professor, design historian, entrepreneur, industrial designer, inventor, and restaurateur. He brings more than 25 years of teaching experience in design and has created a course on Design Thinking and Design History, examining how design influences society.

An inventor in his own right, James has 20 patents under his belt. His most recent project involves launching Entrepreneurial U, the first Design Thinking school in Morris County.

We take a fascinating look at vital contributions by African Americans that were frequently overlooked or not publicized. James' passion for science, patents, inventions, and immortalizing these achievements and contributions is contagious in this enlightening and informative episode.

In This Episode:

[01:52] James shares his initial inspiration for the Black Inventors Hall of Fame.

[03:19] He noticed a 2016 issue of Time Magazine that featured America's top 100 inventors. There wasn't a single black inventor mentioned until the very end.

[05:09] Four years later he opened the Black Inventors Hall of Fame.

[05:59] He's designing a building to immortalize the contribution of black inventors over the last 400 years.

[07:10] African-American, Charles Frederick Page patented the first airship before the Wright Brothers. Charles Henry Turner was one of the earliest pioneers in this country studying the cognitive quality of animals.

[11:00] James highlights inductees including Dr. Daniel Hale Williams, Dr. Charles Drew, Dr. Patricia Bath and Lonnie Johnson who invented the Super Soaker and more amazing inventors.

[16:09] James gives us more details about the museum including who the different halls are named after and the stories they will tell.

[16:38] He also explains a program called A Moment In Time which will give holographic images of the inventors as they tell their story.

[19:39] There's also going to be a STEM Learning Center which focuses on teaching technology to underserved individuals and kids. Tuition free.

[19:57] There's also going to be a Maker Station and an incubator for entrepreneurs. There will also be a theater to tell the stories through film.

[22:40] James talks about the Future Black Innovators Initiative.

[26:35] The vision will be shared over three distinct eras including the early innovators, the golden era of innovation, and the modern era of innovation.

[31:44] We learn about the vision of the learning center from whiteboards to 3D printers to the encouragement of open thinking.

[34:03] Reach out to James if you are interested in helping with the museum. Reach out if you're interested in researching, finding artifacts, or sharing information about an inventor whose story needs to be told.

Resources:

Black Inventors Hall of Fame

James Howard Black Inventors Leadership Team

James Howard LinkedIn

Entrepreneurial U, Morris County’s First School Of Design Thinking

Charles Frederick Page

Charles Henry Turner

Behind the Numbers- Insights from U.S. Patenting on Diagnosing COVID-19

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

We have some interesting insights to share from "Diagnosing COVID-19: A Perspective from U.S. Patenting Activity," a report by the US Patent and Trademark Office's Chief Economist, Andrew Toole, and Senior Research Economist, Nicholas A. Pairolero.

Dr. Andrew Toole is the Chief Economist at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and also serves as a Research Associate at the Centre for European Economic Research (ZEW). He has experience spanning the private sector, academia, and government.

Nicholas A. Pairolero is a Senior Research Economist at the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). His work focuses on evidence-based policy and decision-making, with a particular interest in the economics of innovation.

This episode uncovers how universities and small companies have emerged as leaders in patenting COVID-19 diagnostics innovations. It highlights the critical role of government funding in driving innovation, alongside intriguing statistics about women patent applicants. We talk about the future of innovation and more in this in-depth exploration of the landscape of COVID-19 diagnostics patents.

In This Episode:

[01:33] The World Trade Organization adopted a waiver of COVID-19 related vaccine patents in June of 2022. The waiver was expanded to therapeutics and diagnostics which opened up an information vacuum.

[03:07] With the report Andy and Nick discovered that universities and small companies emerged as leaders in patenting COVID-19 diagnostics.

[03:47] They started on the report around April of 2023. They had Nick and patent examiners and really knowledgeable people on board. There were economists on the data side. Nick was able to organize the group within the PTO and collaborate with the International Trade Commission.

[04:51] Nick shares examples of small companies and universities that were top patent applicants for COVID-19 diagnostics.

[05:50] He also shares some of the companies that had emergency use authorization for diagnostics and the path to commercialization.

[07:27] Nick talks about the contributions of smaller organizations and the adaptability and diversity of the COVID-19 diagnostic innovation landscape.

[08:59] In the initial part of the pandemic, companies were responsive right away in April, May, and June of 2020. The response was extremely fast.

[10:16] The university system was well poised to respond to the pandemic. There were also a number of different government programs and support for research. Academic institutions have the ability to be very flexible.

[11:52] Support from the NIH played a crucial role. Under the Bayh-Dole Act universities are allowed to get exclusive rights to inventions that are partially funded by the government.

[13:45] About 11% of all of the patenting found related to COVID-19 diagnostics was supported in part by government funding.

[15:09] Nick is doing work with AI to identify patents and group them and create studies such as patent landscapes.

[16:03] Nick talks about taking a broader approach and a more specific approach when studying patent applications.

[19:34] Discovering that universities and small firms were such a big part of the equation was an "aha" moment.

[21:08] 71% of the public filings that they found were small companies and universities.

[22:41] It's very difficult to link the packaged test back to the original patents.

[23:31] Government support is one of the most important sources fueling innovation in the healthcare industry. The NIH is the largest . funding agency for healthcare research in the world.

[25:18] Obstacles for smaller groups include fewer experienced attorneys, slightly lower allowance rates, and more changes in the process.

[26:20] The quality of the attorney matters when getting through the complicated legal process of patent examination.

[27:20] Small and micro entities are a category they label, because they pay discounted fees for their filing and have to meet certain criteria. They are also looking at the inventors and even women versus men.

[28:07] Women inventors are arriving at the PTO in a greater proportion through small and micro entities as opposed to the large companies.

[29:14] They are also pursuing a study on how uncertainty is affecting the choices of applicants.

[30:07] Patent thickets are areas with a lot of patents that would be difficult to negotiate licensing over multiple holders.

[32:09] They looked at the overlap of invention claims or the description of what the invention does. They see increasing overlap over time.

[35:34] Having a study which shows what works and what doesn't work will help with future collaborative roles for small organizations and universities and government support in future health crises.

[37:45] Resilience and Ingenuity: Global Innovation Responses to Covid-19, shows the importance of collaboration that has to happen between government and organizations.

Resources:

Andrew Toole

Andrew Toole LinkedIn

Nicholas Pairolero

Nicholas Pairolero LinkedIn

Diagnosing COVID-19: A perspective from U.S. patenting activity.

Derwent Innovation

NIH RADx

The Impact of Public Basic Research on Industrial Innovation: Evidence from the Pharmaceutical Industry

Resilience and Ingenuity: Global Innovation Responses to Covid-19

Inclusive Innovation: Bridging the Inventor Gap with Insights from Colleen Chien and Lisa Larrimore Ouellette

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Bayh-Dole Draft Concerns - Member Bonus episode

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 11:50:20 +0000

As the clock ticks towards the closure of the 60-day comment period on Feb. 6, and NIST prepares to review and finalize guidance, there are still some crucial concerns regarding the Draft Interagency Guidance Framework for Considering the Exercise of March-In Rights, a tool created to evaluate when it might be appropriate to require licensing of a patent developed with federal funding.

The Bayh-Dole Act, a key driver of public-private partnerships and innovation in the U.S., is at the heart of today's discussion. We'll explore AUTM's position, the act's original intentions, and the potential impacts of the Draft Guidelines on innovation and intellectual property.

Joining the conversation is Mike Waring, AUTM’s Advocacy & Alliances Coordinator and President/CEO of Waring Federal Strategies. With nearly 20 years at AUTM, including roles as Assistant VP of Advocacy and Cabinet Chair, Mike brings a wealth of experience in tech transfer and IP issues.

Mike's background includes serving as Director of the University of Michigan’s D.C. Office, chairing the AAU Task Force on Intellectual Property, IT, and Tech Transfer, and working in various capacities with AUTM on advocacy issues. His previous roles also include working at the National Association of Broadcasters and as a legislative aide for Rep. Harold Rogers.

In This Episode:

[02:39] The Bayh-Dole Act is one of the most transformational pieces of legislation that Congress has worked on. Now that it's been around for 40 years people are taking it for granted.

[03:55] It incentivizes universities and nonprofits to take great ideas to market.

[04:52] AUTM believes that using march-in rights to lower drug prices is improper under the Bayh-Dole Act. There were limited uses for march-in to make sure that technologies actually get to the marketplace.

[06:23] Congress didn't leave wiggle room for march-in rights to be reinterpreted. They were very clear about the limited uses of march-in. Having it interpreted by countless agencies will be a recipe for disaster.

[07:38] Pricing terms didn't work 30 years ago. Lesson learned.

[08:40] There's bipartisan support that the Bayh-Dole Act does not allow march-in based on drug pricing. There have been attempts over the years to invoke it, but it's never happened.

[10:13] The last two directors of the patent office have said publicly that this is a horrible idea, and it shouldn't be pursued.

[10:56] This will affect every invention that uses federal money.

[11:38] Adverse consequences include investors not taking the risk and stopping funding for innovation and tech transfer.

[13:37] Pricing is an aftermarket decision. It would be like going back on a promise that was made before to investors.

[14:44] If people aren't willing to invest in new technologies our country could fall behind.

[14:56] Mike talks about the guidelines that AUTM finds concerning. Companies could take patents away from the inventors if they are willing to sell for less.

[15:38] What would be the process of people in the government making very individualized decisions?

[16:20] Big companies will be favored over small companies and startups won't have the resources to defend themselves. It's ill-conceived to have the government making decisions without specialized guidance.

[17:21] We need as many AUTM members as possible to file comments.

[20:07] For more information be sure to attend the upcoming Webinar hosted by AUTM on Monday, January 29th.

[20:42] There will also be a policy session at the AUTM Annual Meeting in San Diego on Monday, February 19th at 11:00.

Resources:

Draft Interagency Guidance Framework for Considering the Exercise of March-In Rights

The Bayh-Dole Act

Mike Waring

Mike Waring LinkedIn

AUTM Annual Meeting February 18-21, 2024 San Diego

Live Webinars

Countdown to AUTM 2024: Almesha Campbell Shares What's in Store for San Diego

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Welcome to a special episode as we gear up for the 2024 AUTM Annual Meeting in San Diego. This episode offers an exciting sneak peek at what awaits attendees this year. I am joined by Almesha Campbell, AUTM Board Chair and Assistant Vice President for Research and Economic Development at Jackson State University. We are thrilled about going to San Diego and participating in this event.

Lisa and Almesha discuss the widespread excitement about the meeting. International members will be recognized, and there will be eight tracks for professionals. At AUTM, experts in various areas are eager to share their knowledge. Almesha explains what the eight tracks are and the subjects they will cover.

The subject matter comes directly from the experts themselves. Almesha shares some of the critical focus areas and the knowledge that participants can gain from engaging in the courses. Besides hands-on sessions, there is a wealth of opportunities to find partners and like-minded individuals for collaboration. This episode will detail what the event entails and get participants excited to head to San Diego.

In This Episode:

[01:38] Attendees will be able to explore iconic San Diego sites.

[03:19] AUTM has a large number of international members. Governmental agencies are also requesting our presence in their countries. We even have trainers in Egypt.

[04:36] AUTM is a great convener and connector of people.

[05:01] International members will be recognized, and there's a whole session traded around them.

[05:19] This year there are eight tracks for professionals.

[05:59] Topics include intellectual property aligning with professional development goals, licensing and insights into common licensing issues, and marketing strategies.

[06:23] We'll also be talking about new ventures and entrepreneurship, funding and educational support, and operations.

[07:34] We'll also be covering how to define tech transfer for the layman for educational advocacy. Another big thing is societal impact and relationship management.

[09:03] There will be an incredible breadth and depth of offerings.

[09:50] Almesha talks about how professionals can benefit from these courses and specific knowledge that they can gain.

[10:12] With a deep dive into critical focus areas participants can expect to gain practical insights and valuable skills.

[11:28] This is the first year that leadership communication will be offered. There's a lot of excitement around this topic.

[12:23] There will also be AM24 Anywhere online access. This is a great option if you can't attend the meeting in person. You can access the educational content and networking opportunities on your own time.

[13:19] You will need the AUTM Connect platform. Virtual meetings can be scheduled with all of the attendees.

[14:49] Advice for attendees is to make sure you sign up for Connect and Collaborate for networking opportunities. Also, hang back in the room and look for opportunities to connect.

[18:33] Industry partners offer concise presentations and share valuable tips on collaboration with companies.

[20:07] There are 90 educational sessions. Almesha shares the three sessions that she thinks are critical.

[25:12] Team AUTM is organizing a 5k not only to promote a healthy and active lifestyle, but also to contribute to supporting the future leaders of the AUTM foundation.

Resources:

Almesha Campbell

Almesha Campbell LinkedIn

AUTM Annual Meeting 2024 San Diego February 18th - 21st

Your Guide To The Good Stuff In San Diego

Changing the Game in Tech: University of Kentucky's Inclusive Approach to Entrepreneurship With Serenity Wright

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

There's more to commercialization than just the impact of technology being transferred. This episode focuses on social innovation in technology and the University of Kentucky's Office of Technology Commercialization's unique approach. It's not just about developing, but also managing entrepreneurship programs with a focus on inclusive innovation. This ensures fair access to training for underrepresented innovators in Kentucky.

I'm joined by Serenity Wright, the Associate Director of Social Innovation at the University. Holding a doctorate in policy, measurement, and evaluation, her rich background includes teaching high school, leading diversity initiatives at Transylvania University, and roles in city government and the Gatton College of Business and Economics. Committed to social equity, she's also involved in various community boards and the Mayoral Commission for Racial Justice and Equity.

In This Episode:

[04:09] Serenity shares how the Social Innovation program is fostering positive change. The positive pennies philosophy.

[08:58] Getting programs and opportunities to people is fostering inclusion. People need to see a clear map on how to get there.

[10:52] How long does it take to get from disclosure to market abstract? How many antiquated policies need to be reviewed or changed? Building an inclusive ecosystem is at the core of everything they do.

[12:34] Serenity talks about programs like UAccel at University of Kentucky that make the social innovation program an "and".

[15:52] Solutions that partners and the faculty are creating are critical to their roles at the unit institution.

[17:46] They also have a community engaged pre seed accelerator. They also bring community-based solutions to their faculty. They partnered with Queer KY with key initiatives about mental and physical health.

[20:08] Being a connector, friendship, and humanity is what the work they are trying to do is about.

[21:09] Some things they have been doing include presentations, tracking press releases, listening, and engaging.

[24:52] Last year, they executed contracts for just under a million dollars in innovation.

[29:36] The University's Quality Enhancement plan is grounded in translational education knowledge and bringing faculty to work together in the community.

[33:00] The social Innovation team also presents at AUTM.

[36:40] The sustaining piece is about infrastructure and working with leadership.

[40:56] Serenity talks about metrics and the many things they track and measure. Impact metrics also tell them what people need.

[44:30] Relationships and being engaged have a lot to do with understanding the impact and the data.

[45:33] Serenity shares some of their bigger wins including patents and proof of concept funding.

Resources:

Serenity Wright

Serenity Wright LinkedIn

Enabling Sustained Social Impact with Serenity Wright

UAccel

Queer KY

Federal Government Relations: Advocacy Strategies At The National Level With Mike Waring

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

The esteemed Mike Waring, AUTM’s Advocacy and Alliances Coordinator, is back to continue our conversation about national advocacy and federal government relations. Last week, Mike shared strategies for state and local tech transfer.

Advocacy is ultimately about relationships. Your campus federal relations team is the one that creates the relationship between your campus and Congress, so it's crucial to have a good relationship with them. You want them to know who you are and what your issues are. You also want to be a specific resource to help make your case in Washington.

Mike highlights some of the important issues that he and AUTM have been working on, including a NIST request for information about changes in march-in rights. The intention may be to lower drug prices, but it could create problems and tie up innovation.

The PREVAIL Act is a step in the right direction for helping patent holders. There’s also a Section 174 tax problem that AUTM and a small-business coalition are working on to get fixed. Additionally, there's a bill for a study by the GAO to inform Congress about what needs to be addressed.

We discuss strategies for advocating with industry partners on broader concerns, along with educating others and showcasing your research. It all comes back to relationships and working with people in your state to broaden your efforts.

In This Episode:

[01:46] Engaging with federal agencies begins with having a really good relationship with your federal relations team on campus.

[02:47] The federal relations team has a huge list of issues including research funding, oversight, tax law, and more. Having a strong relationship with them will help get your issues addressed.

[04:34] Strategies to use the federal relations team to advance your agenda. Tap into their expertise and be a resource that can be used to make the case to Washington.

[06:26] Mike shares resources to stay informed including being an AUTM member, IP Watchdog and the Bayh-Dole Coalition. Associations like the AAU and APLU are also helpful.

[09:08] How AUTM was involved with legislation that helped the National Science Foundation provide direct grants to tech transfer offices from the federal government.

[11:25] We learn about grant programs and the importance of internal communication in order to participate.

[12:06] Mike talks about the December 8th, 2023 NIST request for information regarding potential changes in the administration of march-in rights.

[12:51] The administration thinks this would lower drug prices, but it would affect every invention and tie-up innovation.

[13:31] AUTM and the organizations they work with are going to comment along with individual universities. The interpretation of the law should not be changed.

[14:44] The PREVAIL Act is endorsed by AUTM. Senator Chris Coons and Senator Thom Tillis on the committee of IP issues are working with us to try and fix this problem.

[16:16] If your university has a senator on the Judiciary Committee, urge them to vote yes when this bill comes up.

[16:35] There's also a large small-business coalition urging congress to fix the section 174 tax problem.

[17:24] There's also a bill that will tell the government accountability office to do a study on how the federal government oversees the tech transfer business.

[18:00] We need to get GAO to tell congress which problems need to be fixed. The goal is to make tech-transfer work better with the federal government.

[19:19] Congress loves to see the government and industry work together. Private industry partners make sense with congress.

[25:11] Coordinate with federal relations people when you have events on campus that can showcase your work.

[26:10] Beware of what's happening and have the facts and figures when it's time for your school to become an advocate.

Resources:

Association of American Universities

Association of Public & Land-Grant Universities

National Science Foundation

Accelerating Research Translation (ART)

NIST

PREVAIL Act

Building Bridges in Tech Transfer: Local and State Advocacy Strategies with Mike Waring

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 13:31:47 +0000

The success of tech transfer efforts begins with advocacy. Tech transfer is not just an abstract idea. It creates real companies and real jobs. Getting policy makers to understand tech transfer will push the whole profession in a positive way.

Mike Waring, AUTM Advocacy and Alliances Coordinator, is here to talk about advocacy at the local, state, and national level. In this two-part episode, we begin with advocacy at the state and local level.

Mike talks about the importance of tapping into relationships with campus government relations people and enabling them to educate and explain what tech transfer is and why we care about certain things. He also gives tips for presenting state and local governments with success stories of things they care about like innovation and job creation.

Be sure to join us next week as Mike will be back to continue this conversation at the federal level. We'll explore how advocacy efforts transfer to the national stage along with practical insights and actionable strategies.

In This Episode:

[02:42] How tech transfer offices can initiate meaningful conversations with state and local governments about the significance of innovation and tech transfer.

[03:05] Tapping into the relationships your campus government relations have in order to advance tech transfer issues.

[04:30] The importance of educating and explaining how tech transfer works.

[06:32] Establishing strong connections with state and local governments to ensure a collaborative approach to fostering innovation.

[07:16] Look for opportunities for your state and local government relations people to share your successes in new industries and jobs.

[08:04] Show that your success creates success for your region.

[08:32] Addressing concerns and misconceptions.

[10:22] Inviting city councils or the mayor to see how your tech transfer has helped startups with business and opportunity.

[10:56] Navigating government policies for tech transfer professionals.

[12:17] Use other local groups like The Chamber of Commerce to share the importance of tech transfer efforts.

[12:28] Strategies that TTOs can use to engage with local governments for financial backing and support.

[14:27] Demonstrating your value to garner public support. Tools include press releases, annual reports, and events.

[16:39] The power of collaborating with local business leaders and entrepreneurs.

[18:17] Mike shares advice for communicating your successes.

Resources:

Mike Waring

Mike Waring LinkedIn

Technology Transfer Infographic

Inventing Tomorrow: Unraveling the Impact of AI on IP with Kathi Vidal

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Over the last two decades, utility patent applications involving AI have seen an increase of 150%.

In the words of Kathi Vidal, “AI is going to be ubiquitous.” From healthcare to climate science, no industry will be left unaffected by it in some way or another, which is why the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), under Kathi’s leadership, has made it a top priority.

In this episode, Kathi explains how she and her team at the USPTO are adapting to the growing influence of AI, including their approach to engaging with the public, their emphasis on training, and their commitment to principles of safety, security, reliability, and transparency (among others). We also discuss how they are advancing diversity and inclusion and how they are ensuring that the US maintains its position as a leader in the AI space.

In this final episode of 2023, tune in for some food for thought on the evolving relationship between AI and IP!

In This Episode:

[00:36] An overview of today’s episode.

[01:54] The potential of AI for the innovation sector.

[02:11] Challenges presented by AI advancement.

[02:22] The increase in utility patent applications involving AI in the US.

[02:43] AI-related training that is offered by the USPTO.

[03:53] The principles that underpin all the work being done by the USPTO.

[06:05] Determining patentability when AI is used in the inventive process.

[08:13] Challenges of achieving harmonization.

[09:58] The mission that drives the AI and Emerging Technology Partnership initiative that was launched under Kathi’s leadership.

[12:05] How AI is going to impact IP in the future.

[14:12] What legislation around AI should be achieving.

[14:56] How the USPTO uses the feedback they receive from the public regarding AI.

[15:52] Prior art search tools used by patent examiners at the USPTO.

[17:52] How the USPTO is advancing diversity and inclusion.

[18:56] Varying impacts of AI across different patent and trademark types.

[20:29] The role of the USPTO in helping the US maintain leadership in the AI space.

[21:59] Benefits of the partnerships that the USPTO has formed with international bodies.

Resources:

Kathi Vidal Email Address

Kathi Vidal on LinkedIn

AI and Emerging Technology Partnership

This episode is sponsored by FirstIgnite

Unlocking Efficiency: Navigating Prompt Engineering in Tech Transfer Offices

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 14:33:12 +0000

If you’re a technology transfer professional, prompt engineering is going to transform your life. In brief, prompt engineering is a set of plain language inputs that you can impart on a generative AI tool (like ChatGPT) to acquire a particular output.

As an example of how ChatGPT can enhance the efficiency of your processes when you get to grips with prompt engineering, John Keary is currently able to review a whole year of license agreements in just 3 days!

John is the Compliance Manager at New York University and in this episode, he explains how he has managed to complete an unprecedented amount of work in his eight months in this position, why the power of generative AI doesn’t make him fearful, and why he is a strong advocate for every tech transfer professional getting incorporating the technology in their day-to-day activities.

In This Episode:

[00:53] Introducing John Keary, Compliance Manager at New York University.

[01:49] How John completed more than two year's worth of work in three months.

[06:35] What prompt engineering is.

[07:44] The process that John goes through to create prompts for ChatGPT that lead to the results he is looking for.

[10:12] The amount of hours that John has put into creating his master prompt and the amount of hours he has saved as a result.

[12:33] How prompt engineering can enhance the accuracy and efficiency of technology transfer processes.

[13:48] Why John isn’t worried about losing his job to ChatGPT.

[15:42] How ChatGPT can foster collaboration within and between teams in the technology transfer space as highlighted by John’s experiences.

[17:56] How NYU maintains its quality standards when utilizing ChatGPT.

[20:46] Advice on how to evaluate the effectiveness of a prompt for a particular use case.

[22:41] How John and his team assuage their clients’ privacy concerns relating to the use of ChatGPT.

[26:36] The transformative potential of chatbots.

[29:33] Why John recommends technology transfer professionals start using AI tools in their offices.

Resources:

John Keary on LinkedIn

New York University

This episode is sponsored by FirstIgnite

Chat GPT and Other Generative AIs: How to Build a Plan to Use and Monetize with Jonathan Gortat

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Generative AI is opening up a whole new world that all of us, at some point, are going to need to learn to navigate.

From drafting appeal letters to managing heart disease and finding natural disaster survivors, the limits to what generative AI is likely to be able to help humans do (or do on its own) in the near future are seemingly non-existent.

In this episode, Jonathan Gortat, Director of Licensing and Strategic Alliance at Stanford University’s Office of Technology Licensing, joins us to share some of the most exciting advancements that are being made in the generative AI space, the ethical implications of working with this kind of technology, opportunities for monetization, how to keep up with such a swiftly-evolving field, and so much more!

In This Episode:

[01:14] Introducing Jonathan Gortat, Director of Licensing and Strategic Alliance at Stanford University’s Office of Technology Licensing.

[02:53] Where exciting developments in the AI space are taking place.

[03:13] How most modern generative AI is powered.

[04:04] Stanford University projects that have enabled generative AI.

[04:43] How Jonathan predicts generative AI will be used in the near future.

[07:37] Examples of how generative AI is being used currently.

[10:00] Some of the key benefits of generative AI.

[11:44] Some of the downsides of generative AI.

[13:28] How to navigate IP hurdles in the generative AI space.

[17:51] Advice for developing sound monetization strategies for generative AI tools.

[20:00] Process innovation versus product innovation.

[20:30] Impacts of the major innovation shifts that have taken place since the Industrial Revolution.

[24:46] Ethical dilemmas that need to be carefully considered when developing generative AI tools.

[27:04] Opportunities that the generative AI space holds for Stanford University.

[30:43] The importance of preparing people for a world in which generative AI is ubiquitous.

Resources:

Jonathan Gortat on LinkedIn

This episode is sponsored by FirstIgnite

The Role of AI in Technology Transfer Offices with Marc Sedam

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0000

If you’re worrying about the impact that AI tools could have on your job as a technology transfer professional, stop! In this episode, we are joined by Vice President of Technology Opportunities and Ventures at New York University, Marc Sedam, who is here to share why AI is one of the best things to happen to the field of technology transfer.

Six months ago, Marc and his team began harnessing the power of AI in their day-to-day activities. Marc predicts that in 2-years time, everything that is done in their office will be AI-enabled. As a result, in 5-years time, he expects they will have doubled their outputs.

In this episode, you will gain a better understanding of how AI tools work and the ways in which this technology is going to increase the sophistication of your work, bridge gaps between industry and academia, and generally make your life easier and more enjoyable!

In This Episode:

[01:03] Introducing Marc Sedam, Vice President of Technology Opportunities and Ventures at New York University.

[02:41] The transformative power of AI and machine learning in the technology transfer space.

[04:43] Differences between public and private AI applications.

[07:54] The profound impact that AI tools have had on NYU’s technology transfer ventures.

[14:01] How publicly-available AI tools can decrease the time needed to conduct back-office tasks.

[16:20] Why technology transfer professionals will not lose their jobs to AI tools.

[16:57] Examples of the ways Marc and his team ensure data quality and accuracy when using AI tools.

[18:16] An overview of how AI works and the problem of hallucinations.

[19:31] Why hallucinations are rare occurrences when using private AI tools.

[21:42] The investment that is required to benefit from AI tools.

[23:13] Marc’s approach to encouraging the use of AI tools amongst his team.

[27:01] The 5-year goal that Marc hopes to achieve through implementing AI tools effectively.

[27:44] Why Marc isn’t worried about job displacement as a result of AI.

[31:14] What the future of technology transfer could look like because of AI.

[37:06] An overview of the AUTM/NYU collaboration that aims to encourage AI adoption in technology transfer.

Resources:

Marc Sedam on LinkedIn

New York University (NYU)

Thank you to our sponsor for this series First Ignite.

Empowering Indigenous Artists and Entrepreneurs with Amanda Bernard

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0000

“Together we can foster a future where indigenous voices are heard, cultures are preserved, and the artists of these communities are recognized and celebrated.”

As a proud member of the Madawaska Maliseet First Nation, Amanda Bernard is on a mission to celebrate, support, and empower indigenous artists and entrepreneurs and in doing so, create a more just and culturally rich world.

In this episode, Amanda joins us to share what her journey of creating a virtual marketplace for indigenous creatives has consisted of to date as well as her hopes for the future of Shawish.

In This Episode:

[00:57] Introducing Amanda Bernard, the founder of indigenous marketplace Shawish.

[01:46] Amanda shares what motivated her to found Shawish (and how she chose its name).

[03:20] How Shawish has evolved since its founding.

[05:22] The unique ways in which Shawish empowers indigenous artists and entrepreneurs.

[06:14] How Shawish prevents indigenous appropriation.

[07:19] The role that you can play in supporting indigenous communities.

[08:35] Common challenges faced by indigenous communities.

[10:19] The myriad benefits of supporting indigenous artists and entrepreneurs.

[10:56] What Amanda has found most rewarding about her journey with Shawish.

[11:22] How Amanda’s heritage fuels her to do the work that she does.

[12:00] The continuous learning process that Amanda is committed to at Shawish.

[13:30] Examples of how you can support the Shawish mission.

[13:52] The future of Shawish.

Resources:

Amanda Bernard on LinkedIn

Shawish

Empowering Indigenous Communities Through IP with Susan Anthony

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0000

As an attorney in the Office of Policy and International Affairs at the USPTO and the USPTO’s Tribal Affairs Liaison, Susan Anthony has committed most of her career to protecting indigenous knowledge and empowering indigenous communities.

In this episode, Susan shares where her passion for helping indigenous communities originated, what she loves most about her work, and some of the most memorable moments of her time spent addressing indigenous IP and cultural heritage issues.

There are 574 federally recognized tribes in the United States, each with their own forms of knowledge and cultural expressions that the Western world can learn an immense amount from.

In This Episode:

[00:52] Introducing Susan Anthony, an attorney in the Office of Policy and International Affairs at the USPTO.

[02:04] What Susan loves about her job.

[04:04] The personal story that led Susan to her current position.

[06:43] How the WIPO IGC connects the USPTO to organizations in other countries dealing with cultural heritage issues.

[08:45] Examples of the resources that the USPTO provides to indigenous communities.

[14:50] USPTO programs that empower indigenous communities.

[15:01] The number of tribes in the United States and the importance of being sensitive to their differences when developing programs to meet their needs.

[16:35] How the WIPO IGC defines traditional knowledge and traditional cultural expressions.

[19:17] Stories that highlight the meaningful difference that the USPTO is making in the lives of indigenous community members.

[21:59] Different definitions of success.

[24:44] The challenges of safeguarding indigenous knowledge through IP mechanisms.

[26:41] The importance of cultivating greater collaboration between indigenous people and the broader IP community.

[28:03] Organizations offering various forms of support to indigenous communities.

Resources:

Susan Anthony on LinkedIn

Susan Anthony Email Address

United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)

World Intellectual Property Organization Intergovernmental Committee WIPO IGC

National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI)

When the Light of the World Was Subdued, Our Songs Came Through

American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES)

Uplifting Indigenous Communities through Innovation with Jael Whitney

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Indigenous Peoples' Month, celebrated throughout November in the U.S., is a time to celebrate and honor the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Indigenous communities.

In the first episode of our Indigenous People Celebration series, we’re joined by Jael Whitney, an Officer for MIT Solve’s Indigenous Communities Program with a background in business development, marketing, and economics.

Tune in today to learn how Jael and her colleagues at MIT Solve are helping indigenous communities address some of their most pressing challenges, the core pillars that underpin their mission, and how you can play a role in supporting and uplifting these marginalized members of society.

In This Episode:

[01:08] Introducing Jael Whitney, an Officer for MIT Solve's Indigenous Communities Program.

[02:15] Jael shares an overview of the impactful work being done by MIT Solve in relation to indigenous communities.

[03:49] MIT Solve’s approach to meeting the unique needs of indigenous communities.

[04:49] The five core values that underpin MIT Solve’s mission.

[06:43] The size and structure of the Indigenous Communities Fellowship team.

[07:40] One of Jael’s proudest achievements.

[09:12] The benefits of becoming an Indigenous Communities Fellow.

[02:34] How MIT Solve fosters a sense of community within indigenous communities and organizations.

[11:42] MIT Solve’s approach to giving a voice to indigenous communities.

[12:26] How technology can be used to serve indigenous communities more effectively.

[13:45] How you can contribute to the upliftment of indigenous communities through innovation.

Resources:

Jael Whitney on LinkedIn

MIT Solve: Indigenous Communities Fellowship

Invent Together: Paving the Way for Inclusive Innovation with Holly Fechner and Morgan Schreurs

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Creating a Globally Recognized Innovation Hub in Puerto Rico with Carlos Baez-Pagan

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Carlos Baez-Pagan and his team at the Puerto Rico Science, Technology & Research Trust are working towards the creation of a globally recognized innovation hub. In this episode, Carlos, the Trust’s Associate Director, shares what their journey over the past (almost) 20 years has entailed.

Carlos has a background in biochemistry and business administration, has been an AUTM member since 2017, is co-chair of the Better World Project, and is one of the pioneers of technology transfer in his home country.

Listen to this insightful episode to learn about the four strategic pillars of the Trust, how they support Hispanic innovators on a local and global scale, some of their most noteworthy success stories, and their aspirations for the future!

In This Episode:

[00:53] Introducing Carlos Baez-Pagan, Associate Director of the Puerto Rico Science, Technology & Research Trust.

[01:48] The mission of the Trust.

[02:45] An overview of the Trust’s four strategic pillars and the programs that they cover.

[07:04] How the Trust has evolved since its founding in 2004.

[09:21] Carlos’ educational and career trajectory to date.

[17:07] Science City: the Trust’s main infrastructure-related initiative.

[20:02] Support the Trust offers to innovators, inventors, and entrepreneurs.

[25:10] The collaborative network that the Trust has established (and the many benefits it has).

[27:10] The global scale of the Trust in terms of supporting Hispanic innovators.

[30:18] Some of the Trust’s greatest achievements.

[32:35] Educational programs in Puerto Rico that focus on uplifting Hispanic talent in the fields of science and technology.

[34:12] Highlighting the success of the Trust’s Research Grants Program.

[36:44] Goals that the Trust is working towards.

Resources:

Carlos Baez-Pagan

Puerto Rico Science, Technology & Research Trust

Disrupting Women’s Healthcare with Oriana Papin-Zoghbi

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Ovarian cancer is one of the biggest killers, one of the hardest to diagnose, and the second most expensive to treat. Today’s guest is the cofounder of AOA Dx, a company that is transforming ovarian cancer detection and diagnosis.

Oriana Papin-Zoghbi is a Venezuelan-born entrepreneur who grew up in the Middle East and attended school in Europe before moving to the United States. In this episode, she shares how she serendipitously became involved in the women’s health space before the word femtech even existed, how her Hispanic heritage has influenced her career, and the founding story of AOA Dx.

The lack of funding for, lack of research on, and diagnostic challenges of ovarian cancer means that 80% of women are diagnosed when they are in stage 3 or 4 even though they present with symptoms far earlier. Tune in today to hear how AOA Dx is going to change that, and the huge implications it will have for the healthcare space.

In This Episode:

[00:40] Introducing CEO and cofounder of early cancer detection company AOA Dx, Oriana Papin-Zoghbi.

[01:50] An overview of Oriana’s career journey.

[04:26] Factors that inspired the founding of AOA Dx.

[05:07] What the early days of AOA Dx entailed for Oriana and her cofounders.

[05:55] Oriana’s heritage and how it has impacted her career as an entrepreneur in the biotech industry.

[08:44] The challenges of conducting early screening for ovarian cancer.

[10:29] How ovarian cancer is traditionally diagnosed.

[11:57] How AOA Dx has transformed ovarian cancer diagnoses.

[12:53] An overview of the process of founding and building out AOA Dx.

[14:50] The most common symptoms of ovarian cancer.

[16:02] Novel biomarkers that AOA Dx has developed for ovarian cancer screening.

[17:15] The importance of collaboration in the technology transfer space and some of AOA Dx’s key partnerships.

[19:27] How AOA Dx’s diagnostic tool will transform the healthcare space.

[21:12] Plans that Oriana and her cofounders have for the future of AOA Dx.

[22:19] Major challenges of working in the diagnostics space.

[23:50] Advice for aspiring healthcare entrepreneurs.

Resources:

Oriana Papin-Zoghbi

AOA Dx

Disrupting the Energy Sector with Byron Rojas

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Through his company, Easymetering, Byron Rojas is disrupting the energy sector by simultaneously optimizing consumption and reducing carbon emissions. In this episode, the second in our Hispanic Heritage Month series, he joins us to share the fascinating journey that has brought him to this point!

Byron is an electronic engineering graduate from Ecuador who has pioneered cutting-edge innovations in the fields of data transmission, cellular network infrastructure, and smart metering technology.

Tune in today to hear what inspires him, the strong influence that his Hispanic heritage has had on his career, some of his most memorable experiences as both an innovator and an entrepreneur, the big goals that he is aiming to achieve through Easymetering, and more!

In This Episode:

[00:51] Introducing Byron Rojas, the founder of Easymetering.

[01:55] Byron shares what has inspired him to found his own companies.

[09:19] Limitations of the current smart meter technologies.

[10:23] The goal that Byron hopes to achieve through Easymetering.

[10:41] What Easymetering is and how it works.

[13:14] The influence that Byron’s Hispanic heritage has had on his life.

[17:34] Byron’s experience of the United States’ commercialization process.

[22:36] A defining moment of Byron’s career in the metering industry.

[26:12] Advanced metering infrastructure (AMI): what it is and why it matters.

[29:27] The percentage of meters that are smart in the United States and how Byron is working to change this.

[32:26] How Easymetering contributes to decarbonization.

[34:30] Byron’s long-term aspirations for Easymetering.

[35:54] Where Byron has drawn inspiration from along his journey.

[38:20] Words of advice for aspiring Hispanic entrepreneurs and innovators.

Resources:

Byron Rojas on LinkedIn

Easymetering

Taking Underserved Communities “To the Stars” with Dr. Jose Morey

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 10:30:44 +0000

The Better World Project: Celebrating the Impact of Innovation with Ann Amidzich

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

AUTM’s Better World Project (BWP) is a platform that showcases impactful inventions, from Honeycrisp apples to life-changing medical devices, with the aim of highlighting the transformative power of academic research when it is put into practice.

Ann Amidzich has a background in criminal justice and is currently a Co-Chair of the Better World Project Committee. In this episode, she shares examples of the inventions that the BWP has showcased, how AUTM assists applicants through the process, how they intend to expand the project in the future, and more.

Submissions for the 2024 Awards are open until September 30th, and your contributions can make a real difference in promoting the positive impact of research and innovation!

In This Episode:

[00:45] An overview of the Better World Project (BWP)

[01:30] Introducing Ann Amidzich, a Senior Intellectual Property Manager for the Office of Technology Development at the Medical College of Wisconsin and Co-Chair of the BWP Committee.

[02:57] An overview of Ann’s fascinating career journey.

[04:50] Ann’s motivation for transitioning into the field of technology transfer.

[05:36] Some of the BWP success stories that have resonated most with Ann.

[06:48] The value of BWP to academic research and the technology transfer industry.

[07:17] Examples of the wide range of inventions that have been showcased by the BWP.

[08:26] Qualities that Ann and her team look for when deciding which inventions to showcase in the BWP.

[09:40] How Ann and her co-chair plan to expand the BWP in the future.

[10:47] Ways in which the BWP has evolved since its founding.

[12:52] Why Ann is so inspired by the BWP.

[13:36] How AUTM guides applicants through the process of submitting to the BWP Awards.

[15:21] How to play a role in the world-changing work being done by BWP.

Resources:

Better World Project

Brook Pritchett Email Address

Ann Amidzich on LinkedIn

Lessons from the 2022 AUTM Salary Survey with John Miner

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Since 1999, John Miner has been involved in the AUTM Salary Survey, an indispensable tool that provides a comprehensive review of compensation trends in the field of technology transfer.

The value of the salary survey lies in its ability to help technology transfer offices understand what they need to do to attract and retain talent and to make technology transfer professionals aware of the opportunities that come with developing a career in the space.

In today’s episode, John explains how upgrades to the Salary Survey have made it much more user-friendly. We then discuss the implications of some of the most surprising findings, including the 20 to 30% decline in staffing since the pandemic across the offices that responded, the fact that 46% of respondents had been in their current position for 3 years or less and that 100 out of the 121 institutions that took part employ a hybrid working model!

In This Episode:

[01:23] Introducing John Miner, an Assistant Director in the Office of Technology Transfer at the University of Central Florida.

[02:34] Why the AUTM Salary Survey is an indispensable resource for technology transfer professionals.

[05:20] What the Salary Survey tells us about how the pandemic impacted staffing across technology transfer offices.

[05:38] Upgrades that have recently been made to the Salary Survey and the benefits that it will have for the field.

[09:38] The staggering job turnover rate that was identified in the Salary Survey.

[11:35] What the Salary Survey indicates about hybrid and remote working models.

[14:10] Findings from the Salary Survey relating to hiring for leadership positions.

[14:32] Positions that are more and less optimal for hybrid or remote work.

[15:56] A major benefit of employing a hybrid or remote working model.

[17:26] Findings from the Salary Survey relating to divisions along gender lines in the technology transfer space.

[18:23] Why John is optimistic about the technology transfer field’s ability to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion.

[20:30] Value of the AUTM Mentorship Committee.

[21:57] Consternation that the Salary Survey causes for some technology transfer offices.

[23:20] How the Salary Survey benefits people developing a career in technology transfer and technology transfer offices.

[26:09] John’s thoughts on the reasons for the decline in the number of responses to the 2022 Salary Survey in comparison to 2017.

[29:47] The cost of the Salary Survey.

Resources:

John Miner on LinkedIn

AUTM Salary Survey

University of Central Florida

AUTM Mentorship Committee

Unpacking the 2022 Canadian Licensing Survey with Olivia Novak

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we’re delving into the 2022 Canadian Licensing Survey with the Chair of the AUTM Canadian Licensing Survey Committee and Associate Director of Technology Transfer at McGill University, Olivia Novac.

Olivia’s involvement in the Licensing Survey originated from her desire to change the fact that many institutions were opting out of taking the survey. Understanding the Survey’s enormous value for the innovation ecosystem, Olivia took on the Chair position in 2017 and has never looked back.

Join us as we unpack some of the key findings from the Licensing Survey, the opportunities that it provides to technology transfer professionals, the differences between the Canadian and American technology transfer landscapes, and more!

In This Episode:

[00:33] An overview of AUTM’s Annual Licensing Activity Survey.

[02:12] Introducing Olivia Novac, the Chair of the AUTM Canadian Licensing Survey Committee and Associate Director of Technology Transfer at McGill University.

[02:11] Olivia explains how she became involved with the Canadian Licensing Survey.

[03:58] Key differences between the US and Canadian technology transfer sectors.

[07:00] A surprising finding from the Canadian Licensing Survey.

[08:23] Funding-related changes that have taken place over the past year.

[09:24] A finding from the Canadian Licensing Survey that indicates a positive trend in the technology transfer space.

[10:10] The value of the Canadian Licensing Survey as a benchmarking tool.

[12:31] What makes the AUTM Licensing Survey unique.

[13:43] Misconceptions that can be cleared up through data obtained from the Canadian Licensing Survey.

[16:10] Opportunities that the Canadian Licensing Survey presents for collaborations in the technology transfer space.

[17:29] The process of ensuring that the Canadian Licensing Survey is continually evolving and improving.

[19:24] How Olivia and her team at McGill University make use of the data from the Canadian Licensing Survey.

[21:35] Ways in which you can use the data from the Canadian Licensing Survey to optimize your technology transfer efforts.

[22:04] How Olivia came to be multilingual and the benefits it has afforded her in her career.

Resources:

Olivia Novac on LinkedIn

2022 Licensing Survey

McGill University

Policy Issues and Tech Transfer: Making Your Voice Heard with Kate Hudson

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0000

“With policy, you have to think long-game. This is a marathon, not a sprint.”

The policy landscape is continuously evolving; every day there is a new government action taking place that influences technology transfer on university campuses. As a technology transfer professional, staying on top of those changes will help you facilitate far-reaching impact.

Today’s guest, Kate Hudson, is the Associate Vice President and Counsel for Policy and Federal Relations at the Association of American Universities. Her experience in intellectual property, technology transfer, open and public access, data privacy, and copyright issues make her a powerhouse in the policy advocacy arena.

In this episode, Kate shares the importance of understanding that policy advocacy is a long game, why traditional technology transfer metrics don’t paint the full picture of the impact of the innovation ecosystem, her advice for building strong relationships with policy-makers, her worries about the US IP system, and how to “get visible” in the policy space!

In This Episode:

[00:55] Introducing Kate Hudson, Associate Vice President and Counsel for Policy and Federal Relations at the Association of American Universities.

[02:31] Examples of the many ways that policy decisions influence technology transfer on university campuses.

[04:20] How Kate stays on top of the daily changes that are taking place at a policy level.

[05:38] The mindset that is required for technology transfer offices to collaborate effectively with research and government relations departments.

[06:36] Advice for building strong relationships with policy-makers.

[09:15] The importance of looking beyond traditional technology transfer metrics at the broader impact on the economy as a whole.

[12:47] How (and why) to combat the decentralization culture on American university campuses as a technology transfer professional.

[17:29] An overview of the current political landscape and how it affects the technology transfer space.

[22:12] The benefits of being a generalist, like Kate, working in the technology transfer field.

[25:08] Kate’s involvement in educating congresspeople about the Bayh-Dole Act and march-in rights.

[30:54] The concerning state of the US IP system.

[36:09] How to stay up to date on ever-evolving policy developments.

[39:30] The three pillars of the innovation ecosystem and the importance of policy advocacy in ensuring these pillars maintain their strengths.

[43:20] Why you should be loud about your work in the policy space!

Resources:

Kate Hudson on LinkedIn

Association of American Universities

National Academy of Inventors

The Secrets to Israel’s Startup Success with Keren Primor Cohen

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Israel is a hotbed for innovation, particularly in the high-tech space. This is evidenced by the fact that the sector makes up 18.1% of the country’s GDP (making it the largest contributor to the economy). Part of the reason for the enormous success they have achieved is the remarkable collaboration between academia, industry, and technology transfer offices.

Today’s guest is the CEO of Ramot, the Tech Transfer Company of Tel Aviv University, and co-chair of the Israel Tech Transfer Network (ITTN), Keren Primor Cohen. Keren and her team have played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between academia and industry in the innovation ecosystem.

During this episode, Keren delves into some of the incredible innovation success stories that she has been involved in bringing to life, the various types of support that Israel’s technology transfer sector offers to startups, and her advice for navigating the technology transfer landscape.

In This Episode:

[01:00] Introducing Keren Primor Cohen, the CEO of Ramot and co-chair of the ITTN.

[02:23] Reasons for the recent rise in startups originating from universities and medical centers in Israel.

[03:46] An example that highlights the powerful connection between academia, industry, and technology transfer in Israel.

[05:07] Some of the most memorable success stories that Keren has been involved with during her time as CEO of Ramot.

[08:17] The value that collaborative platforms like ITTN bring to the innovation sector.

[09:53] How partnerships between academic institutions and government agencies in industries have impacted innovation in Israel.

[11:36] Support that Israel’s technology transfer sector offers to startups.

[15:22] The size of the Israeli high-tech sector.

[16:02] Three sectors that are at the forefront of the Israeli tech sector.

[17:29] Similarities and differences between Israeli and American approaches to technology transfer.

[20:42] Advice for navigating the technology transfer landscape.

Resources:

Keren Primor Cohen on LinkedIn

Ramot

Israel Tech Transfer Network

Navigating the Startup Journey with Derrick L. Maultsby Jr.

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Today’s guest, Derrick L. Maultsby Jr., serves as a business advisor and corporate transactional lawyer to startups, small to mid-sized businesses, and Fortune 50 companies in the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions, helping them grow intelligently and effectively.

The startup world is one of “nuances and details,” and numerous important legal elements need to be taken into consideration when founding a business. In this episode, Derrick explains where founders and founding teams often go wrong from a legal perspective and offers his sound advice on the steps that should be taken in order to give a startup the best chance of success.

From deciding on the type of legal entity that best suits your needs and attracting the right investors to ensuring that your IP is adequately protected, the wealth of knowledge that Derrick shares during this episode will broaden your understanding of what is involved in navigating the startup journey!

In This Episode:

[00:36] Introducing corporate attorney and business advisor Derrick Maultsby Jr.

[02:14] Areas within which Derrick works.

[02:44] Elements that all startup founders need to be aware of.

[03:46] The most effective ways technology transfer offices can support startup founders and founding teams.

[06:00] Examples of the different entity structures and advice for choosing the best one for your business.

[10:01] External legal building blocks that every startup founder needs to consider.

[13:01] Some of the most common legal mistakes made by startup founders and founding teams that lead to huge liabilities.

[18:16] Key practices that are correlated with success in the startup world.

[21:46] Factors that commonly cause a startup to fail.

[23:35] How to ensure that your IP is adequately protected.

[26:29] Derrick’s advice for attracting potential investors.

[28:28] Understanding why “not all money is good money.”

[30:33] Why Derrick cautions against founding a startup without legal counsel.

[33:19] The importance of investing in the minority innovation ecosystem.

Resources:

Derrick Maultsby on LinkedIn

Building a Global Hub for Advanced Therapies with Anji Miller

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0000

“Advanced cell and gene therapies are revolutionizing how to approach and treat a wide range of diseases.”

There are few things (if any) more impactful than transforming healthcare for millions of patients, including those with rare and life-threatening diseases. Today’s guest is Anji Miller, and as the Senior Business Manager in the technology transfer team at LifeArc and Skills Lead for the Innovation Hubs for Gene Therapies, she is at the forefront of that transformation.

In this episode, Anji talks about the various challenges involved in building a global hub for advanced therapies, the importance of fostering cross-sector collaboration in the space, how she is working towards enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion so that everybody has access to the care they need, and lots more!

During the course of Anji’s impressive career, she has played a pivotal role in identifying, cultivating, funding, and commercializing early-stage healthcare technologies, so as you can imagine, this conversation is filled to the brim with invaluable insights that you don’t want to miss out on hearing!

In This Episode:

[00:25] The huge investment that has been made to establish a network of gene therapy innovation hubs in the UK.

[01:41] Introducing Anji Miller, Senior Business Manager in the technology transfer team at LifeArc and Skills Lead for the Innovation Hubs for Gene Therapies.

[02:57] Progress that has taken place in the field of advanced therapies in recent years.

[05:47] Some of the major challenges that come with working in the advanced therapies field.

[14:06] The motivation behind creating the Innovation Hubs for Gene Therapies.

[16:34] Keys to fostering collaboration between the many different players involved in the advanced therapies space.

[19:45] Navigating the complex regulatory environment of the advanced therapies space.

[24:21] IP challenges to expect in the advanced therapies space and advice for how to deal with them.

[29:47] Work that Anji is doing to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion in the advanced therapies space and why this is so important.

[35:30] How the LifeArc Philanthropic Fund works and the impact it has had.

[37:53] The transformative potential of the Innovation Hubs.

[40:15] Anji’s hope for the future of the Innovation Hubs.

[43:32] Characteristics that make for a successful career in the advanced therapies or technology transfer space.

Resources:

Anji Miller on LinkedIn

LifeArc

Innovation Hubs for Gene Therapies

Spinning-Out Biotechs: How Timing is Everything with Irene Abrams

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0000

How do you know when an innovation is ready to make its mark in the real world? Successfully spinning-out biotechs is an art; one that today’s guest, Irene Abrams, has a wealth of knowledge about.

Irene is the Vice President of Technology Development and New Ventures at Boston Children's Hospital. She leads the Technology & Innovation Development Office (TIDO), which is responsible for commercializing discoveries and innovations developed at the hospital. She is also the Managing Director of the Technology Development Fund.

During this episode, Irene shares why building meaningful IP is crucial to the success of technology transfer, how she and her team add value to the technologies being developed at Boston Children’s Hospital, their approach to conducting risk assessments, the key factors to consider when it comes to spinning-out, and many more fascinating insights!

In This Episode:

[00:42] An overview of today’s topic: Spinning-Out Biotechs: How Timing is Everything.

[01:21] Introducing the Vice President of Technology Development and New Ventures at Boston Children's Hospital, Irene Abrams.

[02:45] Techniques used by Irene and her team to identify and protect IP.

[03:05] The invaluable role that academic institutions play in driving industry innovations.

[03:39] How patent law has changed over the past two decades (and how TIDO has adjusted its approach to development and innovation as a result).

[06:17] Factors to take into consideration when deciding whether or not a technology is ready for a spin-out.

[10:14] A major challenge of working in the technology transfer field.

[10:53] Examples of technologies TIDO has invested in with the aim of de-risking them.

[12:47] TIDO’s approach to conducting risk assessments.

[15:28] How Boston Children's Hospital incentivizes innovators.

[18:36] Advice for establishing mutually beneficial partnerships.

[23:30] TIDO’s sources of funding (and the additional benefits of these relationships).

[29:50] Social impact that is being driven by TIDO’s work.

[34:04] Key strategies that TIDO uses to get technologies to market.

[36:22] How TIDO stays at the forefront of technology transfer.

[37:16] Effects of the pandemic on the biotechnology industry in Boston.

[41:21] Exciting spin-outs from Boston Children’s Hospital.

[43:56] Noteworthy institutions in the biotechnology space.

Resources:

Irene Abrams on LinkedIn

Technology and Innovation Development Office at Boston Children’s Hospital

Harvard Medical School

Mass General Brigham

Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation

SPARK Stanford

Creating Value on a Global Scale with Dr. Alfred Tan

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 10:47:49 +0000

Technology transfer has the power to bridge gaps not only between industry, academia, and government within a country but also on a global scale!

Today’s guest, Dr. Alfred Tan, has been the Head of the Knowledge Transfer Office at Hong Kong University for 13 years. He also serves as the Deputy Managing Director and a Board member of Versitech Limited.

In this episode, Alfred shares how his office leverages Hong Kong’s close ties to Eastern countries and its Western-style systems to enhance collaboration between the two regions. He talks about the importance of relationship-building, “doing the right thing while doing things right,” and the rapid rate at which Hong Kong’s innovation ecosystem has grown in the past 10 years.

In This Episode:

[00:36] Introducing the Head of the Knowledge Transfer Office at the University of Hong Kong, Dr. Alfred Tan.

[02:16] Why Alfred refers to his technology transfer office as a “bridge.”

[04:13] Factors that make Hong Kong’s technology transfer industry unique in the Asian context.

[09:29] Examples highlighting the focus that is placed on collaboration between industry, academia, and government in Hong Kong.

[15:04] Some of the international technology transfer collaborations that Alfred has been involved with.

[18:52] Exciting developments that have taken place in Hong Kong’s intellectual property space in recent years.

[22:50] Growth that Hong Kong’s startup ecosystem has experienced in the past 15 years.

[27:34] The educational element of the technology transfer industry in Hong Kong.

[29:47] Hong Kong’s approach to thriving in the ever-changing innovation landscape.

[34:45] The value of relationship-building for enhancing international collaborations in the technology transfer field.

[40:55] Doing the right thing while doing things right; the philosophy that Alfred lives by.

Resources:

Dr. Alfred Tan on LinkedIn

University of Hong Kong

Best Practices for Technology Transfer Professionals in the Start-Up World with Kirsten Leute

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Although it is just one aspect of technology transfer, the start-up space is attracting an increasingly large proportion of the interest and support from professionals within (and outside of) the field.

Kirsten Leute (who is currently a partner at Osage University Partners) has spent nearly two decades immersed in the world of innovation. As a result she has witnessed the evolution that has taken place in the field over the years and thus has a broad, unique perspective, which she shares with us today.

Tune into this episode to hear how technology transfer professionals can support start-ups, help founders deal with challenges related to policies and regulations, and create more supportive environments for underrepresented entrepreneurs. The key takeaway from this conversation with Kirsten is that when it comes to effectively building and growing a start-up, one size does not fit all!

In This Episode:

[00:43] Introducing Kirsten Leute, partner at Osage University Partners.

[02:05] How the role of technology transfer professionals has evolved since Kirsten entered the field.

[02:56] Two key ways in which technology transfer professionals can support start-ups.

[04:27] The importance of fostering strong relationships between venture funds and universities in the startup ecosystem.

[06:43] How technology transfer professionals can help founders deal with challenges in the policy and regulation spaces.

[09:07] Why there is no one-size-fits-all approach to effectively building and growing a startup.

[10:56] The value that mentors can provide to first-time founders.

[12:36] Programs to support start-ups and academic institutions that Kirsten has been involved in implementing.

[14:48] Lessons that Kirsten has learned through her diverse work experience.

[16:41] Advice to technology transfer professionals for navigating the often overwhelming nature of the start-up space.

[19:08] How technology transfer professionals can create more supportive environments for underrepresented entrepreneurs.

[19:56] An overview of the results from a survey (that Kirsten was involved with) focusing on the barriers faced by women innovators in university settings.

[22:43] The increased focus on start-ups within and outside the technology transfer profession.

Resources:

Osage University Partners

Kirsten Leute on LinkedIn

‘Engaging More Women in Academic Innovation: Findings and Recommendations’

Navigating the Nagoya Protocol with Dr. Mukul Ranjan

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0000

The Nagoya Protocol is a supplement to the United Nation’s Biodiversity Treaty, and it is reshaping the landscape of scientific research. In this episode, Dr. Mukul Ranjan, a Senior Advisor for Innovation and Technology Transfer at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), is here to explain how.

As a key player in fostering collaborations between the public, private, academic, and non-profit sectors, Dr. Ranjan has firsthand knowledge of how the Nagoya Protocol is impacting scientific research.

During this episode, you’ll gain insights into, among other things, the reasons for the development of the Nagoya Protocol, the challenges of the regulatory landscape now that the Nagoya Protocol is being widely implemented in 130 countries across the globe, and why the US isn’t party to the Nagoya Protocol.

In This Episode:

[01:17] Introducing Dr. Mukul Ranjan, a Senior Advisor for NIAID.

[02:36] The purpose of the Nagoya Protocol.

[05:15] Dr. Ranjan’s thoughts on why a growing number of countries have begun to implement the Nagoya Protocol in recent years.

[06:30] Challenges of conducting international infectious disease research within the new regulatory landscape.

[09:08] How scientists are adapting to the new regulations that are being implemented as a result of the Nagoya Protocol.

[13:13] Dr. Ranajn’s advice for navigating the Nagoya Protocol.

[16:39] Why the US has chosen not to become a party to the Nagoya Protocol and the implications of this.

[22:56] The core principles that the Nagoya Protocol was founded upon.

[24:36] Examples of the benefits that the Nagoya Protocol promises.

[02:34] How Dr. Ranjan believes the Nagoya Protocol will impact international research collaborations in the future.

[28:20] The value of open science.

[29:54] How to foster effective international collaboration in scientific research.

Resources:

Dr. Mukul Ranjan on LinkedIn

Convention on Biological Diversity

German Nagoya Protocol HuB

American Institute of Biological Sciences

The Nagoya Protocol Learning Portal

‘ABS from the Perspective of an Intellectual Property Professional at a Public Research Institution’

Broadening Horizons at the NSA

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 12:03:37 +0000

From the USPTO to the FBI to the NSA (where she has been for ten years), Karen Presley has spent the majority of her career working in public institutions and has always been in some way involved in the creation, protection, or transfer of a wide range of technologies.

After sharing an overview of her fascinating career path (including some of the main challenges of working for the government), Karen delves into one of her current endeavors that she is palpably passionate about; the MSI Working Group CRADA (Cooperative Research and Development Agreement) program.

In this episode, you will learn about the goals of the program, the three research areas that it focuses on, and the huge benefit it is affording universities, students, and the NSA!

In This Episode:

[00:35] Introducing today’s guest, Deputy Director of the Office of Research and Technology Applications at the National Security Agency (NSA), Karen Presley.

[01:39] Where Karen was first introduced to the field of technology transfer and how her career progressed from there.

[05:04] Some of the biggest challenges faced by technology transfer professionals working in the public sector.

[07:33] Karen explains what makes the NSA’s approach to technology transfer unique.

[10:36] The seven categories of Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) as listed in the Higher Education Act.

[11:15] The origins and goals of the MSI Working Group CRADA (Cooperative Research and Development Agreement) program.

[14:04] The three main research areas that the CRADA program focuses on.

[15:38] Examples of how universities within the CRADA program are approaching their research.

[18:25] How the CRADA program benefits the NSA and its partner universities.

[21:14] Karen’s hope for the future of the CRADA program.

Resources:

Karen Presley on LinkedIn

National Security Agency

Minority Serving Institutions (MSI) Working Group (WG) CRADA program

Common Mission Project

Navigating the Future of Blockchain, NFTs, and the Metaverse

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 12:24:17 +0000

I have a very exciting topic for you today - blockchain NFTs and the metaverse. Joining me to discuss their potential impact on intellectual property is Dr. Randy Stout, neurologist and cell biologist serving as the director of New York Institute of Technology’s College of Osteopathic Medicine (NYITCOM) for Biomedical Innovation and the NYIT Imaging Center. His research focuses mainly on understanding the intricate connections between brain cells and their role in various neurological conditions.

NFTs are such a hot topic right now, but what are they, and what is the metaverse? What are some of the common misconceptions? It can be difficult to separate fact from fiction, so Randy helps us tackle these questions. He explains the key difference between the metaverse and the non-metaverse, touches upon tech transfer, elaborates upon the role of augmented reality in the metaverse, shares predictions and hopes about where this technology is headed in the future, and so much more.

In This Episode:

[01:57] Randy explains what NFTs are.

[02:56] Randy addresses misunderstandings about the metaverse.

[05:12] The main difference between the metaverse and other forms of electronic communications is how the user’s interactions function.

[08:04] Where does Randy think tech transfer offices should be directing their attention?

[11:42] It’s important to know the difference between the metaverse and regular electronic communication, and it’s important to keep it in mind when evaluating new tech.

[13:00] Randy talks about how NFTs and the metaverse can enhance medical research.

[15:53] Combining VR with human research, Randy connected with a start-up company in the UK.

[18:41] How does augmented reality play a role in the metaverse?

[22:03] There will be VR glasses and wearables that can let in actual light within 10 to 15 years.

[24:35] Randy and his group have been building things like virtual obstacle courses.

[27:32] VR can be used to detect people’s movements.

[28:55] Randy enthusiastically talks about something exciting on the horizon.

[30:01] Robotics are sometimes combined with VR.

[33:09] Think about the ability for students and faculty to come up with a new idea for a robotics system.

[34:04] How does this affect the tech transfer industry?

[37:27] Randy uses cutting edge microscopes to make amazing discoveries.

[38:23] Randy discusses how AR and VR shape our understanding of neurological disorders.

[41:54] Gap junctions are connections between astrocytes in our brains.

[44:20] Hear about a big component of the AI behind self-driving cars.

[45:11] Randy gives further insight into the VR side of research.

[48:05] Learn about Randy’s collaborative initiatives.

[51:29] They have another study going on right now involving a program that was built with a medical student.

[53:20] How does Randy feel about the intersection of emerging technology in regards to the broader medical community?

[55:42] Technological innovation that improves our lives will hopefully continue.

[56:36] Blockchain will likely be very useful in the future.

Resources:

Randy Stout on LinkedIn

Making the Paths to Commercialization of Inventions More Equitable with Aileen Dingus

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Closing the Gender Gap in Patenting with Intan Hamdan-Livramento, Elodie Carpentier, and Julio Raffo

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 14:41:20 +0000

A Lesson in Effective Communication with Mark Bayer

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Mark Bayer’s career choices (from Capitol Hill to the non-profit sector to consulting) have all been driven by his desire to make a meaningful impact. And make a meaningful impact he has!

Mark is currently the president of Bayer Strategic Consulting, a boutique communications firm that helps universities and research institutes effectively communicate their work to their most important stakeholders.

In this episode, he talks about the factors that are essential for effective communication (from capturing attention to keeping your audience engaged), the RISE System that he has developed, and what you can learn from his podcast and weekly newsletter!

In This Episode:

[00:36] Introducing Mark Bayer, the president of Bayer Strategic Consulting.

[02:05] Mark shares an overview of the journey that led him to the point he is currently at in his career.

[04:19] How Mark learned to convey ideas effectively.

[08:48] Why capturing attention is fundamental to communication.

[10:03] Mark’s advice for how to capture your audience’s attention.

[11:34] How to ensure that you are delivering relevant information that your audience will remember.

[18:22] Mark explains how the RISE System works and why he developed it.

[24:06] The two core focal areas of Mark’s podcast, When Science Speaks.

[28:22] What you can expect from Mark’s weekly newsletter, One for the Week.

[29:39] Mark shares what has driven him to make the career choices that he has.

Resources:

Bayer Strategic Consulting

Mark Bayer on LinkedIn

When Science Speaks

One for the Week

The Power of Collaboration in Technology Transfer with Dr. Anne Lane

Wed, 31 May 2023 07:00:00 +0000

“When the chips are down, everybody can work together.”

For the past 23 years, Dr. Anne Lane has worked at UCLB, prior to which she worked for a spin-out company while completing her MBA, prior to which she was a postdoc at Harvard. With these kinds of credentials, it’s no wonder she has risen to the top of the commercialization space as CEO of the prestigious technology transfer company.

In this episode, Anne shares her thoughts on the power of collaboration between universities, private, and public organizations, and how TenU (which she previously chaired) has helped foster international collaboration and innovation. We also delve into the various reasons why UCLB has been so successful in commercializing technologies that have come out of UCL (including their strong entrepreneurial culture, investor networks and translational funding), how technology transfer at UCLB has evolved over time, and how impactful universities really are!

In This Episode:

[00:41] Introducing Dr. Anne Lane, CEO of UCLB.

[02:07] Where Anne’s interest in technology commercialization originated.

[03:21] Anne’s first job in the commercialization realm.

[04:36] What Anne loves about her job.

[05:58] Intersecting factors that Anne believes have allowed UCLB to achieve the success that is has.

[09:18] Where UCLB’s focus lies and the core teams that the company is made up of.

[12:00] Initiatives UCLB is involved in that support entrepreneurship and innovation.

[13:12] One of UCLB’s most effective funding collaborations.

[16:01] How TenU has been instrumental in fostering international collaboration and innovation.

[18:35] Anne’s thoughts on why enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion is so important for an organization (and how they are creating an environment that cultivates this).

[20:48] How UCLB has progressed over the past 20 years and how Anne sees it continuing to evolve in the future.

[22:41] The difference between the US and European approaches to patenting.

[23:30] A key lesson learning during the pandemic.

[23:47] A statistic that highlights the impact of universities on the economy.

[25:27] Advice for anyone interested in pursuing a career in technology transfer.

Resources:

Dr. Anne Lane on LinkedIn

UCLB

Promoting Curiosity-Driven Research with Tony Raven

Wed, 24 May 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Being a technology transfer professional means being able to engage with some of the most brilliant minds and create meaningful, tangible impacts. That is why Tony Raven believes it is the best career in the world!

Tony has had 25 years of experience in the technology transfer sector, during which he was involved in creating over 100 spin out companies and the commercialization of cutting-edge research.

During our conversation, Tony shares some examples of how technology transfer has changed the world, the difference between use-driven research and curiosity-driven research, why he avoids making predictions about the future, and more!

If you’ve ever wondered, “What has technology transfer ever done for us?” This episode is a must-listen!

In This Episode:

[00:37] Introducing the former CEO of Cambridge Enterprise, Tony Raven.

[01:35] The invaluable role that universities and technology transfer offices played in the pandemic response.

[03:11] Policy changes that have taken place since the pandemic in relation to technology transfer.

[04:19] The importance of communicating the impact of technology transfer on people’s lives.

[07:37] Value in maintaining consistent policies for the technology transfer sector.

[08:51] What technology transfer professionals can do to ensure that the field is taken seriously.

[10:03] Results from a Stanford University study on the relationship between royalty sharing and outcomes.

[11:55] Why Tony avoids making predictions.

[12:53] The value in keeping an open mind.

[15:41] Elements that make being a technology transfer professional the best job in the world, according to Tony.

[17:57] Technology transfer in a post-COVID world.

Resources:

Tony Raven on LinkedIn

Cambridge Enterprise

The Luck Factor

The FLC’s Role in Bringing World-Changing Technologies to Market with Whitney Hastings

Wed, 17 May 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Without the innovative research and development being done by federal labs across the United States and the commercialization being done by the private sector, we may not have GPS, smartphones, or many of the life-saving pharmaceuticals that are available today.

Today’s guest, Dr. Whitney Hastings, leads numerous technology transfer initiatives and manages diverse portfolios at the National Cancer Institute's Technology Transfer Center. She is also the newly elected Board Chair of the Federal Laboratory Consortium (FLC).

In this episode, Whitney shares how the FLC, in partnership with the private sector, is providing society with the tools it needs to tackle the most challenging problems of our time, the different ways in which the FLC recognizes the work being done by the laboratories in their ecosystem, some world-changing technologies that they have played a role in bringing to market, what Whitney hopes to achieve as the Board Chair and more!

In This Episode:

[00:39] Introducing today’s guest, the newly elected Board Chair of the Federal Laboratory Consortium (FLC), Dr. Whitney Hastings.

[02:06] What Whitney loves most about working in the technology transfer field.

[02:54] Some of the most impactful technologies that Whitney has witnessed the development of during her career.

[04:49] Whitney shares what the work of the FLC entails.

[05:34] Promote, educate, facilitate; the FLC’s three strategic pillars.

[05:38] Examples of the wide variety of services offered by the FLC.

[06:54] Whitney shares the trajectory that has led her to her current position in the FLC.

[07:20] Goals that Whitney hopes to achieve as the Board Chair of the FLC.

[08:45] The different ways in which the FLC recognizes the innovative work being done by the laboratories in their ecosystem.

[11:16] Requirements for receiving an award from the different FLC recognition programs.

[12:40] Some of the innovative technologies and partnerships that received FLC awards in 2023.

[15:37] The symbiotic relationship between federal laboratories and the private sector.

[17:21] Strategies that the FLC employs to strengthen the relationship between federal laboratories, the private sector, and technology transfer professionals.

[18:41] Whitney’s advice for federal laboratories looking to commercialize their technologies.

[20:16] Opportunities that are available to anyone interested in pursuing a career in technology transfer.

Resources:

Federal Laboratory Consortium

FLC Business

FLC Digest Newsletter

FLC Learning Center

FLC Awards Program

LabTech in Your Life

Enabling Economic and National Security Through Technology Transfer with Dr. Walter Copan

Wed, 10 May 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Technology transfer is a major driver of economic growth and a promoter of national security. In this episode, Dr. Walter Copan joins us to share some of the key technologies that enable this, some of the biggest challenges that need to be overcome on the innovation pathway, and how to enhance the degree of collaboration between the public and private sectors.

Walter also talks about the importance of having a strong, predictable IP system, why community support is a key component of the technology transfer process, and the factors that require attention in order to ensure that the technology transfer sector reaches its full potential.

Walter is the senior adviser of the Renewing American Innovation Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies and serves as the Vice President for Research and Technology Transfer at the Colorado School of Mines in Golden, Colorado. He was named the 2020 laboratory director of the year by the U.S. Federal Laboratory Consortium and received the 2021 Bayh-Dole Award from AUTM for his contributions to innovation and technology transfer.

In This Episode:

[00:38] One of the key benefits of technology transfer.

[01:09] Introducing Dr. Walter Copan, senior adviser of the Renewing American Innovation Project and Vice President for Research and Technology Transfer at the Colorado School of Mines.

[02:34] Walter explains how technology transfer drives economic growth.

[06:43] The link between national security and economic growth.

[07:52] Why the manufacturing sector is an important source of innovation in the United States.

[09:03] Examples of the technologies that play a major role in national security as well as economic growth.

[11:13] The importance of having a strong, predictable IP system.

[14:11] Some of the biggest obstacles in the innovation process.

[16:56] How to enhance the degree of collaboration between the public and private sectors.

[18:58] Why a supportive community is essential to successful technology transfer.

[21:00] The global impact of the United States’ technology transfer sector.

[24:07] Walter’s thoughts on how the fields of AI and quantum computing are going to affect technology transfer.

[27:57] How to ensure that the full potential of the technology transfer sector is realized.

Resources:

Dr. Walter Copan on LinkedIn

Renewing American Innovation Project

Colorado School of Mines

The Federal Laboratory Consortium: A “National Treasure” with Dick Paul

Wed, 03 May 2023 07:00:00 +0000

The Federal Laboratory Consortium (FLC) is a group of technology transfer professionals from over 300 federal laboratories across the full spectrum of federal agencies. In this episode, we are joined by the Chair of the National Advisory Committee (NAC) of the FLC, Richard (Dick) Paul.

Prior to his current role, Dick was a Major General in the U.S. Air Force, Vice President of the Boeing Company, and First Commander of the Air Force Research Laboratory.

In this episode, Dick explains how the NAC (which is comprised of eight people with a diverse range of backgrounds) supports technology transfer efforts, the skills that are required to commercialize technologies, some of the key trends that he is seeing take place in the technology transfer field and more!

In This Episode:

[00:37] Introducing the Chair of the Federal Laboratory Consortium's (FLC) National Advisory Committee (NAC), Major General Richard (Dick) Paul.

[02:09] An explanation of what the FLC is and the mission of the FLC’s NAC.

[03:10] The length of time that NAC board members typically serve for.

[03:47] Why Dick is so enamored with the technology transfer sector.

[05:50] The role that the FLC plays in supporting technology transfer.

[07:25] What Dick sees as the biggest challenge faced by the FLC.

[08:35] The role of the private sector in commercializing technologies and how the FLC is working towards enhanced collaboration with industry.

[11:10] Skills that are required to take a technology from development to commercialization.

[13:50] How the FLC helps people to commercialize technologies.

[16:18] Dick’s thoughts on some of the main trends that are currently taking place in the technology transfer sphere.

[19:40] The synergy between the FLC and AUTM.

Resources:

Federal Laboratory Consortium

Forging Your Own Path in the Technology Transfer Space with Laura Schoppe

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Today is World Intellectual Property Day, and this year's theme focuses on celebrating the achievements of women in the field of innovation and creativity. Laura is certainly one of the many women who deserve to be celebrated today, not only for her technical and entrepreneurial achievements, but also the work she is doing to lift other women up alongside her!

Women and minorities still face numerous barriers to entry into STEM fields. During this episode, Laura shares what actions should be taken by educational institutions, companies, and organizations to combat these.

Tuning in, you will also hear about the founding story of Laura’s consulting company, Fuentek, and her top pieces of advice on how to set yourself up for a successful career in technology transfer!

In This Episode:

[00:38] The theme of this year’s World Intellectual Property Day!

[01:02] Introducing today’s guest, Laura Schoppe, founder and president of Fuentek LLC.

[02:09] An overview of Laura’s career trajectory to date.

[04:05] The initial steps to take when you embark on the journey of founding a business.

[05:08] What made Fuentek an unusual company at the time of its founding in 2001.

[05:38] The value of going after government contracts as a technology transfer professional.

[06:21] Some of the biggest challenges that Laura has faced since founding Fuentek.

[09:08] How to get more women and minorities into STEM fields.

[11:30] Support that Fuentek provides to small businesses.

[15:55] How to set yourself up for a successful career in technology transfer.

[20:03] How companies do to create a more inclusive workplace culture (using Laura’s personal experience as an example).

[22:03] Laura’s thoughts on what can and should be done about the problem of unconscious bias in the workplace.

[28:01] Examples of how to help inventors overcome the barriers to entry into the technology transfer space.

[31:10] The importance of celebrating women innovators.

Resources:

Laura Schoppe on LinkedIn

Fuentek

FIRST North Carolina

Embracing Neurodiversity in Science and Technology

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 07:00:00 +0000

When people with different ways of thinking collaborate effectively, magic happens!

Some people think visually, some verbally, some mathematically, and some a combination of all three. Today’s guest, Dr. Temple Grandin, is a Professor of Animal Science, author, speaker, and a trailblazer in the field of autism advocacy. Temple is an autistic person who describes herself as an “extreme visual thinker,” and in this episode, she explains why the world needs neurodiversity!

From the barriers that neurodiverse individuals commonly experience in the workplace to advice for creating more supportive places for different thinkers, tune in today to get an idea of what the world looks like from Temple’s perspective.

In This Episode:

[00:53] Introducing Animal Science Professor and autism advocacy trailblazer Dr. Temple Grandin.

[02:15] The importance of visual thinking in the realm of animal science.

[06:24] Temple’s thoughts on how to increase neurodiversity in the technology transfer field.

[08:37] How neurodiversity leads to better outcomes.

[11:30] Advice for working with neurodiverse people.

[15:25] Examples of how to leverage the skills of visual thinkers.

[17:17] Temple’s approach to overcoming challenges she has faced in the workplace.

[19:13] The value of different ways of thinking.

[21:04] Advice for neurodiverse people interested in pursuing a career in STEM.

[22:00] Vital elements that are missing from the school curriculum.

[23:21] Research that Temple is currently conducting around horse perception.

[25:39] An example that highlights what can happen when people with different ways of thinking collaborate effectively.

[29:12] What keeps Temple inspired.

[31:39] The transformative power of early intervention.

Resources:

Temple Grandin

Temple Grandin on LinkedIn

Temple Grandin Books

The World Needs All Kinds of Minds (TED Talk)

WARF’s Role in the Passage of the Bayh-Dole Act with Kevin Walters

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 07:00:00 +0000

A combination of factors enabled the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation (WARF) to successfully create the first university technology transfer office while others around them failed. The role that this institution has played in shaping our world is monumental.

In this episode, we pick up where we left off in our previous conversation, and Kevin Walters shares the story of WARF in the wake of Harry Steenbock’s vitamin D patent (which was ultimately dedicated to the public in 1946).

Kevin also explains the circumstances that led to the passage of the Bayh-Dole Act and the work that he is now doing at WARF since completing his (fascinating) dissertation.

In This Episode:

[01:06] Factors that enabled WARF’s success in establishing the first technology transfer office.

[02:47] When other universities started having success in the technology transfer field.

[04:32] Companies that Harry Steenbock’s vitamin D patent was licensed to.

[07:16] How the New Deal impacted WARF and Steenbock’s patent.

[10:28] The legal battle that WARF was involved in relating to Steenbock’s patent.

[11:44] The ultimate fate of Steenbock’s patent.

[12:30] How the post-war environment led to the passing of the Bayh-Dole Act.

[21:00] Work that Kevin has been doing since completing his dissertation.

Resources:

Kevin Walters on LinkedIn

Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation

Vitamania

The Founding Story of the First Technology Transfer Office with Kevin Walters

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 07:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we’re taking a trip back to the time before the establishment of the very first university technology transfer office in the United States in 1925.

A set of fortuitous circumstances in Kevin Walters’ life gave him the opportunity to write a Ph.D. dissertation on the history of the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation (WARF), where he has worked for the past 12 years.

In this episode, Kevin explains how the discoveries that stubborn scientist Dr. Harry Steenbock made about vitamin D led to the filing of a patent which became the basis for the creation of WARF.

This is just the beginning of the story, so be sure to tune in next week for part two.

In This Episode:

[01:05] An overview of Kevin Walters’ educational and career trajectory to date.

[02:11] The origin story of Kevin’s journey at WARF.

[03:29] How Kevin’s dissertation topic came about.

[08:39] Factors that led to the establishment of the first technology transfer office at Madison-Wisconsin.

[12:59] Breakthroughs made by Stephen Babcock in the late 19th century.

[18:00] Why Dr. Harry Steenbock is central to the founding story of WARF.

[20:07] The story of George Keto.

[22:29] Advantages and disadvantages of Dr. Steenbock’s controlling personality.

[25:15] A central argument of Kevin’s dissertation.

[26:07] Dr. Steenbock’s first patent.

[30:11] The discovery that led to the patent which became the basis for the creation of WARF.

[33:38] Factors that enabled the creation of WARF.

Resources:

Kevin Walters on LinkedIn

Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation

Technology Transfer as a Powerful Force of Change: A South African Perspective with Dr. Ncebakazi Galada

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Although South Africa’s technology transfer sector might not yet be as advanced as other parts of the world, there are some very exciting developments taking place in the field, and the future is looking bright.

In today’s episode, Dr. Ncebakazi Galada, a Technology Transfer Manager at Innovus (a division of Stellenbosch University), joins us to discuss how she and her team are helping to commercialize technologies that will have a positive impact on her country (which has high rates of crime and unemployment) as well as the rest of the world.

Dr. Galada has an MBA, a Ph.D. in Biotechnology, and over a decade of experience in research and innovation management and during this episode she also shares some of the biggest challenges they are facing, the process that they follow to take an invention forward, and advice to anyone interested in a career in technology transfer.

In This Episode:

[00:37] Introducing Dr. Ncebakazi Galada, a Technology Transfer Manager at Innovus, Stellenbosch University.

[01:48] The current state of technology transfer in South Africa and the biggest challenges being faced by technology transfer offices in the country.

[03:47] Examples of the positive impact that technology transfer can have on a country.

[05:32] The strong relationships that Innovus has with industry partners.

[06:22] An overview of the process Innovus goes through to take an invention forward.

[08:06] Value that has come from Innovus’ collaboration with Winetech.

[10:20] The role of technology transfer in the humanities and arts fields.

[12:15] Support that Innovus offers to researchers and inventors to help them navigate the technology transfer process.

[14:07] The size and structure of the Innovus team.

[16:20] How Innovus ensures the protection of the IP rights of its researchers and inventors.

[19:01] What Ncebakazi’s career journey has looked like to date.

[20:55] How technology transfer has evolved in South Africa in recent years.

[22:41] Opportunities for growth in the South African technology transfer sector.

[24:30] Transformation that is taking place in terms of diversity, equity, and inclusion in South Africa.

[27:11] Advice for anyone interested in a career in technology transfer.

Resources:

Dr. Ncebakazi Galada on LinkedIn

Innovus, Stellenbosch University

Breaking Barriers in Vaccine Development with Dr. Maria Elena Bottazzi

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Dr. Maria Elena Bottazzi is a highly accomplished vaccinologist and global health advocate for neglected tropical diseases. She’s Associate Dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine, Professor of Pediatrics, and Co-director of Texas Children’s Hospital Center for Vaccine Development at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas.

She has over two decades of experience, numerous awards, and over 120 scientific papers. She’s dedicated her career to developing vaccines for neglected diseases through partnerships and sustainable biotechnology. I’m privileged to speak with her today.

We talk about how her journey began. Growing up in Honduras, she experienced the effects of tropical and contagious diseases firsthand. She also shares how she had a love for biological science and a desire to help the often-overlooked people in these communities.

She shares how her team thinks outside the box to find partners for researching and developing neglected but needed vaccines. She shares some history on the Chagas vaccine and how coronavirus research in 2010 led to vaccines being developed and authorized in India and Indonesia, which led to over 100 million people being vaccinated. Dr. Bottazzi is truly an inspiration.

In This Episode:

[02:41] Dr. Bottazzi grew up in Honduras which is plagued with many tropical, infectious, and emerging pathogens. She saw these diseases first hand and had a love for the biological sciences.

[03:54] After high school, she studied microbiology where she learned how pathogens interact with the host and how to develop interventions to cure or protect from these pathogens. By creating these tools, she became involved with vaccine development.

[05:10] She was intentional about surrounding herself with people who could help her increase her scientific ability and better her soft skills and interactions with other people.

[07:49] Tropical diseases that occurred in pockets of poverty seemed to be neglected. Dr. Bottazzi and her coworkers wanted to adopt these diseases as a model to control diseases like Chagas.

[09:44] They developed a non-profit partnership model to develop vaccines for these overlooked diseases.

[13:21] In 2010, they noticed corona viruses weren't a very high priority, so they started learning about them. They worked on SARS and MERS vaccines. They were ready when the emergency came up, but faced challenges with regulations and lack of focus on global access.

[17:03] Breakthroughs include not dropping the ball and empowering local developing company manufacturers. They impacted millions of lives.

[18:46] Dr. Bottazzi shares some of her biggest lessons learned and has a focus on creativity, courage, collaboration, cognizance, and use of cultural intelligence.

[22:05] The importance of keeping guiding principles along with having diplomacy.

[24:02] we discuss building a relationship with people in technology and collaboration. Partners can go along with you and help create the best path for your work.

[26:14] Partners are the key to success whether public or private.

[28:27] Dr. Bottazzi shares her hopes for the future of vaccine development.

[32:31] Promoting diversity and inclusion in the scientific community. This includes talking about it and finding ways to show we’re doing it.

Resources:

Maria Elena Bottazzi, Ph.D. Baylor College of Medicine

Dr. Maria Elena Bottazzi Texas Children’s Hospital

Maria Elena Bottazzi LinkedIn

Maria Elena Bottazzi Twitter

Revolutionizing Innovation: Highlights from the 2022 WIPO-AUTM International Knowledge and Technology Transfer Leadership Summit with Steve Susalka

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 07:00:00 +0000

The 2022 WIPO-AUTM International Knowledge and Technology Transfer Leadership Summit involved the coming together of leaders from 29 countries and territories across the world to discuss the current state of practice and the future direction of the field.

Some key topics covered during the summit included models for government funding, the advancement of diversity, equity, and inclusion across the entire ecosystem, and impact measurement.

Joining us today to share an overview of some of the most valuable outputs from the summit is AUTM CEO Steve Susalka. So, tune in today to hear about the exciting developments taking place in the world of innovation!

In This Episode:

[00:34] The intention behind the summit held by AUTM and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).

[03:35] The two main content areas covered at the summit (and the other “hot topics” that were discussed).

[05:01] Examples of how government funding for knowledge and technology transfer is allocated in different parts of the world.

[06:58] Steve explains why the technology transfer field is analogous to a road that links places together or the wiring that converts electricity into light.

[08:33] Why the fact that government funding for knowledge and technology transfer is often project-based is concerning.

[09:45] The overall goal of the knowledge and technology transfer field.

[10:35] What the ‘Triple Impact KPIs’ approach is (and examples of countries that are implementing it).

[12:18] Programs that are working towards closing the gender gap in innovation.

[14:23] The importance of early education in creating a more robust and diverse pipeline of innovators.

[17:40] Recommendations discussed at the summit for how to raise researchers’ awareness of the impact of their work on society.

[20:11] The best ways to measure impact and value.

[21:26] Plans for future WIPO-AUTM Leadership Summits.

Resources:

Stephen Susalka on LinkedIn

WIPO

Summary of WIPO-AUTM Leadership Summit

Bringing Innovation to Impact through the USPTO with Kathi Vidal

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 08:00:00 +0000

With a background in electrical engineering and law and a passion for creating impact, Kathi Vidal is brilliantly suited to her role as the Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

During this episode, you will hear about Kathi’s career trajectory, the organizations that she is involved with, and the factors that motivate her to do what she does.

The USPTO is focused on fostering innovation, particularly in key technology areas such as NFTs, AI, and emerging technologies. Kathi explains their approach to helping turn ideas into businesses and how they enhance diversity and equity, and inclusion within and outside their organization!

In This Episode:

[00:33] Introducing today’s guest, Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office, Kathi Vidal.

[02:05] How Kathi ended up at university at the age of 16 and why she chose to study electrical engineering.

[03:43] Where Kathi has drawn her inspiration from throughout her career in the private and public sectors.

[04:04] The various organizations that Kathi is involved with.

[05:58] Kathi explains the importance of enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

[07:22] The process of developing the USPTO’s action-packed 2022-2026 Strategic Plan.

[09:42] Focal areas for the USPTO’s innovation-fostering efforts.

[12:06] An overview of the USPTO’s Legal Experience and Advancement Program (LEAP).

[15:00] The two overlapping pro bono services offered by the USPTO that help entrepreneurs turn their ideas into products and businesses.

Resources:

Kathi Vidal

Taking Diversity Further in STEM with Tarianna Stewart

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Breaking Down Barriers in the Innovation Ecosystem with Almesha Campbell

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 21:15:00 +0000

Today’s guest is a first-generation university graduate, the Assistant Vice President for Research and Economic Development at Jackson State University, the first Black Chair of the Board of Directors for AUTM, a Ph.D. holder, and a mother of two.

Almesha is a trailblazer in the technology transfer field and a true asset to the industry. Her unwavering commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship, especially among underrepresented populations, has earned her recognition and accolades from numerous organizations.

During this episode, Almesha Campbell talks about her educational and career background, the people in her life who have influenced and motivated her to be the best version of herself, her goals of enhancing equity, diversity, and inclusion far beyond the borders of her university, and the strategic initiatives that she will be focusing on at AUTM in the coming year.

In This Episode:

[00:40] Introducing Almesha Campbell, the Chair of the Board of Directors for AUTM.

[01:42] What Almesha aims to achieve while holding her current position.

[03:34] An overview of Almesha’s career journey to date.

[05:26] The mentors who have played an influential role in Almesha’s life.

[11:33] The problem with having a lack of diversity at the leadership level.

[15:52] Exploring the programs that foster innovation and entrepreneurship at Jackson State University and beyond.

[23:15] Advice for establishing successful innovation-focused university-based programs.

[26:59] Lessons that Almesha learned from her mother and grandmother that have shaped her into the person she is today and how she is passing those lessons on to those around her.

[31:57] Why the underrated skill of listening is foundational to enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

[34:05] Barriers to enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion and Almesha’s thoughts on how those can be broken down.

[37:25] Four key strategic initiatives that Almesha plans to bring to life at AUTM in the coming year.

Resources:

Almesha Campbell on LinkedIn

What To Expect From the 2023 AUTM Annual Meeting with Ian McClure

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 08:00:00 +0000

If you’re looking to network with thousands of technology transfer professionals, enhance your knowledge, or for opportunities to give back to the AUTM community, the AUTM Annual Meeting in Austin is the place to be in one week's time! Today’s guest is Ian McClure, Chair of the AUTM Board, who is here to share what you can expect from both the in-person and hybrid versions of this highly anticipated event.

In This Episode:

[01:22] The size of the upcoming AUTM Annual Meeting.

[01:38] What to expect from the hybrid version of the AUTM Annual Meeting.

[03:18] How AUTM decides where to host the Annual Meeting.

[03:44] Why you should attend the AUTM Annual Meeting.

[04:46] Some of the add-on courses that will be on offer at the Meeting.

[06:30] The opportunity to lace up your running shoes for Team AUTM (and raise money while doing so!)

[07:28] Work being done by the AUTM Foundation.

Resources:

Dr. Ian McClure on LinkedIn

AUTM Annual Meeting 2023

AUTM Connect

AUTM Foundation

Austin Marathon

Unlocking Inclusivity in Innovation: The AUTM EDI Toolkit

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 08:00:00 +0000

From Idea to Impact: The Finalists of the 2023 Better World Awards

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 08:00:00 +0000

AUTM’s Better World Project recognizes and honors innovative technologies that have the potential to make a significant positive impact on society. In this episode, I speak with the three finalists for the Better Word Project Award.

The first nomination is a novel protein sub-unit vaccine that has overcome issues relating to the cost, scalability, and storage of other vaccines. Nomination number two is the iStent ocular tube which treats glaucoma, an eye condition that is the leading cause of blindness worldwide. The third nomination is a non-invasive therapy that effectively treats numerous neurological disorders.

Listen to this episode to learn about each nominee and then cast your vote for the technology you think is most deserving of the BWP Award! [Voting closes at 3 p.m. Central Time on February 21]

In This Episode:

[00:41] The goal of the Better World Project (BWP).

[00:59] Introducing the first BWP nomination, a novel protein sub-unit vaccine developed by scientists at Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital.

[02:19] Issues relating to cost, scalability, and storage of most COVID-19 vaccines.

[04:34] How the scientists at Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital have overcome these challenges.

[07:35] The role of universities in the commercialization and distribution of vaccines.

[11:43] Factors that Brad Kairdolf and his team took into consideration when they decided not to file for a patent for the vaccine.

[15:16] Successes that Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital have seen since the development of the vaccine.

[02:34] Introducing the second BWP nomination, the iStent ocular tube developed by Dr. Richard Hill.

[18:02] Alvin Viray explains what glaucoma is and what causes it.

[19:39] How the iStent ocular tube works and the journey to commercialize it.

[23:26] Why the iStent is preferable to traditional glaucoma treatment options.

[26:15] Alvin shares his thoughts on how this technology will evolve in the future.

[27:22] Introducing the third BWP nomination, EKKO Wave Therapeutic Device, which uses vibrational waves to non-invasively treat neurological disorders.

[28:23] A few things you probably didn’t know about the National University of Sciences & Technology (NUST).

[29:17] Dr. Rizwan Riaz explains how the EKKO Wave Therapeutic Device works and the R&D process involved in developing it.

[31:01] Neurological disorders that the EKKO Wave Therapeutic Device can treat.

[31:56] Comparing the EKKO Wave Therapeutic Device to more traditional neurological therapies.

[32:53] The process of commercializing the EKKO Wave Therapeutic Device.

[34:09] Revolutionary potential of the EKKO Wave Therapeutic Device.

Resources:

The Better World Project

Baylor College of Medicine

Texas Children's Hospital

iStent

Glaukos

EKKO

National University of Sciences & Technology

Technology Transfer: A Singaporean Perspective with Hui Ying Ang

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 08:00:00 +0000

“Don’t underestimate the impact you can bring to the innovation ecosystem.”

Culture shapes almost all aspects of society, including the innovation ecosystem. In today’s episode, we have our first guest from Singapore, Dr. Hui Ying Ang, who is here to provide us with a better understanding of the technology transfer field in her country.

Hui Ying is an associate director with the Industry Liaison Office (ILO) from the National University of Singapore, and in this episode she explains how she first became aware of technology commercialization, the challenges that she has faced since entering the technology transfer space, the four main approaches that the National University of Singapore uses to support technology transfer efforts, and more!

In This Episode:

[00:55] Introducing Dr. Hui Ying Ang, associate director of the ILO at the National University of Singapore (and the first Singaporean guest on the podcast!)

[02:05] The experience that led Hui Ying into the world of technology transfer after she completed her Ph.D.

[03:46] Hui Ying’s advice to anyone new to the technology transfer profession.

[05:12] Elements of the technology transfer industry that still surprise Hui Ying five years after she entered it.

[06:30] Hui Ying provides an overview of the technology transfer process at the National University of Singapore.

[08:04] The four main approaches that the National University of Singapore uses to support technology transfer efforts.

[09:50] Some of the main grants that support the commercialization of technologies in Singapore.

[10:32] Common problems that Hui Ying has faced as a technology transfer professional.

[13:34] Achievements that Hui Ying is most proud of.

[14:41] How Singaporean culture and ideals shape the innovation ecosystem in the country.

[16:21] Gender discrepancies in STEM fields in Singapore, and what is being done to encourage women to enter these spaces.

[17:57] Hui Ying’s hope for the future of technology transfer.

Resources:

Dr. Hui Ying Ang on LinkedIn

National University of Singapore

The Value of the AUTM Licensing Survey to the Technology Transfer Field with John Miner

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 15:53:00 +0000

Every year, hundreds of institutions take part in the AUTM Annual Licensing Activity Survey, and John Miner, as the Chair of the AUTM Metrics and Surveys Portfolio, plays an integral role in the production and dissemination of this very powerful tool.

Since the early ‘90s, the AUTM Licensing Survey has been collecting data from universities, federal laboratories, and other research institutions with the aim of providing a holistic view of the trends in the technology transfer industry.

In today’s episode, John shares how he became involved with the AUTM Licensing Survey, examples of the questions that are asked in the survey (and how these questions have changed over the years), and why this information is so valuable to the technology transfer field.

In This Episode:

[00:53] What the AUTM Annual Licensing Activity Survey is.

[01:05] Introducing today’s guest, John Miner.

[02:19] John shares how he became involved in the AUTM Licensing Survey.

[05:20] Who the AUTM Licensing Survey is aimed at.

[05:55] Examples of the questions asked in the AUTM Licensing Survey.

[06:45] Why the AUTM Licensing Survey is valuable to the technology transfer field as a whole.

[10:22] How the AUTM Licensing Survey technology can be used by technology transfer offices.

[15:01] Benefits of the STATT Database.

[17:00] The typical number of responses that the AUTM Licensing Survey receives.

[17:20] Why 2022 was a challenging year for the AUTM Licensing Survey.

[19:56] How to use the AUTM Licensing Survey data to your advantage.

[23:49] How the AUTM Licensing Survey has changed over the years.

Resources:

John Miner on LinkedIn

AUTM Annual Licensing Activity Survey

AUTM Better World Project

Building a More Inclusive Workforce with Patricia Cullum

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Technology Transfer in Educational Institutions vs. the Federal Government with Trina Voss

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 08:00:00 +0000

After working as an interrogator for the US Army and running a scuba shop (among other things), Trina spent 15 years working in technology transfer departments at educational institutions before moving to the Portland VA Medical Center, where she is currently a Technology Transfer Specialist (and the only VA technology transfer professional in the state of Oregon).

Although her title contains the word specialist, her very diverse educational and career background makes her more of a generalist and, as you will hear today, has benefited her enormously in her career.

During this episode, Trina shares why she chose to move from educational institutions to the federal government, the similarities and differences between the two spheres, and her advice for anyone considering making the transition.

In This Episode:

[00:40] Introducing Trina Voss, a Technology Transfer Specialist at the Portland VA Medical Center

[02:04] An overview of Trina’s diverse educational and career background.

[03:53] The email that came at just the right moment in Trina’s life.

[04:50] Why Trina thinks of herself as a generalist and how this has benefited her as a technology transfer professional.

[06:30] Trina shares what motivated her to advance her career through technology transfer certifications and what she learned from them.

[08:10] Why, after 15 years working in technology transfer in educational institutions, Trina moved to the federal government (and some of the biggest differences between the two).

[09:59] The primary goal of VA Medical Centers.

[10:56] Challenges that VA Medical Centers face.

[11:58] How Trina’s time working in university technology transfer offices prepared her for her current role.

[14:41] Trina’s biggest challenge and biggest success at the Portland VA Medical Center.

[16:54] What Trina is most proud of.

[17:52] Advice for any technology transfer professionals thinking about transitioning move from an academic institution to a government one.

Resources:

Trina Voss on LinkedIn

A Year of AUTM Advocacy with Mike Waring

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 08:00:00 +0000

For the last episode of the year, we are doing a deep dive into what AUTM’s 2022 advocacy activities have consisted of. It was a fruitful and energizing year for AUTM (though not without its fair share of challenges), and there is nobody better than today’s guest, Mike Waring, to share this overview with us.

Mike has been involved in Washington politics for over 40 years and is currently a consultant to AUTM on advocacy issues and chair of AUTM’s Public Policy Advisory Committee.

In this informative and insightful episode, we discuss the benefits of the CHIPS and Science Act, the problems with the DOE’s Declaration of Exceptional Circumstances, AUTM’s approach to preventing unrestricted access to patented therapeutics and diagnostics, and more. This conversation will leave you feeling grateful for the work that AUTM is doing and excited about the year ahead.

In This Episode:

[00:50] Introducing today’s guest, AUTM consultant Mike Waring.

[01:55] Examples of AUTM’s advocacy activities in 2022.

[02:16] Some of the challenges that AUTM faced over the past year.

[03:34] Mike explains how the CHIPS and Science Act came into being and how it will benefit technology transfer offices.

[08:37] Understanding the DOE’s Declaration of Exceptional Circumstances and how AUTM has responded to it.

[11:49] The issue of march-in rights and AUTM’s approach to pushing back against them.

[15:35] The role that AUTM has played in preventing unrestricted access to patented therapeutics and diagnostics.

[18:27] What the Pride in Patent Ownership Act is and why it is a dangerous proposal.

[22:16] Reasons for optimism with respect to Section 101.

[26:40] Mike’s thoughts on what technology transfer offices should focus on in the coming years.

[30:25] Details about the special panel that Mike is going to be a part of at the 2023 AUTM Annual Meeting.

Resources:

2023 AUTM Annual Meeting

Bridging the Gap Between Industry and Academia in Hong Kong with Dr. Victor Lau

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 08:00:00 +0000

With a PhD and 20 years of experience working in the semiconductor field, Dr. Victor Lau makes for the perfect middleman between industry and academia. Today, he is the Associate Director of the Knowledge Transfer Office at the City University of Hong Kong.

In this episode, Victor gives us insight into what technology transfer looks like in Hong Kong, how his office supports inventors and entrepreneurs, and some of the biggest challenges they face.

International perspectives offer a valuable learning opportunity, and Victor has a wealth of knowledge that he has gained from his wide-ranging experiences that will benefit technology transfer professionals across the world.

In This Episode:

[01:41] Victor shares the journey that led him to the world of technology transfer.

[03:30] What to expect as a new entrant into the technology transfer profession.

[04:58] The three stages of technology transfer in Hong Kong.

[05:38] How Hong Kong’s ITF program works.

[07:08] The startup program that was established at the City University of Hong Kong in 2021.

[08:01] Support that Victor’s office offers to inventors and entrepreneurs.

[08:38] The size of Victor’s office.

[09:02] The biggest challenges that Victor and his team face when working to commercialize a technology.

[11:30] How Victor established relationships with the inventors and students at the City University of Hong Kong.

[13:24] What Victor is most proud of in his current role.

[14:19] How the Hong Kong trading culture influences the technology transfer sector.

[15:31] The importance of always being open-minded.

[16:16] Gender diversity in Hong Kong and the work being done to enhance it.

[19:24] Victor’s hopes for the future of technology transfer in Hong Kong.

Resources:

Dr. Victor Lau on LinkedIn

Dangers of the Proposed TRIPS Waiver Expansion with Patrick Kilbride

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 08:00:00 +0000

There is a common and dangerous misconception that IP rights merely serve as a way for big companies in wealthy countries to acquire more wealth. This is one of the key drivers behind the movement to expand the TRIPS waiver.

During this episode, the Senior Vice President of the US Chamber of Commerce's Global Innovation Policy Center (GIPC), Patrick Kilbride, explains why the TRIPS Agreement came into being in the first place, why the current TRIPS waiver is unnecessary, and why the proposed expansion will be harmful to the innovation industry.

At this crucial juncture, it is vital that more people begin to understand that IP rights are opportunities, not costs and that it is in everybody’s best interests to protect them.

In This Episode:

[00:37] The harm that will be caused by the proposed extension of the current TRIPS waiver.

[03:00] Patrick explains the intention behind the creation of the TRIPS Agreement.

[04:03] Why the TRIPS Agreement has been contested since it came into being.

[05:42] Factors contributing to the decision to waive certain commitments under the TRIPS Agreement.

[06:34] Patrick explains the enabling functions of IP protections.

[09:22] The mindset shift around IP that is required.

[10:25] Why Patrick believes the TRIPS waiver is unnecessary.

[14:13] Patrick’s thoughts on the proposed broadening of the TRIPS waiver.

[16:35] The negative effects that a broadening of the TRIPS waiver will likely have on the innovation industry.

[19:23] Driving forces behind the push to expand the TRIPS waiver.

[20:19] The reason that IP rights exist.

[21:34] Why the Biden Administration supported the TRIPS waiver and where it stands on the proposed expansion.

[24:53] How the AUTM community can prevent the expansion of the TRIPS waiver.

Resources:

Patrick Kilbride on LinkedIn

In Defense of Bayh-Dole with Joe Allen

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 08:00:00 +0000

In the period following World War 2, government policy stipulated that whenever anything was invented using government funding, it would be put into the public domain. This may sound like an honorable idea, but the problem was that nothing was being commercialized because there was no incentive to do so.

Since 1980, thanks to the Bayh-Dole Act, the commercialization of inventions has been in the hands of the inventors, and this has led the United States to become one of the most innovative nations in the world. However, for over 20 years, people have been fighting (unsuccessfully) against the Act, trying to distort its original goal.

We’re in the midst of one of those conflicts right now, so tune in today to hear from Joe Allen, the Executive Director of the Bayh-Dole Coalition who was instrumental in the passage of the Bayh-Dole Act, about the importance of keeping this Act intact and the grave consequences we face if we do not.

In This Episode:

[00:58] Introducing today’s guest, Joe Allen, the Executive Director of the Bayh-Dole Coalition.

[02:01] The purpose of the Bayh-Dole Act and how some lawmakers are trying to distort it.

[03:37] The problem with the way government-funded inventions were treated in the period following WWII.

[04:48] How Senator Bayh and Senator Dole transformed the innovation environment in the United States in 1980.

[06:24] The intention behind the March-In Rights provision in the Bayh-Dole Act.

[09:25] What opponents of the Bayh-Dole Act misunderstand about it.

[12:21] A real-world example of the Bayh-Dole Act in action.

[15:58] What the Bayh-Dole Act does and does not guarantee.

[17:23] The issues we will face if the March-In provision is used for price control.

[19:48] Why there is no case law that allows for March-In under Bayh-Dole.

[20:09] Complexities of the March-In process.

[22:10] Joe explains the link between the attempted misuse of the Bayh-Dole March-In Rights to the proposed abuse of Section 1498.

[27:42] How to protect the Bayh-Dole Act.

Resources:

Joe Allen on LinkedIn

Bayh-Dole Coalition

Supporting Indigenous Entrepreneurs with Brian Ellerman

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Tribal communities comprise 4.3% of the Arizona population, but less than 1% of businesses in the state are Native American owned. Through the Native FORGE program, Brian Ellerman’s goal is to change that.

They only received funding for the first time in September 2022, but through the success of the Native FORGE conference, the positive responses they have received from indigenous communities so far, and their commitment to professional development, Brian and his team have already begun to demonstrate the sustainability and scalability of the program.

Listen to this episode to hear how Native FORGE is empowering indigenous entrepreneurs and uplifting local tribal economies in a way that differs from any programs that have come before it.

In This Episode:

[00:38] Introducing the Native FORGE program and its founder, Brian Ellerman.

[02:02] Brian’s educational background and how he ended up in his current position at Arizona University.

[04:15] The founding story of the Native FORGE program.

[05:24] Brian explains how the Native FORGE program encourages tribal entrepreneurship and helps build tribal economies.

[08:06] How the Native FORGE program differs from other tribal-focused programs that have failed in the past.

[09:19] The two key constraints to the scalability of the Native FORGE program.

[09:44] Responses that the Native FORGE program has received from tribal communities so far.

[11:38] An overview of the Tribal Data Training, Development, and Assessment Program.

[13:01] The professional development opportunities that are offered by the Native FORGE program.

[20:02] How Native FORGE plans to form relationships with the majority of the tribal communities in Arizona.

[22:45] Positive outcomes of the recent Native FORGE conference.

[24:53] Plans Brian has to expand the Native FORGE program in the future.

[26:46] Why Brian sees collaboration amongst universities as key to the success and scalability of the Native FORGE program.

Resources:

Native FORGE

Arizona FORGE

Brian Ellerman on LinkedIn

Making Technology Transfer Visible in the Czech Republic with Růžena Štemberková

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 08:00:00 +0000

The Czech Republic may be a small country, but they are certainly not a small player in the technology transfer field. And that is largely thanks to today’s guest, Růžena Štemberková.

Růžena is the Head of the TTO at the University of South Bohemia, the vice chair of Transfera.cz, and a member of a number of well-established technology transfer organizations.

During our conversation, Růžena talks about the challenging leap she took into the world of technology transfer, how she has been working towards enhancing the visibility of the technology transfer field in the Czech Republic, the innovation that she is most proud of having been involved in commercializing, her hopes for the future, and more!

In This Episode:

[00:39] Introducing today’s guest, Růžena Štemberková.

[01:50] Růžena shares how she became involved in the technology transfer field.

[03:33] The topic of Růžena’s Ph.D.

[05:02] Inspiration behind the founding of Transfera.cz, of which Růžena is the vice chair.

[05:58] What Transfera.cz has achieved over the past few years.

[07:29] How the University of South Bohemia (where Růžena is the head of the Technology Transfer Office) supports technology transfer.

[09:44] The network of government and private entities that assist the University of South Bohemia in developing innovations.

[10:46] How Růžena’s office enhances awareness about technology transfer.

[13:04] A positive impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

[13:38] Examples of how Růžena’s office is aiming to make technology transfer more accessible across the Czech Republic.

[15:38] Růžena’s approach to dealing with the challenges that she faces with commercializing technology.

[16:57] Examples of the licenses that the Unversity of South Bohemia has received.

[18:53] The innovation that Růžena is most proud of being involved in commercializing.

[21:05] Růžena shares her hopes for the future of technology transfer in the Czech Republic and on a global scale.

Resources:

Růžena Štemberková on LinkedIn

University of South Bohemia

Why the World Needs Technology Transfer with Sami Bashir

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Technology transfer has the ability to bring about enormous positive benefits for the world, and with the multitude of issues that we are currently facing, we need technology transfer professionals more than ever.

The Director of Technology Management and Innovation at Khalifa University is Dr. Sami Bashir, our guest on today’s episode. During our conversation, Sami shares how his passion for R&D led him to the field of technology transfer and provides an overview of his experiences working in different areas of the Gulf region.

His team has only been around for seven years, but they have managed to achieve a lot in this short space of time. Tune in to hear about the challenges they face, how they tackle them, and what they hope to improve upon in the future.

In This Episode:

[00:38] Introducing today’s guest, Dr. Sami Bashir.

[02:25] The origins of Sami’s passion for R&D.

[03:45] Sami’s journey in the field of technology transfer.

[05:50] The evolving state of technology transfer in the Gulf region.

[08:52] The three departments at Khalifa University that focus on technology transfer and innovation.

[12:58] How the government in Abu Dhabi supports the creation and commercialization of innovations.

[15:22] Sami explains how he and his team are trying to raise awareness around technology transfer.

[18:56] The biggest challenge that Sami and his team face during the commercialization process.

[23:23] The number of licenses Sami and his team do annually.

[25:47] Sami’s thoughts on the importance of technology transfer.

Resources:

Sami Bashir on LinkedIn

Taking the Complexity Out of PCT with Matthew Bryan

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 07:00:00 +0000

For the past 30 years, Matthew Bryan has played an integral role in the growth and innovation that has taken place at WIPO. Since he joined the organization as a young IP lawyer, it has grown from around 50 member states to 156!

Matthew is the Director of the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) Legal and User Relations Division, heading up a 30-person strong team who hail from countries from Morocco to Japan.

During this episode, he explains why the PCT process is a lot less complex than you may think, how his team dealt with the influx of applications they experienced during the pandemic, their approach to user relations outreach and information services, and his four wishes for the future of PCT. Matthew also provides some very valuable advice on how to maximize your benefit and minimize your chances of making mistakes during the PCT application process!

In This Episode:

[01:07] Introducing today’s guest, the Director of the PCT Legal and User Relations Division at WIPO, Matthew Bryan.

[02:34] What Matthew loved about his first few years at WIPO.

[03:43] Matthew shares an overview of the work being done by his division and the people who make up his team.

[05:41] How the WIPO recruitment process works.

[06:47] Examples of how the PCT process has evolved over the years and the implications of these changes for PCT applicants.

[11:41] The number of PCT applications filed in 2021 despite the pandemic, and how Matthew and his team handled them.

[16:13] Some of the legal tasks associated with the PCT that Matthew and his team are responsible for.

[21:08] Matthew explains how you can access the strategic advice that is available to PCT users.

[23:35] An overview of the user relations outreach and information services offered by PCT.

[27:20] How WIPO has grown since Matthew first joined the organization.

[30:24] PCT’s efforts to bring the 37 remaining UN member states into the organization.

[34:58] What Matthew believes to be the biggest misconception that the public has around the PCT process.

[36:21] Reasons for the reduction in mistakes made by PCT applicants over the years, and some of the common mistakes that are still made.

[39:21] Matthew’s advice for maximizing your benefit during the PCT process.

[42:38] Four wishes that Matthew has for the future of PCT.

Resources:

World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)

Matthew Bryan on LinkedIn

PCT Information Service Email Address

WPI - Better World Project Winner with Todd Keiller

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Out of 65 applicants across seven countries, the winner of the 2022 Better World Project was a lithium-ion battery recycling process that was invented by Yan Wang and commercialized by Todd Keiller and his Technology Commercialization team at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI).

When the invention came across his desk, Todd’s first thought was, “Boy, this looks dangerous,” but when he began to understand its potential, he became fully invested in its world-changing capabilities.

Tune in today to hear about the long road to getting the company to the point it is at today, and what its future trajectory is set to look like!

In This Episode:

[01:05] Introducing today’s guest, the Director of Technology Commercialization at WPI, Todd Keiller.

[02:37] Yan Wang; the inventor of the lithium-ion battery recycling process that won the 2022 Better World Project award.

[03:02] When the first patent for the invention was filed.

[04:11] Todd's first thoughts when he heard about the invention.

[05:58] The process Todd and his team went through to commercialize the invention.

[07:51] How WPI’s investment in the lithium-ion battery recycling company has grown.

[08:11] Challenges that Todd and his team dealt with during the commercialization process.

[10:01] The approach that has stood Todd’s small office in good stead over the years.

[11:11] Why Todd strongly believes in the world-changing potential of the invention.

[12:09] A shocking discovery about the power of recycled lithium-ion batteries.

[13:02] The huge honor of winning the Better World Project award.

[13:36] Positive and negative outcomes that have come from winning the award.

Resources:

Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Better World Project

Todd Keiller on LinkedIn

Indigenous Peoples' Day and NAIPEC

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 07:00:00 +0000

In honor of Indigenous Peoples' Day, I'm speaking with David Petite, a proud Native American and a member of the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa tribe. He is also a founder of the Native American Intellectual Property Enterprise Council, a non-profit organization helping Native American inventors and communities. He's also a technology pioneer. He was a co-founder of StatSignal Systems, Inc., the first business to patent and launch wireless mesh technology in the late 1990s. He is also a founding partner in DIPCO, which has further developed Wireless Mesh technology. His work in wireless networking technology laid the groundwork for IoT technology and wireless mesh.

He has received over 50 patents and has more than 100 U.S. patents pending, dating back to 1995. David is passionate about his heritage. His father was the chief of the Red Cliff Tribe and taught him native traditions and values. He has always been an inventor and creator and has been passionate about technology solutions to help people. He has now combined his love of inventing and technology to create an organization to help other tribal inventors and creators. His organization helps from ideation to patents and monetization. Lisa dives into how David got started, what he's working on today and his biggest hopes and dreams for the future of his organization and tribal advancement.

In This Episode:

[02:36] David's father was the chief of the Red Cliff Tribe. His father taught him traditional values, storytelling, music and song.

[04:03] David talks about spiritual transitioning and how everything ties in with the Creator and traditional ways.

[05:35] Becoming an engineer was an easy process for David who was always a problem solver.

[07:04] David has over 50 patents and many still pending. He shares the story of what inspired him to create an ATM security device as his first patent.

[10:02] His first patent wasn't implemented, but it led to his creation of wireless mesh technology. He discovered that the new internet could be used to distribute data. He created a virtual connection using hot terminals and extended it using wireless technology.

[11:21] His technology is integrated into almost all IoT devices.

[12:37] We learn about David's first product he sold back in the 1990's. He had to write the spec for this for underwriting. He started filing patents on everything he developed.

[14:48] Almost everything now is based on mesh technology.

[15:22] The most valuable thing an inventor has is a list of what doesn't work.

[15:54] He started the Native American Intellectual Property Enterprise Council in 2009. He wanted there to be resources for Native American inventors. It evolved into a council to help the tribes.

[19:38] He wants to educate tribal people to understand the value of a brand and to create new economic resources.

[20:52] They work with people who live on reservations or represent a tribe. They go from idea, to product, to monetization.

[22:06] TIP is a Tribal Intellectual Property resource. They set up hubs to work with tribes and bring access to the internet and take ideas to the next level.

[28:21] They helped a remote tribe develop new technology for a lightweight bulletproof vest.

[32:28] Native American culture had a huge impact on food and farming.

[34:00] David reflects back on his work and how he aspired to having his own business and has always been an inventor and creator.

[35:58] Tribes are still Sovereign or a country within a country. There are benefits to Sovereignty when it comes to tech. Healthcare is a valuable area that tribes can tap into.

[38:55] David would like his organization to be more expansive and have more resources. He'd also like tribes to have their own patent offices.

Resources:

Native American Intellectual Property Enterprise Council

David Petite LinkedIn

IntusiQ

SIPCO

iEdison - Bethany Loftin at NIST

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Welcome to the first episode of AUTM on the Air. This episode is brought to you by Wellspring, a leading provider of Innovation Ops software. I’m excited to be talking to Bethany Loftin, an Interagency Policy & iEdison Specialist at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

We’ll be talking about the recent redesign of iEdison, the online platform used to report taxpayer-funded innovations. Organizations use iEdison to request extensions and waivers, report progress, and notify the federal government of its limited use rights to patents on taxpayer-funded ideas, in addition to reporting their inventions.

In This Episode:

[02:59] The new version of iEdison launched on August 9th of 2022. A lot of time was put into this launch including several years of feedback and testing.

[04:13] It just made sense to transfer iEdison from NIH to NIST.

[05:43] Bethany breaks down many of the changes to iEdison including the login procedure and the user interface.

[07:35] Security measures are extremely important. That's one of the reasons they shifted to login.gov. They also have strict user role enforcement, security requirements, and all attachments are virus scanned.

[09:02] Probably the number one mistake that users make is not being aware of the Bayh-Dole requirements. Linking patents and reports can be another issue.

[10:47] When users need help they can reach out to the help desk from the iEdison home page.

[12:27] The agencies just want to ensure that they are getting accurate timely information about what's happening with federal research funding.

[15:01] The iEdison home page has many resources from tutorials to user guides. They even have a video tutorial section and will be having training sessions throughout the year.

[16:45] The new iEdison is still a work in progress, even though it has had a lot of improvements. The system will be continually upgraded and improved.

[17:36] People should really read the regulations and know what their obligations are. The reporting is a lot easier when you know what you're supposed to be doing. Get the entire team involved.

Resources:

iEdison

NIST

Bethany Loftin LinkedIn

Bethany Loftin

Bayh-Dole Act

Curiosity and Innovation with Theo Edmonds

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 09:34:35 +0000

Today we have the pleasure of hearing from Theo Edmonds, JD, MHA, MFA. Theo is a co-founder of CU Denver’s Imaginator Academy, a cultural analytics strategy and futurist innovation hub. Theo is a skilled, energetic, culture futurist, and innovator with 25 years of senior level strategic national and international leadership experience, spent in the private, public, and non-profit sectors. As directing co-founder of CU Denver’s Imaginator Academy, Theo is a weaver of ideas who scouts global networks of entrepreneurs, companies, scientists, artists, creative innovators, and change makers.

In our discussion today, Theo describes the Imaginator Academy and the drive to keep innovation, curiosity, and the artistic mindset alive. At times, this isn’t easy, especially within an organization and even more so during the Great Resignation. But Theo has a great outlook on things and by using the data the Imaginator Academy finds, we are seeing constant opportunities for innovation all around us.

In This Episode:

[01:41] Welcome to the show, Theo! Theo shares his background.

[03:05] Theo learned how to do different things to navigate a world he didn’t fit in.

[04:49] The things that promote wellbeing are autonomy, competence, and relatedness.

[06:39] The feeling of belonging and community is something highly valued by Theo.

[07:27] Where did the idea of the Imaginator Academy come from?

[09:04] Theo had his eye on Denver because of what he wanted to be a part of.

[11:12] A futurist is someone who pays attention and understands that there is a timeline that connects past, present, and future in compelling ways.

[13:20] The way things have been established in the United States is for people to work in silos.

[15:18] When you have a lot of innovative opportunities, who is the gatekeeper?

[17:31] People in different societal groups, such as the LGBTQ+ community, have had to navigate dominant cultures that are not their own.

[20:17] When leaders have biases, they have profound implications on resource allocation.

[21:57] We have set ourselves up with systems we’ve created with unrealistic expectations.

[24:09] We don’t need more research on why this is a problem, but rather lean into the existing data to solve the problem.

[26:22] The purpose of the arts has been misunderstood.

[28:27] Theo explains the inspiration for starting a non-profit.

[30:30] There are more artist residencies in organizations now, but it’s not genuine and more for PR.

[32:56] There are some things involved that make private sector companies uncomfortable.

[33:52] If you are an innovator, the celebration of failure is valuable.

[35:16] Innovation in organizations takes messiness.

[37:01] People are exhausted right now and it is impacting our innovation process.

[39:02] Theo explains what the Imaginator Academy is doing regarding the Great Resignation.

[40:45] What the Imaginator Academy does is not provide more surveys.

[42:48] They put a data bridge in place between culture change and innovation.

[45:23] In Denver, they are hosting their first Innovator Summit.

[46:44] There are two components in researching curiosity.

[48:53] Nature self manages creative tension beautifully, but in our human systems we focus on measuring strengths.

[51:08] Theo describes the different types of people on the bell curve.

[54:03] What does the research say about leaders and the people who derisk?

[56:37] Data makes the stories believable and investable. Stories change the world.

[58:16] Theo shares the hopes he has for the Imaginator Academy.

[60:52] Companies will always have a human component.

[62:25] There are opportunities for innovation all around us.

[64:57] The Great Resignation is a result of Americans doing what we’ve always done. We’re seeing Americans showing new signs of life and imagination.

Find Theo:

Advancing Innovation in Luxembourg with Christophe Haunold

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Today’s guest hails from a small country in the heart of Europe which most people know little about. Luxembourg’s economy was once based on agriculture and coal mining, but central to its success today is its thriving innovation ecosystem that is geared towards the creation and transfer of knowledge.

Christophe Haunold is the Head of Partnership, Knowledge, and Technology Transfer at the University of Luxembourg, and the recently appointed President of ASTP. He believes that knowledge transfer is the key to mitigating many of the issues that plague our world.

Christophe joins us for a discussion about the work that he is doing to advance innovation, some of the most important lessons he has learned during his career, and a few of the biggest professional challenges that he is currently facing.

In This Episode:

[00:52] Introducing today’s guest, Head of Partnership, Knowledge, and Technology Transfer at the University of Luxembourg, Christophe Haunold.

[01:37] Christophe shares an overview of what his career has looked like to date.

[03:29] A brief history of Luxembourg.

[05:02] Pros and cons of the knowledge transfer ecosystem in Luxembourg.

[08:59] The key actions that Christophe and his team focus on.

[11:52] Factors that Christophe sees as essential to the successful management of innovation.

[13:33] The University of Luxembourg’s approach to supporting startups and spinouts.

[16:48] Funding opportunities available for startups and spinouts that come out of the University of Luxembourg.

[18:22] Examples of corporate partnerships that the University of Luxembourg has entered into.

[21:22] Valuable lessons that Christophe has learned through failure.

[23:03] One of Christophe’s favorite success stories.

[25:13] The biggest challenges that Christophe’s office is currently facing.

[27:12] The goals of ASTP and what Christophe hopes to achieve as its new president.

[30:38] Christophe’s three big wishes for the knowledge transfer field.

Find Christophe:

Innovation and IP In Times of Crisis: Stories from The COVID-19 Pandemic with Jennifer Brant

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 07:00:00 +0000

The collaborations that were formed during the COVID-19 pandemic epitomize the value of technology transfer and intellectual property. In today’s episode, Jennifer Brant, the Executive Director of the Innovation Council and the co-author of Unprecedented: The Rapid Innovation Response to COVID-19 and the Role of Intellectual Property, joins us to explain why!

After providing an overview of the diverse range of work being done by the Innovation Council (from tackling the IP gender gap to looking at how to expand biomanufacturing networks globally), Jennifer delves into the key findings from the Unprecedented report.

If you’re interested in learning how companies overcame the enormous challenges of bringing COVID-19 vaccines to the world and how this relates to IP protections (which could be undermined by the TRIPS waiver), this episode is for you!

In This Episode:

[00:52] Introducing Jennifer Brant, Executive Director of the Innovation Council.

[02:02] Jennifer explains the diverse range of work that the Innovation Council is responsible for.

[03:55] How the Innovation Council’s Inclusive Innovation Ecosystem is helping to close the IP gender gap.

[08:12] An overview of the report that Jennifer co-authored about the essential role of IP during the COVID-19 pandemic.

[13:54] Why the COVID-19 vaccines can be described as an “overnight success years in the making.”

[14:37] Factors that made the pandemic an unprecedented challenge.

[15:57] Collaboration in times of crisis; stories from the COVID-19 pandemic.

[21:55] An example that highlights the complexity of value chains relating to COVID-19 vaccines.

[22:51] How regulatory authorities adapted to the demands of the pandemic response.

[25:07] Debunking a misconception about the COVID-19 manufacturing process.

[27:06] Jennifer’s thoughts on the TRIPS waiver.

[29:37] How companies are likely to respond to the removal of IP projections.

[32:04] The patent infringement lawsuit that had been filed against Pfizer-BioNTech.

[33:52] How countries can enhance their biomanufacturing capacity.

[37:42] Impacts of the Russia/Ukraine war on biologics manufacturing in the region.

Find Jennifer:

Closing the Gender Gap with WIPO members Julio Raffo and Elodie Carpentier

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 07:00:00 +0000

This episode is brought to you from the headquarters of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in Geneva, Switzerland.

Julio Raffo and Elodie Carpentier, Head of the Innovation Economy Section of the Department for Economics and Data Analytics at WIPO, and postdoc research fellow at WIPO respectively, are my guests on the show today.

Join us for a discussion around WIPO’s diverse range of projects, what their research has shown about the impacts of war, COVID, and climate change on the evolution of innovation, and what WIPO is doing to hasten the pace of the slowly closing gender gap in the innovation space!

In This Episode:

[00:50] Introducing WIPO and today’s guests, Julio and Elodie.

[02:17] The diverse range of projects that Julio is involved in as head of the Innovation Economy Section of the Department for Economics and Data Analytics at WIPO.

[03:28] What Elodie’s role as a postdoc research fellow at WIPO entails.

[06:13] Some key findings that are highlighted in the 2022 edition of the World Intellectual Property Report.

[09:55] Two possible explanations for the decrease in green patenting worldwide.

[11:25] The gender gap in the innovation space and why it is problematic.

[12:51] Action that WIPO is taking to help close the gender gap.

[14:35] WIPO’s approach to collecting information around gender disparities.

[17:15] An overview of the WIPO initiatives that promote gender equality and diversity in the innovation space.

[19:01] How WIPO measures changes in the gender gap.

[20:28] Topics of discussion that will be covered at the symposium that Julio has been invited to attend.

Find Julio:

Find Elodie:

Dynamite in Small Packages with Einar Mantyla and Susan Christianen

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 07:00:00 +0000

TTO Iceland is proof that when it comes to the ability to make an impact, size doesn’t matter!

Prior to the founding of TTO Iceland at the end of 2018, technology transfer was non-existent in Iceland. But thanks to today’s guests, Einar Mantyla and Susan Christianen, the country’s scientists and entrepreneurs now have a much greater chance of impacting society both nationally and internationally.

Einar and Susan make up half of the small powerhouse team at TTO Iceland, and during this episode, we discuss the challenges and successes that have characterized the last (almost) four years of TTO Iceland and what their future holds!

In This Episode:

[00:51] Introducing today’s guest, Einar and Susan.

[03:00] Einar and Susan’s role in bringing technology transfer to Iceland.

[10:24] An overview of what the (almost) four years since the founding of TTO Iceland have looked like.

[14:48] TTO Iceland’s involvement in the country’s innovation ecosystem.

[17:14] How the Icelandic government has supported TTO Iceland, and how they can do more in the future.

[20:52] People who make up the small team at TTO Iceland.

[23:20] The fellows program that TTO Iceland is a part of.

[25:27] Some of TTO Iceland’s measurable achievements.

[27:32] How TTO Iceland enhances awareness about technology transfer and entrepreneurship.

[31:11] Examples of the ways in which TTO Iceland supports startups coming out of universities in the country.

[34:01] The various funding opportunities that are available to startups in Iceland.

[37:02] TTO Iceland’s corporate partners and the benefits that these partnerships have brought about.

[41:48] Some of the TTO Iceland successes that Einar and Susan are proud of.

[44:13] The biggest challenges being faced by TTO Iceland.

[47:38] TTO Iceland’s approach to enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

[50:14] Value that Susan and Einar see in being part of technology transfer organizations.

[51:38] Einar and Susan’s view on credentialing.

[52:59] Susan and Einar’s hopes for the future of technology transfer in Iceland.

Find Einar:

Find Susan:

Transforming US Science Policy with Ian McClure

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 07:00:00 +0000

August 9th, 2022 was a monumental day for technology transfer! On this day, President Biden signed the CHIPS and Science bill into law, allocating $3.1 billion to help research organizations strengthen their capacity for technology transfer. This is the first time that the US Federal Government has authorized funding of technology transfer staff, patent and licensing expenses, and the like.

In today’s episode, I am joined by the chairman of the AUTM board and Associate Vice President for Research, Innovation, and Economic Impact for UK Innovate at the University of Kentucky, Ian McClure.

Ian is here to share some details about the most transformational piece of legislation relating to technology transfer since the Bayh-Dole Act, including how it aims to enhance diversity and inclusivity in science, improve access to STEM education, combat sexual harassment in the scientific workforce, and more!

In This Episode:

[00:50] The CHIPS and Science Act: the bill that President Biden signed into law on August 9th, 2022.

[01:31] Ian’s role at the University of Kentucky.

[02:11] An overview of how the CHIPS and Science Act is going to transform the technology transfer sector.

[05:55] When AUTM board members realized there was an opportunity to change the technology transfer landscape in the US through the CHIPS and Science Act.

[08:59] How the legislation cements the importance of the National Science Foundation (NSF).

[10:10] $3.1 billion; the amount of money that has been authorized over a 5-year period to support technology transfer.

[11:08] The three factors that determine the eligibility of institutions for this funding.

[13:11] How section 10.3.91 of the CHIPS and Science Act establishes access to technology transfer and entrepreneurship programs.

[15:47] Emphasis that the Act places on STEM education in Title 3.

[19:05] Ian explains how Title 5 of the Act aims to enhance diversity and inclusivity in science.

[21:32] Some of the key aspects of the subtitle in the Act that is dedicated to combating sexual harassment in the scientific workforce.

[24:04] Exploring Title 6, Subtitle C: the creation of regional innovation hubs in areas that are not leading technology areas.

[29:02] Examples of how the Act aims to energize technology transfer.

[32:04] How you can play your part in ensuring that authorizations turn into appropriations.

Find Ian:

The Road to Innovation in “Food Valley” with Sebastiaan Berendse and Suraj Jamge

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Wageningen University and Research (WUR) is one of the key players in what has become known as the Silicon Valley of Food and Agriculture, or “Food Valley.” For seven years in a row, WUR has ranked number one for agricultural sciences, and it currently also holds the top spot in environmental science and food technology.

Furthermore, it is the only institution in the world that combines fundamental research and education with applied research in the agricultural, food processing, and environmental sectors!

Today’s guests are Sebastiaan and Suraj, the Director of Value Creation at WUR and a Knowledge Transfer Officer at WUR respectively. During this fascinating conversation, they explain (among other things) the origin story of WUR, the wide-ranging focal areas of their department, and some of the ways in which they create meaningful impact outside the walls of the institution.

In This Episode:

[00:52] An overview of the roles held by today’s guests, Sebastiaan and Suraj, at Wageningen University and Research (WUR), and their diverse backgrounds.

[04:25] Sebastiaan’s journey to the field of technology transfer.

[06:44] What led Suraj to the technology transfer field.

[10:58] Areas in which WUR holds the number one spot in world rankings.

[12:22] How the location for Wageningen University was decided upon 105 years ago, and the reason for the founding of the research arm.

[14:22] What makes WUR unique.

[14:46] The number of staff and students that make up WUR.

[16:42] Focal areas of the Department of Value Creation at WUR.

[26:03] Some of WUR’s yearly output metrics.

[31:12] How the Department of Value Creation supports startups that originate at WUR.

[37:34] Examples of the funding streams that are available to students and researchers at WUR.

[42:35] Exploring some of WUR’s strategic partnerships and alliances.

[46:58] Impact that the Food Waste Free United initiative has had in the Netherlands to date.

[48:51] WUR’s program for enhancing the scalability of startups.

[51:35] One of WUR’s successful spinoffs.

[54:50] Reasons behind WUR’s unusual decision to provide free licenses to potential partners of their patented CRISPR technology portfolio.

[1:02:57] A challenge that WUR’s Department of Value Creation is currently facing, and how they plan to deal with it.

[1:05:01] WUR’s approach to enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

[1:11:16] Sebastiaan and Suraj share their wishes for the future.

Find Sebastiaan and Suraj:

Ideas to Impact with Will Charles and Nicola Johnstone

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Will Charles and Nicola Johnstone, Executive Director and Head of IP at UniServices respectively, join us on the podcast this week to discuss how New Zealand’s largest university is making waves in the technology transfer space (for the last 2 years it was ranked number one in Time’s Higher Education University Impact Ratings!).

UniServices is the University of Auckland’s technology transfer office, but as you will hear today, it is so much more than just that! Their vision is ‘Idea to Impact’ and they have three approaches that they use to achieve this. They are also committed to unlocking the innovation potential of Māori knowledge which has been ignored for so long.

Tune in for a colorful conversation about some of their greatest achievements and greatest challenges, how they measure their success, their thoughts on corporate partnerships and technology transfer organizations, as well as their hopes for the future!

In This Episode:

[00:52] Introducing today’s guests, Will and Nicola, from UniServices at the University of Auckland.

[03:04] Will shares what his journey in the technology transfer space has looked like to date.

[04:42] Nicola’s background and what drew her to technology transfer.

[07:12] New Zealand’s foundational document, and examples of the many lessons to be learned from the Māori worldview.

[10:33] What Will sees as the key to UniServices’ success.

[12:15] UniServices’ vision, and the three ways they turn this vision into reality.

[13:44] How UniServices differs from a traditional technology transfer office.

[14:58] The structure of Nicola’s IP team at UniServices.

[16:28] How Will’s Commercialization team at UniServices is structured.

[17:50] Impact that UniServices has created over the past few years.

[20:08] How UniServices supports start-ups that come out of the University of Auckland.

[27:43] UniServices’ approach to social innovation.

[29:52] How UniServices addressed the issue of lack of diversity within their committees.

[34:08] The fundamental role of UniServices’ corporate partnerships.

[37:48] The University of Auckland’s sophisticated philanthropic arm.

[39:02] Some of UniServices’ most memorable success stories.

[45:26] Nicola and Will share the biggest challenge that they are currently facing.

[47:31] Programs within the University of Auckland that aim to enhance women and minorities’ involvement in research and entrepreneurship.

[51:15] Value that Will and Nicola see in technology transfer organizations.

[54:28] Nicola’s wishes for the future.

[55:34] Will’s wishes for the future.

UniServices:

Find Will:

Find Nicola:

Designing Inclusive Social Innovation with Jordana Armstrong

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Think and Do with Ross DeVol

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Heartland Forward isn’t just a think tank, it’s a think and do tank! After spending 20 years as Chief Research Officer at the Milken Institute, today’s guest, Ross DeVol, is Heartland Forward’s president and CEO.

During this episode, Ross explains the mission of Heartland forward, its four focal areas, and some of the key players who are involved. Ross also shares an overview of the most recent research they have conducted around technology transfer achievements in universities across the United States, and his thoughts on how he believes these metrics can be improved!

In This Episode:

[00:53] Introducing today’s guest, Ross DeVol.

[02:08] Ross shares the non-traditional journey that led him to his current role as the President and CEO of Heartland Forward.

[04:40] The mission of Heartland Forward (a “think and do” tank).

[05:21] Four areas where Heartland Forward focuses its efforts.

[05:44] Some of the key members of Heartland Forward.

[08:27] An overview of Heartland Forward’s most recent research report, ‘Research to Renewal: Advancing University Technology Transfer.’

[11:19] Universities that ranked highly in the research report.

[15:58] Ross’s thoughts on how universities can improve their technology transfer metrics.

[16:41] How governments can take the Bayh-Dole Act further.

[19:11] What universities can do to boost economic development in their regions.

[20:56] Goals for the future of Heartland Forward.

Find Ross:

Heartland Forward

Navigating Neurodiversity in the Legal Profession with Haley Moss

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Haley Moss is Florida’s first documented openly autistic attorney. She is also an author, artist, and advocate for embracing neurodiversity in the legal profession. When Haley was diagnosed with autism in the late 1990s, there was very little awareness about the disability. Although there is a lot more understanding and support today, we still have a long way to go.

During today’s episode, Haley shares examples of the disabilities that are encompassed by the neurodiverse umbrella, and the broad range of traits that people with autism can display. She then explains how stigma, ableism, and misconceptions about what it means to be neurodiverse exclude neurodiverse people from the workplace, and what employers can do to change this (and why they should be interested in doing so).

This episode serves as an important lesson that being neurodiverse doesn’t mean you have to be superhuman to add value. You are not a failed version of normal; you are worthy as you are.

In This Episode:

[00:52] Introducing Haley Moss, Florida’s first documented openly autistic attorney.

[03:05] The lack of autism awareness and resources that were available when Haley was diagnosed.

[04:27] Why Haley’s original career goal was to become a psychiatrist.

[05:54] Haley shares what motivated her to become a lawyer.

[06:56] Isolation that Haley felt as an autistic person at law school.

[08:54] Why Haley chose not to become a disability rights attorney.

[10:07] The life-changing moment when the story of Haley’s admission to the Florida bar went viral.

[11:10] Examples of the wide variety of traits displayed by autistic people.

[13:27] Exploring the concept of neurodiversity.

[15:57] High unemployment levels of people who are neurodiverse, and some of the reasons for this.

[17:17] The salary disparity between neurodiverse and neurotypical people.

[19:07] How the law profession has traditionally addressed neurodiversity.

[21:39] You don’t have to be superhuman to be valued.

[22:52] The benefits of hiring people who are neurodiverse.

[25:11] Barriers to inclusivity of neurodiverse people in the workplace.

[28:08] Haley’s response to the discrimination that she has experienced because of her disability.

[30:24] Examples of disability accommodations (and why these shouldn’t be a deterrent to an employer).

[32:55] How employers can be more inclusive of neurodiversity.

[35:13] What Haley loves about working remotely.

[36:56] The importance of putting neurodiverse people in leadership positions.

[37:17] The lack of mentorship that Haley received as a new attorney.

[38:40] Why communication is key to being inclusive.

[40:27] Haley’s three wishes for the neurodiverse population.

Find Haley:

The World’s Best Job with Jim Banting

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 07:00:00 +0000

As the Assistant Vice Principal of Partnerships and Innovation, Jim Banting plays an invaluable role in contributing to supporting research, innovation, and entrepreneurship in the ecosystem within and around Queens University in Kingston, Ontario. It’s not hard to see why he is certain he has the best job in the world!

During this episode, Jim explains how his office works to advance research, partnerships, and knowledge mobilization to strengthen Queens University’s local, national and global impact. This doesn’t come without its challenges, and Jim shares how he hopes to see the technology transfer field evolve in the future.

We also discuss how Queens prioritizes the Sustainable Development Goals, some of the biggest success stories to emerge from the university (including technicolor technology and a topical therapy for a pre-cancerous condition), and their approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

In This Episode:

[00:52] Introducing today’s guest, Assistant Vice Principal of Partnerships and Innovation at Queens University, Jim Banting.

[02:07] Jim shares an overview of the full-circle story of his career.

[05:36] Why Jim thinks he has the best job in the world.

[06:45] The mission of the office of Partnerships and Innovation at Queen’s University, and its four functions.

[07:53] Jim shares some details about the Market Focus Research Workshop series he offered last fall.

[10:52] How Jim’s office is structured, and the people who are part of his team.

[11:41] Technology transfer metrics that Jim’s office aims for each year.

[13:10] The two support channels that Jim’s office offers to startups.

[15:37] Funding opportunities that are available for startups (and more established small businesses) in Canada.

[17:09] How Queens University has prioritized the Sustainable Development Goals.

[19:00] Corporate partners that Queens University receives support from.

[21:23] Some of the biggest success stories to come out of Queens University.

[23:00] Why an ex-Queens University professor has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

[24:25] Work being done by the Foundry Program at Queens University.

[27:30] The biggest challenges that Jim’s office is currently facing.

[29:02] Jim’s office’s approach to enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion.

[32:31] Organizations that Jim’s office is involved with.

[34:11] Jim’s wishes for the future!

Find Jim:

Creating Impact Since 1989 with James Wilson

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Today’s guest has been an employee of the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) since 1989. Today, James Wilson is the Assistant Regional Director of their Elijah J. McCoy Midwest Regional Office (the first one to be established outside of the DC area) which offers a variety of resources to 9 states across the region.

From trademark basics boot camps to courses on how to protect your technology abroad, the Midwest Regional Office offers virtual training courses for various virtual training courses for every stage of the patent and trademark journey.

You will walk away from this conversation with a renewed appreciation for the impactful work being done by the USPTO!

In This Episode:

[02:48] James shares an overview of the exciting journey that has been his career.

[07:44] How James became an employee of the USPTO in 1989.

[10:56] Positive impacts that the USPTO Midwest Regional Office has had (and continues to have) on small business owners and inventors in the area.

[13:44] A list of the 9 states covered by the USPTO Midwest Regional Office, and the various services that they offer to these states.

[16:32] How to stay up to date with the programs being offered by the USPTO Midwest Regional Office.

[17:18] What the USPTO Patent and Trademark Resource Centers are, and the benefits that they confer.

[19:10] Hire an attorney; why this is the first step that James recommends taking to secure your intellectual property.

[21:17] Goals of the USPTO’s Patent Pro-Bono Program and Law School Clinic Certification Program.

[23:05] Other ways in which attorneys can become involved with the USPTO.

[24:04] Upcoming training programs being offered by the USPTO Midwest Regional Office.

[25:39] James’s first wish for the future of the USPTO.

[26:05] The moment that James realized the significance of his work.

[27:07] James’s second and third wishes for the future of the USPTO.

Find James:

USPTO (Events)

Women Deserve Better with Lynn Schmidt

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Sexism has existed since people have existed, and despite what you may have heard, the data shows that it’s only getting worse. Thankfully, there are people working hard to change this. One of them is today’s guest, Dr. Lynn Schmidt.

Lynn is a global management consultant, executive coach, best selling author, and keynote speaker who is a passionate advocate for women’s rights. She joins us to discuss her new book, Antisexist, which offers a roadmap for learning about, acknowledging, and managing the biases which serve to uphold sexism.

During our conversation, we cover examples of microaggressions, discrimination harassment, and violence against women, and how all of us can begin to “challenge sexism, champion women’s rights, and create equality.”

“Anger, channeled appropriately, will make things change for women.” So, listen to this episode, and channel your anger to drive change!

In This Episode:

[00:53] Introducing Dr. Lynn Schmidt; global management consultant, executive coach, best selling author, and keynote speaker.

[03:29] Women and career development: the focus of Lynn’s dissertation (and how it influenced the work she is now doing).

[05:07] The motivation behind Lynn’s latest book, Antisexist.

[08:36] An overview of the three sections of the book.

[10:51] Examples of microaggressions, and why they are dangerous.

[14:01] Why some women continue to support the patriarchy, even though it is a sexist system.

[19:40] 135: the number of years it is expected to take for women to achieve parity with men in terms of economic opportunities, political power, education and health.

[21:11] Some battles that were recently won for gender equality, and why Lynn celebrates these with caution.

[24:16] Real world examples (including a personal experience of Lynn’s) that highlight the issue of discrimination in the healthcare system.

[26:27] How the education system is failing women, and subsequently failing society as a whole.

[30:56] The positive impacts that Title 9 has had over the past 50 years in terms of sexual discrmination, and the long road that still lies ahead.

[32:49] Lynn shares the definition of harassment, and examples of what it can look like.

[40:05] The numerous different types of violence against women.

[41:43] How femicide differs from homicide, and horrific statistics of the former.

[45:01] A reason that racism gets more attention than sexism.

[46:04] Exploring sexism through an intersectional lens.

[49:09] Why women should be angry.

[51:30] The prolific nature of sexism, and what we can all do to contribute to eliminating it.

[54:33] You are not alone.

[56:39] Lynn’s thoughts about the future of sexism.

Find Lynn:

Instagram

Antisexist

Applying Fundamental Physics to Real World Problems with Matt Garrett

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 07:00:00 +0000

If you are under the impression that the Stanford Linear Accelerator Center (SLAC) is only useful for fundamental physics experiments and doesn’t have any capacity for real-world applications, think again!

Today’s guest, Matt Garrett, is the Director of Technology Transfer and Private Partnerships at SLAC (one of 17 Department of Energy National Laboratories). In today’s episode, Matt explains how SLAC’s linear particle accelerator contributes to science and the enormous potential for societal impact that lies in the lessons that have been learned through its development.

We also discuss the programs at SLAC that are focused on developing entrepreneurial capabilities, Matt’s mission to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion in the technology transfer community, the importance of place-based innovation, and more!

In This Episode:

[00:53] Introducing Matt Garrett, the Director of Technology Transfer and Private Partnerships at SLAC National Accelerator Lab.

[02:53] Matt’s first foray in the technology transfer space. and how his career evolved from there.

[06:27] The driving force behind the founding of the 17 Department of Energy National Laboratories.

[08:00] Some of SLAC’s most notable achievements, and the value that SLAC brings to the greater scientific community and the world at large.

[12:55] Matt describes the unique way in which the Department of Energy National Labs operates.

[14:08] What Matt’s role at SLAC entails, and an overview of how SLAC is structured.

[19:42] SLAC’s entrepreneurship-focused initiatives.

[23:11] Work that is being done at the laboratory that SLAC developed in collaboration with Toyota.

[26:11] How SLAC’s linear particle accelerator technology is being redesigned and used in different forms.

[28:19] Awareness that Matt is bringing to the scientific community about the benefits of technology transfer.

[31:21] Examples of how SLAC’s developments can be used to benefit society.

[32:19] Matt’s thoughts on the value of technology transfer organizations, and the organizations that he has been involved with.

[36:01] Value that is being created by the Bay Area Laboratory Innovation Networking Center, which SLAC co-founded.

[38:49] Matt’s three wishes for the future of SLAC.

Find Matt:

Why We Need to Protect Bayh-Dole with Joe Allen

Sun, 12 Jun 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Bayh-Dole helped the U.S. reverse its downward spiral into irrelevance and become the dominant force that it is today. The world economy is unraveling again, and Joe Allen is a firm believer in the power of the Bayh-Dole Act to turn things around for countries across the world. Not everybody agrees.

Despite the fact that the Bayh-Dole Act is foundational to the U.S. economy, it has been under attack since it was passed in 1980. From day one, Joe Allen has been there to fight the battles on its behalf.

Listen to this episode to hear why protecting Bayh-Dole means protecting innovation.

In This Episode:

[00:52] An overview of Joe Allen’s career, from Senate Judiciary Committee for Senator Birch Bayh to leader of the Bayh-Dole Coalition.

[02:12] March-in right requests that have been filed relating to the prostate cancer drug, XTANDI.

[03:15] Why the US patent system is under attack.

[04:10] The profound impact that the Bayh-Dole Act had on the US economy.

[06:09] Joe explains why the Bayh-Dole Act has the provision of a march-in right.

[07:30] Four circumstances under which the government can invoke the march-in provision.

[09:04] Misconceptions held by opponents of the Bayh-Dole Act.

[16:16] The enormity of what is at stake if the march-in relating to XTANDI goes ahead.

[21:20] Attacks that were waged against Bayh-Dole when it was passed.

[23:26] An explanation of the Exceptional Circumstances provision in the Bayh-Dole Act, and how the DOE is trying to take advantage of this.

[30:23] The dangers of micromanagement in the innovation space.

[33:54] How the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine came into existence in such a short space of time.

[39:27] Joe shares his thoughts on COVID-19 vaccine patent waivers.

[43:53] The role that Joe played in assisting South Africa to change its approach to innovation.

[48:04] Joe’s passion for advocating for the Bayh-Dole Act in the US and internationally.

[49:30] A story that epitomizes the driving force behind our economy.

[50:30] Why Joe is optimistic about the future of Bayh-Dole, despite the many reasons not to be.

[53:02] The most effective way to fight back against Bayh-Dole oppressors.

[55:42] A story that highlights the real-world value of the Bayh-Dole Act.

Find Joe:

Creating a Technology Transfer Ecosystem in Croatia with Ivana Vuka

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 07:00:00 +0000

The Croatian government has historically not offered a lot of support to its technology transfer sector. However, slowly but surely, things are beginning to change.

Today’s guest is Ivana Vuka, head of the Technology Transfer Office at the University of Split (the second-largest university in Croatia with over 20,000 students), who is part of the drive to create a thriving technology transfer ecosystem in Croatia.

In today’s episode, Ivana and I discuss how she became involved in technology transfer, the people who make up her small team, and the various innovation-related projects that they are a part of. Ivana also shares her hopes for the future of the technology transfer field in Croatia. I’m excited to follow their progress!

In This Episode:

[00:50] Introducing today’s guest, head of the technology transfer office at the University of Split in Croatia, Ivana Vuka.

[02:51] Ivana explains what led her to technology transfer, and an overview of her journey in the field so far.

[05:18] Some details about the University of Split.

[06:26] Comparing technology transfer in Croatia to technology transfer in the US and UK.

[08:09] The lack of government support for technology transfer in Croatia.

[09:06] A recent change in science law in Croatia that will change the technology transfer environment in the country.

[10:01] How Ivana’s office is structured.

[10:40] The EU funded innovation-related projects that Ivana’s office is part of.

[14:05] Ivana shares her office’s technology transfer metrics.

[15:59] Factors that Ivana sees as essential to the success of technology transfer projects.

[17:04] How Ivana and her team support startup’s that come out of the University of Split, and the funding opportunities that are available to them.

[20:33] Some of the corporate partners that the University of Split has formed relationships with.

[24:05] Ivana shares some of the main successes that her office has been responsible for.

[26:20] Changes that Ivana would like to see take place in her office.

[27:27] The University of Split’s gender-equality plans.

[29:03] Ivana’s thoughts on the value of technology transfer organizations and technology transfer credentialing.

[30:32] Ivana’s wish for Croatia’s technology transfer sector in general and her office in particular.

Find Ivana:

Email: ivana.vuka@unist.hr

Driving Transformation from Australia to Saudi Arabia with Kevin Cullen

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Throughout his career in the technology transfer realm, Kevin Cullen has been driving transformation. From introducing the concept of Easy Access IP at the University of Glasgow and the University of New South Wales, to his current position as Vice President of Innovation and Economic Development at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), where he is helping Saudi Arabia reach its goal of enhancing global prosperity through focusing on research and innovation in the food, water, energy, and environmental sectors.

Although technology transfer in Saudi Arabia is less developed than it is in the western world, this is not necessarily a disadvantage, and in today’s episode Kevin shares what he greatly admires about KAUST’s approach. He also explains what motivates him to do the work he does, the importance of having an open mind, why universities should focus less on IP licensing and more on professional development and consulting, and more!

KAUST has made incredible progress in the 12 years since its founding, and Kevin has even bigger and bolder plans for its future!

In This Episode:

[00:51] Introducing Kevin Cullen, Vice President of Innovation and Economic Development at KAUST.

[03:53] The philosophy that underpins the work that Kevin does in the technology transfer space.

[04:14] Easy access IP; the role that Kevin played in making this idea more widely accepted.

[06:08] How Kevin ended up at KAUST, and what he greatly admires about the university.

[08:20] An overview of the short history of KAUST and its 4 founding research pillars.

[09:59] Why Kevin thinks universities focus too much on IP (and the elements he thinks they should be prioritizing more).

[12:09] Similarities and differences between the technology transfer sector in Saudi Arabia and in the west.

[14:40] Vision 2030; the Crown Prince’s plan for Saudi Arabia, and how Kevin is helping turn this into a reality.

[20:09] Examples of the diverse range of research coming out of KAUST.

[20:45] The difference between industry-directed and industry-informed research.

[21:37] Progress that KAUST has made with its Entrepreneurship Center and its Investment Fund.

[24:28] The unprecedented attendance at the first MOOC to come out of KAUST.

[29:41] Activities, outcomes, and impact; an explanation of these three measurements that Kevin uses to determine success.

[34:00] The importance of keeping an open mind when working in the technology transfer space.

[37:26] KAUST’s approach to supporting startups (coming from within and outside of the university), and why not everyone should aim to be an entrepreneur.

[41:50] Aspirations that Kevin has for the future of technology transfer at KAUST.

[43:37] KAUST’s main corporate partners and the value that Kevin sees in these partnerships.

[46:55] Why a university’s reputation is its greatest asset.

[47:38] Impactful startups that have come out of KAUST.

[52:26] The biggest challenges that Kevin and his team are currently facing.

[56:19] Programs that KAUST runs that are focused on enhancing gender diversity.

[58:59] Kevin’s involvement in technology transfer organizations, and the value that they provide.

[1:01:28] Wishes that Kevin has for his office.

Find Kevin:

Social Change Through Academic Entrepreneurship with Jason Roncancio

Wed, 25 May 2022 07:00:00 +0000

For Jason Roncancio, and many other academic entrepreneurs in emerging economies, the driving force behind the work they do is their desire to bring about social change within their communities and the world at large.

In today’s episode, Jason shares some of the key lessons that he has learned from his experience working in the biotechnology industry and through the many years he has spent as a researcher focusing on innovation and entrepreneurship..

Jason provides an insightful comparison between the academic entrepreneurship in developed and developing countries, an overview of the different channels through which entrepreneurial universities collaborate with industry, and offers his thoughts on how these entrepreneurial universities can mitigate the challenges that they face as agents for social change.

In This Episode:

[00:50] An overview of Jason Roncancio’s educational and professional background.

[05:05] The inspiration behind the writing of Jason’s book, Entrepreneurial Universities as Agents of Social Change.

[13:06] Jason explains what an entrepreneurial university is, and the catalyst for the creation of these kinds of institutions.

[16:04] How Jason defines social entrepreneurship and social innovation.

[17:14] How entrepreneurial universities in developed countries differ from those in developing countries.

[24:18] The driving forces behind the work being done by academic entrepreneurs in emerging economies.

[30:49] Some of the major challenges being faced by entrepreneurial universities.

[34:02] Jason’s call to action for all universities.

[37:23] Some of the key findings from the research that Jason conducted on university/industry collaborations in Colombia and Bolivia.

[45:26] Innovation, community service learning, co-creation: an overview of these three channels which facilitate university/industry collaborations.

[50:06] Barriers that prevent universities from becoming better agents for social change.

[55:48] The benefits that universities are likely to receive when they make an effort to bring about social change.

[58:20] Jason’s thoughts on what universities can do to become more effective social change agents.

[1:10:41] How Jason plans to broach the topics of diversity, equity, and inclusion in his future research.

Find Jason:

Research Gate

[Working Towards] Inclusive IP with Molly Kocialski

Wed, 18 May 2022 07:00:00 +0000

The philosophy that Molly Kocialiski lives by is one based on continuous learning. She is also a firm believer in the concept of “you get what you give,” and the power of saying yes whenever possible. She has had a fascinating personal and professional journey as a result!

After working as an IP litigator and an in-house patent attorney, Molly is now the Regional Director of the Rocky Mountain USPTO. Her job (which she absolutely loves) is to make sure that examiners and judges have a great place to work, and to support the agency’s IP related educational and outreach initiatives.

IP intensive industries account for 41% of domestic economic activity and 62.5 million US jobs. In today’s episode, Molly provides details about the various programs that her office is involved with that are aiming to enhance diversity, equity and inclusion in the IP space!

In This Episode:

[00:50] Introducing today’s guest, Regional Director of the Rocky Mountain USPTO, Molly Kocialski.

[02:12] An overview of Molly’s personal and career background.

[03:58] The philosophies that Molly lives by.

[05:28] Volunteer work that Molly has done, and how she became involved with the USPTO.

[07:37] Growth that Molly’s office has experienced since 2014.

[08:50] What Molly loves about the Rocky Mountain region, and what her role as Regional Director entails.

[11:13] Educational and outreach initiatives that Molly’s office is involved with.

[12:44] A statistic which highlights the value of IP intensive industries to the US economy.

[14:44] The mission of the Council of Inclusive Innovation.

[18:54] Research that Molly conducted relating to how corporations can increase diversity at the invention harvesting stage.

[21:30] The main goals of the new Joint Project Agreement that the USPTO is a part of.

[24:49] Work being done by the USPTO’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee.

[28:51] How the USPTO is planning to implement Action 5 of the Department of Congress’ Equity Action Plan.

[33:28] The importance of having role models who look like you, and how Molly is working towards enhancing the number of women doing patent work.

[43:56] Why Molly wishes more states would act like Wyoming!

Find Molly:

The TTIP Journey with Lisa Mueller and Tom Hockaday

Wed, 11 May 2022 07:00:00 +0000

We’ve reached the 100 episode mark; thank you for being a part of the TTIP journey so far!

Over the past 99 episodes I have had the pleasure of interviewing people in 69 offices within, and 16 offices outside of, the United States, all of whom are doing incredible things in the technology transfer space! In today’s episode I share some memorable insights from these inspiring conversations. A particular passion of mine (as you will know if you are a regular listener) is enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion, and I’m so proud of the work being done in our profession to create a world where these ideals are upheld.

Listening in today, you will also hear about what motivated me to start this podcast, the plans that I have for its future, and of course, my three wishes!

In This Episode:

[01:21] Celebrating 100 episodes!

[02:22] A brief overview of the very first TTIP episode.

[03:14] Motivation behind the founding of the TTIP podcast.

[04:58] Why I decided to start interviewing technology transfer professionals outside of the United States (as well as within).

[07:20] The meeting that I will be attending in Portugal in the coming weeks.

[08:28] One of the biggest learnings I have had through the interviews I have done for the podcast.

[10:28] Some of the challenges that have arisen during podcast interviews.

[13:32] The major influence that Joe Allen has had on the technology transfer field.

[15:23] Why my interview with Fred Reinhart was so memorable.

[16:24] Factors that make Kathy Ku a legend in the technology transfer space.

[18:04] Impressive work being done by Teri Willey.

[19:41] What you can expect to learn in the episode with Jon Soderstrom.

[21:33] Two programs which focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, and why I am so passionate about this topic.

[23:32] An inspirational clip from my interview with Megan Aanstoos.

[26:00] Tom shares the goals of GEDITT, an organization which he co-founded.

[27:46] Work being done by Harrity & Harrity to advance equity, diversity, and inclusion (more detail can be found in my interview with Elaine Spector).

[28:35] Why I recommend listening to Natalie Cozier’s story.

[29:35] Valuable lessons which can be learned from my interview with Jane Muir, Jennifer Shockro, and Jennifer Gottwald.

[30:31] The importance of opening up discussions about mental health issues, as Mike Kasdan did in episode 99.

[32:22] Why I found the interviews with Serenity Wright and George Chellapa and Meagan Pitcher particularly inspiring.

[34:47] Plans that I have for the future of the TTIP podcast.

[38:29] My three wishes.

[41:14] Appreciation for the people who have supported me during my journey of creating this podcast over the last few years.

Tech Transfer IP Forum:

Creating Sustainable, Socially-Just Work Spaces with Michael Kasdan

Wed, 04 May 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Mental ill-health and various forms of social injustice are prevalent in our workplaces, and in our society as a whole, and today’s guest is a vocal advocate for their elimination.

Michael Kasdan is an IP attorney and partner at Wiggin and Dana, proud member of The Good Men Project, and founder of Lawyering While Human. In a number of different ways which we discuss today, Michael aims to facilitate difficult conversations in order to change the systemic, harmful ways of thinking and working which serve to uphold the status quo.

During our conversation, Michael shares what his journey of navigating through little-explored spaces has looked like, why vulnerability is a key to good leadership, and the benefits of true diversity, equity, and inclusion (beyond just being nice)!

In This Episode:

[00:51] Introducing today’s guest, IP attorney Michael Kasdan.

[03:18] What Michael’s varied professional life has consisted of to date.

[07:23] How Michael has honed his interests in education, entrepreneurship, and technology over the years.

[10:43] Michael’s involvement in The Good Men Project, and what goals of the organization are.

[16:20] The programs which focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion that Michael has helped develop at Wiggin and Dana.

[23:06] Michael shares examples of how to change systemic issues in STEM.

[27:43] A statistic which highlights the slow progress being made in terms of the gender gap in STEM.

[28:30] The problem with zero sum thinking.

[31:22] Lawyering While Human; Michael shares the inspiration behind the movement.

[36:02] The multitude of benefits of addressing mental health issues.

[43:30] What leaders can do to create a more sustainable workplace culture.

[50:05] Mental ill-health and inequities in the sports world (another of Michael’s passion areas).

[57:35] Michael’s three wishes.

Find Michael:

Lawyering While Human on Instagram

Instagram

Wiggin and Dana Website

Lawyering While Human on Twitter

Cultivating Unique and Diverse Ecosystems with Ruben Flores-Saaib

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 07:00:00 +0000

While he was working as a technology scout, Ruben Flores-Saaib had no intention of entering the technology transfer field, but that’s exactly where he ended up! After 15 years of experience in research, business development and technology commercialization, today, Ruben is the Associate Director of Licensing at the University of Southern California (USC) Stevens Center for Innovation.

In this episode, Ruben shares what makes the USC ecosystem so unique and diverse, which are two of the big reasons that he is so grateful to be a part of the institution. We discuss how USC supports startups, some of the most impactful technologies to come out of the university, and his hopes for the future.

Tune in today to hear it all!

In This Episode:

[00:51] An overview of Ruben’s educational and professional background.

[02:40] Why Ruben thought he would never take a job in the technology transfer field, and how he ended up here.

[05:04] What the Stevens Center for Innovation is, and where it got its name.

[05:58] How Ruben’s office is structured.

[06:56] Ruben explains how the internship program at the Stevens Center for Innovation works.

[08:25] The diverse, unique ecosystem at the University of Southern California (USC).

[10:54] Valuable connections and resources that USC provides to the startups coming out of the university.

[12:45] The program that USC runs every year through which founders and inventors receive financial awards.

[14:32] Esteemed business experience that many of the USC lecturers bring to their classrooms.

[15:54] A recently licensed USC technology which helps eradicate biases in movie scripts.

[17:10] Why Mark Thompson’s portfolio is one of the most important at USC.

[17:49] How USCs Light Stage technology is impacting the movie industry.

[19:47] The purpose of the University Technology Licensing Program at USC.

[20:37] Challenge that USC faces, which are also opportunities.

[22:05] How USC upholds their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

[23:44] Ruben’s involvement in various technology transfer organizations, and the value that he believes they hold.

[25:21] Three wishes that Ruben has for the future of USC.

Find Ruben:

At the Cutting Edge of Research with Tatiana Litvin-Vechnyak

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Tatiana Litvin-Vechnyak grew up in a family that was heavily involved in STEM, and she always had plans to become a doctor. However, while studying, she came across the field of technology transfer which combined her interests in science, business, law, and strategy, and meant that she could be at the cutting edge of research.

To date, Tatiana has over 18 years of experience in IP management, and for over 13 years has been overseeing patenting and licensing related activities at Rutgers University. She is currently the Associate Vice President of Innovation Ventures, and has built up an office which is viewed as a partner and a doer in the innovation space.

In today’s episode, Tatiana shares the diverse make-up of her large team, some of the life-changing technologies that they have been instrumental in developing (including the first approved enzyme replacement therapy delivered directly to the brain), how (and why) they maintain close relationships with outside counsel, and more!

In This Episode:

[00:50] An overview of the educational and professional background of today’s guest, Tatiana Litvin-Vechnyak.

[02:58] How Tatiana’s desire to become a doctor evolved into a career in technology transfer.

[07:02] The size of Rutgers University and the scope of its operation.

[07:48] Work that is done by Tatiana’s Innovation Ventures team, and the mission that drives them.

[08:38] Tatiana explains the structure of her large and diverse team at Rutgers.

[11:18] Technology transfer metrics which highlight some of the successes that Tatiana and her team achieved in 2021.

[13:23] Services at Rutgers that are designed to support and facilitate startups.

[17:08] Tatiana explains how the Rutgers Tech Advance Fund, Health Advance Fund, and Genesis Seed Fund’s work.

[21:44] Valuable partnerships that Rutgers has with corporate and government organizations.

[24:13] Why and how Rutgers maintains close relationships with numerous external law firms.

[28:38] Some of the life-changing innovations which have been developed at Rutgers.

[31:35] The three biggest challenges currently being faced by the Innovation Ventures team at Rutgers.

[34:25] How the Innovation Ventures team upholds Rutgers commitment to enhancing diversity, and the various other programs at the university which focus on this goal.

[36:50] Growth that Tatiana has seen take place at AUTM over the past few years.

[38:10] Tatiana’s hopes for the future of technology transfer at Rutgers.

Find Tatiana:

Rutgers Research

Spearheading Change with William Vaughan

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Throughout William Vaughan’s career, he has been spearheading change; from his time in the Governor’s office of Science and Technology where he was involved in developing Ohio’s third frontier (tech-based economic development), to his role as the Director of Technology Transfer at the Colorado School of Mines where he has helped transform the culture into one which is highly entrepreneurial.

In today’s episode, William shares what the last 13 years have looked like at Mines, with himself as the sole member of its Technology Transfer Office, and how their technology transfer metrics have soared as a result of the programs he has been instrumental in implementing.

We also discuss some of the most memorable inventions to come out of Mines, the external organizations that they have close relationships with, the funding channels they utilize for their inventors, and more!

In This Episode:

[00:52] Some background information on today’s guest, William Vaughan.

[02:04] An overview of William’s career journey; from governor's office of Science and Technology to his current position as Director of Technology Transfer at the Colorado School of Mines.

[05:17] William shares the history of Mines, and what their scope of work consists of now.

[07:13] The role that William played in changing the culture of Mines to make it more entrepreneurial.

[09:00] People within Mines whom William works closely with.

[11:47] Growth in technology transfer metrics that Mines has experienced over the past few years.

[13:43] Methods by which Mines supports the creation and sustainability of startups coming out of the institution.

[16:22] State and non-state funding that inventors at Mines’ receive.

[18:21] William mentions a few of the external partners that Mines has a close relationship with, including NREL and USGS.

[21:23] Some of the most memorable technologies to come out of Mines.

[24:43] The biggest challenge that William experiences in his role.

[26:45] Mines’ approach to enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion at the university.

[28:38] Value that William sees in being involved in AUTM.

[30:28] William’s 3 wishes for Mines.

Find William:

Leading the Way in the Ocean Space with Allison Markova

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Although they may appear to be worlds apart, Allison’s previous career in marketing provided her with skills which have been indispensable in her role as the Associate Director of Technology Transfer at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI).

WHOI is at the forefront of ocean research and education, receiving $1 out of every $3 of NSF funding for ocean research. In today’s episode, Allison shares how she and her “small but mighty” team of 2 (going on 3), are paving the way for inventors in the ocean space. We discuss the exciting changes they have made over the past few years, and how they are hoping to evolve and expand in the future.

Our conversation also covers some of the challenges they are facing and how they are working to overcome them, progress that they have made with regard to enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion (including opening up remote positions), and the positive impact that being involved in AUTM has had on her career.

In This Episode:

[00:51] Introducing today’s guest, Allison Markova.

[02:02] Allison explains how she transitioned from a career in marketing to the technology transfer industry.

[04:35] An overview of the wide range of research being done by the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI).

[06:17] WHOI’s sources of funding.

[08:21] Allison explains the makeup of her “small but mighty team.”

[12:00] The amount of internal outreach that Allison and her team have conducted in 2022.

[12:48] Examples of the external outreach that Allison and her team do in order to alleviate pressure on inventors.

[14:47] What WHOI’s greater emphasis on accelerating innovation has looked like over the past few years, and their exciting future plans in this realm.

[18:59] Three of the biggest challenges that Allison and her team are currently dealing with.

[21:45] Progress that WHOI has made with regard to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

[25:06] How remote and hybrid work environments are enhancing DEI.

[27:00] Allison’s involvement in AUTM, and how this has benefitted her career.

[28:44] Hopes that Allison has for the future of her office.

Find Allison:

AUTM Women Inventors SIG: Jane Muir, Jennifer Shockro and Jennifer Gottwald

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Although their careers have followed different paths within the Technology Transfer realm, Jane Muir, Jennifer Shockro, and Jennifer Gottwald all share a common goal of increasing greater diversity and inclusion at all stages of the innovation lifecycle. Motivated by this goal, they founded the AUTM Women Investors Special Interest Group in 2013 and subsequently developed a survey which was used to determine which factors encourage or discourage academic women's participation in technology commercialization.

In today’s episode, Jane and the two Jennifers share details about the methodology they used for the survey, the demographics of the 168 participants, some of the key findings (including the reasons that women are motivated to enter the technology transfer industry, what women in the industry desire more of, and the barriers to entry), and their recommendations.

Their hope is that the recommendations they have come up with based on the findings from the survey will impact systemic change in the technology transfer industry in the near future!

In This Episode:

[01:10] Introducing Jane Muir, founder of Muir and Associates, Jennifer Shockro, Associate Director of CalTech, and Jennifer Gottwald, Director of Listening at WARF respectively.

[03:34] Each of today’s guests shares an overview of what their journey into the world of technology transfer has looked like.

[06:48] The origins of the AUTM Women Inventors Special Interest Group (SIG), and what the overall goal of this group is.

[10:20] A shout out to the other women who have played vital roles in the Women Inventors SIG.

[11:42] The methodology of the study that was conducted by the Women Inventors SIG to assess which factors encourage or discourage women’s participation in technology commercialization.

[12:46] A breakdown of the demographics of the 168 women who participated in the survey.

[17:01] Interviews that were conducted with a proportion of the survey respondents after they had completed the survey, and how the data from the interviews and the survey were collated.

[18:41] The number one reason that women took part in technology commercialization efforts, as shown by the findings from the survey and interviews.

[19:26] What the survey showed about respondents’ knowledge of and participation in technology commercialization training programs and entrepreneurship training programs at their institutions.

[20:34] Results from the survey relating to the respondents’ understanding of the commercialization process.

[21:09] The lack of knowledge that respondents’ had around resources targeted specifically at women in the commercialization process (and the two potential reasons for this).

[22:10] Desire for mentorship that came through strongly in the research.

[22:45] The wide ranging quality of relationships that respondents’ reported having with the technology transfer offices at their institutions.

[24:46] Barriers to entry for women in the technology commercialization sphere.

[32:07] The Women Inventor SIG’s recommendations for enhancing diversity and inclusion in the technology transfer industry, based on the findings from the survey.

[37:43] Proposed legislation that we are particularly excited about.

[39:15] Data that shows that gender gaps are not just a pipeline issue.

[40:31] How the federal government and technology transfer offices can do more to enhance diversity and inclusivity.

[46:19] The incredible impact of the Bayh-Dole Act, and some of its limitations.

[48:06] Why we are proponents of allocation of federal funding to under resourced technology transfer offices and to AUTM.

[49:25] Jane, Jennifer, and Jennifer’s hopes for the future of the technology transfer industry.

Find Jane Muir:

Find Jennifer Shockro:

Find Jennifer Gottwald:

Enabling Sustained Social Impact with Serenity Wright

Wed, 23 Mar 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Social innovation can be defined and executed in many different ways. For today’s guest, Associate Director for Social Innovation at the University of Kentucky, the concept refers to innovations with a focus on sustained social impact, and her unit’s approach to creating ecosystems which enable these innovations to flourish is the focus of today’s episode.

Serenity Wright’s deep drive to enhance equity and access to opportunities for underrepresented innovators drew her into the realm of technology transfer. This passion, combined with her diverse educational and career path, and the unique perspective she has gained from working in numerous communities around the world, all contribute to her continued success in the field, despite the challenges she has faced along the way.

In today’s episode, Serenity explains how her unit addresses their three key focal areas, namely, faculty research, experiential learning, and community engagement, and she offers advice to institutions who are interested in enhancing their own social innovation sector.

In This Episode:

[00:51] Introducing today’s guest, Serenity Wright.

[03:04] The many different areas within which Serenity has lived and worked, and the unique perspective this has given her.

[03:57] What Serenity’s career journey has consisted of to date.

[05:31] How Serenity defines social innovation

[08:53] Serenity explains the evolution of the Social Innovation unit at the University of Kentucky, and how they are advancing social innovation.

[13:00] Additional details around the research and community elements of Serenity’s Social Innovation unit.

[16:08] How Serenity and her team enhance faculty research and experiential learning at the university.

[18:01] Prerequisites for successful community engagement.

[19:07] Challenges that Serenity and her team have faced while working in the social innovation space, and advice to anyone seeking social innovation disclosures for their office.

[22:37] Commitments that universities need to be making in order to enhance social innovation.

[25:49] What Serenity is feeling most excited about at the moment, why she loves her team so much.

[31:59] Their greatest strength of Serenity’s unit, which is also their greatest weakness.

[34:58] Why now is the time to be accelerating social innovation, and how the new AUTM Special Interest Group intends to do that.

[39:07] The big vision, and three wishes that Serenity has for her unit.

Find Serenity:

Long Term Value Creation with RK Narayanan

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Rather than focusing on traditional technology transfer metrics, RK Narayanan and his team at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory measure their success in terms of their ability to create value in the long term.

In today’s episode, RK, who is the Senior Director of Business Development and Technology Transfer at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, explains their approach to long term value creation, which is built on a foundation of sustainable relationships. RK also shares the life-changing technology that his team were involved in taking to market, the people who make up his ‘lean machine’ team, and some of the key industry partnerships that they have cultivated.

RK’s career began on the research side of things, but exploring alternative opportunities led him to the world of technology transfer, and his excitement about this field is contagious!

In This Episode:

[00:52] Introducing RK Narayanan, today’s guest.

[01:58] RK shares what his journey in the US has consisted of, since he moved here from India to pursue his PhD.

[06:03] What RK’s Business Development (and Technology Transfer) team at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory focuses their efforts on.

[06:53] Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory’s research budget, and where their funding comes from.

[08:22] People who make up RK’s team.

[09:57] Why RK and his team don’t focus too heavily on metrics, and what they use as measures of success instead.

[11:16] How Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory supports start-ups that come out of the laboratory.

[12:24] RK explains what the concept of value creation means to him and his team.

[14:50] Partnerships which RK and his team have been cultivating over the past few years.

[16:36] RK shares one of his office’s biggest success stories.

[18:21] The biggest challenges that RK and his team are facing at the moment.

[19:27] Examples of Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory’s efforts to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion.

[22:11] RK’s thoughts on the 2022 AUTM Annual Meeting, and the value that he sees in being a part of the organization.

[23:59] Three wishes that RK has for the future of technology transfer at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory.

Find RK:

Shepherding Ideas from Lab to Marketplace with Michele Tyrpak

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 08:00:00 +0000

The University of South Florida (USF) is ranked top 10 in the US and top 20 worldwide for patents, and today’s guest, Michele Tyrpak, is a patent attorney who is currently the interim Associate Director of Technology Transfer at this prolific research university!

The overall aim of the Technology Transfer office is to shepherd ideas from USFs lab, to the marketplace, and Michele’s prior experience on the industry side has given her an invaluable perspective on how to bridge the gap that exists between the two. In today’s episode Michele explains the roles of the various teams which make up her office, and how each team contributes towards the ultimate goal.

We discuss some of the many innovative technologies that have come out of USF in recent years, including a 3D COVID swab and treatments for Alzheimers. Michele also shares some metrics which highlight how much her office has achieved, USFs approach to enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion, and the admirable goals she would like to see her office bring to fruition in the future!

In This Episode:

[00:52] Introducing today’s guest, patent attorney and associate director of technology transfer at the University of South Florida (USF), Michele.

[02:05] Michele shares the journey that led her to work in the technology transfer field.

[04:22] An overview of the role of the technology transfer office at USF.

[06:22] The size and structure of Michele’s office.

[10:08] Metrics which highlight the effectiveness of USFs technology transfer office.

[11:47] How Michele’s office supports start-ups which are formed at USF.

[14:05] Funding that is available to start-ups at USF.

[15:56] Examples of industry partners that Michele’s office has close relationships with.

[17:28] Some of the most noteworthy technologies that have come out of USF.

[20:20] The biggest issues that Michele’s office is currently facing.

[21:06] Differences between the ways in which industry and educational institutions work; Michele shares her experience from both sides.

[22:12] How USF emphasizes enhancement of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

[25:07] Organizations that USF is involved with, and the value that Michele sees in these connections.

[27:10] Changes that Michele hopes to see take place in the technology transfer field in the future.

Find Michele:

Black History Month

Tue, 01 Mar 2022 00:34:05 +0000

A new episode

Sights and Sounds of AUTM Day 3

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 20:49:34 +0000

A new episode

Sights and Sounds of AUTM Day 2

Tue, 22 Feb 2022 16:13:39 +0000

A new episode

Sights and Sounds of AUTM Day 1

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 21:43:57 +0000

A new episode

The Full Spectrum of Innovation with T. Greg Tucker

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 08:00:49 +0000

As a technology transfer professional who also has many years of experience as a researcher (in both the chemical biology and physical sciences realms) and an entrepreneur, today’s guest offers a uniquely diverse perspective on the innovation sector.

Greg Tucker, or Dr. T as he is affectionately known by his colleagues, is a co-inventor on 5 U.S. patents, the cofounder of a number of different startups (including a chemical company and an electric bike company), and currently the Commercialization Manager at the University of Louisville (and he still manages to find the time to do a lot of mentoring and outreach work too!).

In today’s episode, Greg shares what his relatively new role entails, the advancements being driven by the university through its Grand Challenges initiative, exciting startups that they have facilitated (which range from reusable PPE to a less wasteful Bourbon distilling process), how his office of Innovation and Commercialization supports these startups, the university’s approach to enhancing diversity, equity and inclusion, and more!

In This Episode:

[00:51] A rundown of the educational and professional background of today’s guest, T. Greg Tucker.

[03:10] Where Greg’s interest in electricity originated, and what his journey in this field has looked like.

[04:52] Greg’s interest in cycling, and the cycling-related startups he was involved in.

[06:10] What drew Greg to the world of technology transfer.

[08:02] Some details about the role that Greg has held for the past 10 months.

[09:10] Goals of the Grand Challenges initiative at the University of Louisville.

[11:03] Examples of the exciting research and inventions coming out of the University of Louisville.

[15:53] An overview of the Launch It program offered by the University of Louisville, and what Greg sees as the benefits of it.

[18:12] Greg explains how his office is structured, and the positions they are currently looking to fill.

[20:56] ‘Science dollars’ and licensing income that Greg’s Office of Innovation and Commercialization has brought in over the past year.

[21:48] The startup responsible for the biggest IPO in the history of the University of Louisville.

[22:42] Innovative uses for the byproduct of the Bourbon distilling process which were discovered by professors at the University of Louisville.

[25:50] How Greg’s office supports startups coming out of the university.

[28:57] Some of the key partnerships that Greg’s office has cultivated with external institutions and philanthropic organizations.

[32:45] Challenges that Greg’s office is currently facing, and the changes they are in the process of making.

[34:10] How AUTM has assisted Greg in terms of his professional development.

[35:18] The numerous ways in which the University of Louisville is enhancing diversity, equity and inclusion.

[38:52] Freelance work that Greg does to help other innovators thrive.

[43:47] Organizations that Greg is involved with.

[47:29] Three wishes that Greg has for his office.

Find Greg:

Gearing Up for AUTM 2022 Annual Meeting with Laura Savatski

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 08:00:30 +0000

After two years without a face-to-face gathering, we are just a few days away from the AUTM 2022 Annual Meeting! Today’s episode is a special one, where Laura Savatski, the Chair of AUTM, gives us a rundown of what you can expect as an attendee at the event this year.

The AUTM Annual Meeting is incredibly important for the organization, and serves as a fantastic way to gain exposure to what’s going on in the world of technology transfer. If you aren’t one of the 1100 people who have already registered, you still have time to do so, and we couldn't recommend it more highly!

In This Episode:

[00:53] Introducing today’s guest; AUTM chair, Laura Savatski.

[01:53] The number of people who have registered for the AUTM Annual Meeting, which kicks off in less than a week!

[02:00] What attendees can expect from the AUTM Annual Meeting.

[02:32] Safety protocols that AUTM has put in place for the meeting (and where you can find more information).

[04:02] The number of international guests expected at the AUTM Annual Meeting.

[04:39] Laura shares the focal topics of the keynote presentations that will be taking place at the AUTM Annual Meeting.

[07:39] How the AUTM Annual Meeting will prioritize equity, diversity, and inclusion.

[08:21] Recommendations for AUTM Annual Meeting first time attendees.

[12:41] What Laura is most excited about for this year’s AUTM Annual Meeting.

[14:04] Why the AUTM Annual Meeting is so important for the field of technology transfer.

AUTM 2022 Annual Meeting:

Continuous Improvement with Rick Huebsch

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 08:00:00 +0000

When Rick Huebsch joined the Technology Commercialization office at the University of Minnesota almost 14 years ago, it was in need of a major reboot. Through financial investments and staffing the office with industry-experienced people (including Rick, who had 20 years of experience in the software industry), the office has been transformed, and Rick, who is currently the Executive Director, has played a very valuable role in this transformation!

Rick’s office is now a standard fixture in the top ten rankings for technology transfer metrics. This past year saw them achieve a record number of license agreements (236, to be exact), and they are on track to reaching their goal of launching 25 startups in the year 2025! With their commercialization metrics steadily growing, Rick’s office is now also placing a lot of emphasis on enhancing diversity, equity and inclusion.

Tune in today to hear about the numerous factors that make Rick’s office stand out, some of the successful companies that they have helped get off the ground, some of the challenges that they are currently facing, and more!

In This Episode:

[00:52] An introduction to today’s guest, Rick Huebsch

[02:07] Rick’s experience in the software industry, and how he found his way into the technology transfer space.

[03:35] The role of Rick’s Technology Commercialization office at the University of Minnesota, and how the office has been rebooted since he became involved.

[07:14] Structure and size of Rick’s office.

[09:40] Rick explains the aim of their Tech Commercialization Fellows Program.

[11:00] Statistics which demonstrate how successful the past year was for Rick’s office.

[14:06] How the University of Minnesota’s Venture Centre works, and how it helps startups survive and thrive.

[18:57] The funding ecosystem that exists for start-ups in the Minnesota area.

[22:15] Rick explains how things have changed for his office with regard to corporate partnerships over the past few years.

[26:54] Some of the major success stories to come out of the University of Minnesota.

[33:12] Challenges that are currently facing the technology transfer sector, and how Rick and his team are dealing with them.

[35:06] The work that Rick’s office is doing to enhance diversity, equity and inclusion.

[39:04] Technology transfer organizations that Rick and his team are involved with.

[41:24] Three wishes that Rick would want to have granted if they were possible.

Find Rick:

The Bigger Picture with Sean Fielding

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Today’s guest, Sean Fielding, was formally educated in languages, which may seem incongruous for someone who is the Director of Innovation, Impact and Business at the University of Exeter. However, Sean’s educational background has in fact been a huge asset in the technology transfer space; his 25 years of enormous success in the sector being more than enough proof!

When Sean was brought to Exeter to establish the University’s Technology Transfer office, there were no commercial relationships worth mentioning and his team consisted of himself and his secretary. Today, his team is 175 people strong, and they have completely changed the entrepreneurial landscape in the region!

Sean’s main goal is to support the University in activities which lead to innovation in the community, and in today’s episode you’ll hear about the engagement strategy they are using to achieve this, how they deal with the challenges that come with being a peripheral city, why Sean doesn’t put huge stock in commercialisation metrics as a measure of success, and what the bigger picture looks like going forward!

In This Episode:

[00:51] An overview of Sean Fielding's background in technology transfer.

[03:00] How Sean’s language-focused education has been an asset in the technology transfer space.

[04:16] The job that drew Sean to the University of Exeter, and how his team has grown over the years he has been there.

[05:50] Sean explains broadly what his office of Innovation, Impact and Business does, and the kinds of businesses that they work with.

[07:30] The education provision component of Sean’s work.

[09:42] Goals of the engagement strategy that Sean and his team began implementing in 2017, and what they have achieved since then.

[13:16] Hopes that Sean has for the future of Innovation, Impact and Business at the University of Exeter.

[14:51] Examples of some of the regionally focused projects that Sean and his team have established.

[19:00] How the policy environment in the UK has changed over the past few years, and how this has impacted the work being done by Sean and his team.

[21:25] Challenges of securing funding in peripheral locations and how Sean’s office works around these.

[25:27] Sean’s opinion on using commercialisation metrics as a measure of success.

[28:47] The critical factor that determines the success (or not) of innovation projects.

[31:05] Some of the key industry partnerships that Exeter has, and why these are important.

[35:10] Sean shares some of his favorite spin-out success stories to come out of the University of Exeter.

[40:15] What Sean sees as the two main challenges facing the technology transfer field at the moment.

[43:45] Programs at the University of Exeter which are focused on diversity, equity and inclusion.

[46:56] Organizations that Sean’s team is involved with,

[48:11] Why Sean strongly believes in the importance of credentialing.

[50:08] Three visions that Sean has for the future of technology transfer.

Find Sean:

From Strength to Strength in Switzerland with Silvio Bonaccio

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 08:00:00 +0000

ETH is one of Switzerland’s main public universities. It has 16 departments, 23 000 students, and 250 faculty members. Today’s guest, Silvio Bonaccio, who attended the university as a student himself, has been the head of its technology transfer office since 2005.

Silvio’s 31-person strong team is divided into 3 focal areas; contracts, technology licensing, and support of start-ups. They do approximately 200 invention disclosures per year, acquire around 100 patents, and get between 25 and 30 startups off the ground every year. These numbers are impressive but Silvio knows that they have the potential to achieve far more, and the coming years are sure to bring great things for him and his team.

In this episode, Silvio explains some of the innovative programs that are run by ETH, a few of his favorite success stories (ranging from car sensors to meat replacements), challenges that are facing the technology transfer sector as a whole, and what he sees as the keys to success!

In This Episode:

[00:51] Introducing today’s guest, Silvio Bonaccio.

[01:58] The chance encounter that led Silvio to join the ETH Technology Transfer team.

[03:27] Silvio explains how ETH is structured.

[05:06] How ETHs technology park came into being, and the goal that drives it.

[06:54] A problem being faced by research institutions, and how ETH is responding to it.

[09:02] ETH’s involvement in the European Space Agency Business Incubation Centre program.

[11:49] Silvio shares some details about one of his favorite programs at ETH.

[14:25] Similarities and differences between Switzerland’s technology transfer sector and that of the United States.

[17:45] Examples of initiatives which aim to fill that gap that arises in bigger round funding in Switzerland.

[19:39] What Switzerland’s academic system looks like.

[20:20] How the laws governing technology transfer at ETH have evolved over time.

[22:14] The three areas of activity that ETH’s technology transfer team is divided into.

[25:08] Silvio shares some of ETHs technology transfer metrics, and how they hope to improve these in the future.

[26:38] The importance of building networks as a technology transfer professional.

[27:40] Examples of the collaborations between ETH and big industry players.

[30:47] Relationships that ETH has with philanthropic organizations.

[32:19] Some important lessons that Silvio has learned through his many years of experience in the technology transfer sector.

[34:13] Some of the biggest successes for which Silvio and his team are responsible.

[36:03] Upcoming company launches that Silvio is most excited about.

[38:11] A few of the main challenges that the technology transfer sector as a whole is facing.

[40:32] The gender split in Silvio’s office, and how the team works towards enhancing gender equality in the technology transfer space.

[43:10] Value that Silvio sees in being part of technology transfer organizations.

[45:55] What Silvio sees as the pros and cons of credentialing.

[47:39] Silvio’s wishes for founders, investors, and ETH.

Find Silvio:

ETH Zurich

Driving Prosperity Through Technology Transfer in New Zealand with James Hutchinson and May Low

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Today’s guests, James Hutchinson and May Low, are the CEO and COO (respectively) of the Kiwi Innovation Network (more commonly known as KiwiNet). Their complementary skill sets (James with his science-focused education and May with her financial background) make this duo, along with the rest of their team, a force to be reckoned with!

Their goal is to drive prosperity, subsequently changing the world for the better, and so far they’re doing an incredible job; over the lifetime of the KiwiNet fund they have generated a greater than 8 fold financial return to New Zealand, formed almost 70 spin-off companies, funded 163 projects which have led to 523 commercial deals, and created over 600 employment opportunities!

Tune in today to hear about New Zealand’s emerging and unique entrepreneurial ecosystem, the range of programs that KiwiNet supports (including details about their Maori Engagement Plan), some of James and May’s favorite success stories, and their hopes and dreams for the future!

In This Episode:

[00:50] Introducing today’s guest, James and May, respectively CEO and COO of Kiwi Net.

[03:52] May shares what inspired her to get into the technology transfer space.

[04:52] Where James’s passion lies, and how his science background complements May’s financial one.

[07:08] How KiwiNet came into being, and an explanation of what the organization does.

[09:41] KiwiNet’s sources of funding.

[11:00] The invaluable role played by the investment committee at KiwiNet.

[11:53] An overview of the various programs that KiwiNet runs.

[18:04] The key element that forms the basis of the KiwiNet strategy.

[19:30] What the entrepreneurial community in New Zealand is like.

[21:39] Similarities and differences between the way technology transfer and commercialization is handled in New Zealand and other countries.

[26:37] The role played by the New Zealand government in the technology transfer space.

[28:14] A rundown of how the KiwiNet team is structured.

[33:31] James shares some of KiwiNet’s incredible achievements.

[37:50] What James sees as the keys to success in the technology transfer space.

[40:35] KiwiNet’s relationship with the private sector, and how this benefits both industry and the university ecosystem.

[43:45] Partnerships between KiwiNet and philanthropic organizations.

[45:14] May and James share some of their most memorable success stories.

[52:29] Some of the main challenges that KiwiNet is currently facing, and how these can also be viewed as opportunities.

[54:28] How the KiwiNet mission has evolved over time.

[56:49] KiwiNet’s approach to diversity, equity and inclusion, including some details about their Maori Engagement Plan.

[1:03:56] Three wishes that May and James have for the future of KiwiNet, and technology transfer in New Zealand as a whole.

Find James:

TEDx Talk

Find May:

Unstoppable Growth with Abram Goldfinger

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 08:00:00 +0000

When Abram Goldfinger arrived in New York, there was little significant entrepreneurial activity taking place. In part through his efforts, it is now a thriving entrepreneurial hub. An example which illustrates this point is the fact that NYU’s Technology Opportunity and Ventures (TOV) office, of which Abram is the Executive Director, has gone from launching 2 or 3 startups a year in the early 2000’s to almost 20 over the past few years!

In today’s episode, Abram talks us through his educational background and what drew him to the field of technology transfer. We discuss how TOV is structured, the various forms of support that they offer to inventors and entrepreneurs, and the importance of maintaining strong working relationships.

The success that TOV has achieved since Abram has been involved is astounding, and his optimism about the future of technology transfer is infectious!

In This Episode:

[00:51] An introduction to today’s guest, Abram Goldfinger.

[02:09] Abram’s educational background, and how it led him to the world of technology transfer.

[04:32] A description of the work being done by Technology Opportunities and Ventures (TOV), NYUs technology transfer program.

[06:18] How TOVs investment approach has evolved over the time that Abram has led the program.

[11:35] The goal of the NYU Langone Health Venture Fund.

[12:51] Team members who make up the TOV team, and some of their achievements over the past year.

[14:40] What Abram sees as a major key to success in the technology transfer field.

[16:39] How Abram and his team support start-ups that come out of NYU.

[19:21] Examples of industry relationships that TOV has formed.

[22:35] Philanthropic organizations that TOV has worked with.

[25:15] The two most successful product inventions that TOV has been involved in.

[26:22] Abram shares more successful ventures that TOV has helped bring to the world.

[29:29] Challenges that TOV faces, and how Abram and his team deal with them.

[32:00] How TOV supports underrepresented groups in the technology transfer field.

[34:18] Abram and his teams’ involvement with AUTM (and other organizations of a similar nature).

[36:51] Value that Abram sees in the process of achieving credentials in the technology transfer field.

[38:28] What Abram hopes TOVs future is going to look like.

Find Abram:

Embracing Evolution in Technology Transfer with Alice Li

Wed, 05 Jan 2022 08:00:00 +0000

If you aren’t aware of the extent of the depth and breadth of technology transfer, this episode with Alice Li will leave you with a whole new understanding and appreciation of the field.

As the Director of the Centre for Technology Licensing (CTL) at Cornell University, and with 18 years of university technology transfer under her belt, Alice is well positioned to discuss the way the field has evolved over time, and to offer advice on how to approach this continuously changing environment.

Alice’s management and licensing expertise is matched by her desire to serve; a powerful combination which she is using to catalyze meaningful developments in the technology transfer space!

In This Episode:

[00:50] A rundown of Alice’s educational and career history.

[03:05] The interdisciplinary nature of the technology transfer field, and how Alice was introduced to it.

[05:16] How technology transfer has evolved over the years.

[05:56] Alice explains the role of Cornell’s Centre for Technology Licensing (CTL).

[07:47] Growth that Cornell’s gap funding series has experienced over the past few years, and the different stages that make up the series.

[11:49] The venture funding environment at Cornell University.

[12:58] How the CTL office is structured, and why it is structured in this way.

[17:01] Variety that exists in the types of ecosystems that CTL works with.

[18:12] The upsides and downsides of the COVID-19 pandemic for CTL.

[19:34] Why Alice believes that defining and measuring progress is a key to success.

[22:16] How the people you surround yourself with play a role in determining your outcomes.

[24:20] Cornell’s approach to supporting start-up’s.

[27:41] Alice shares some of Cornell’s biggest success stories.

[31:00] Examples of how the technology transfer field is continuously changing, and the mindset that Alice has adopted in order to deal with it.

[33:32] The importance of having a global reach and perspective.

[36:17] How CTL is working towards enhancing diversity and inclusion.

[39:31] Professional organizations that CTL is involved with.

[42:43] Alice’s recently appointed role at AUTM, and what drove her to take it on.

[45:10] Value that Alice sees in credentialing.

[47:18] Hopes that Alice has for the future of CTL.

Find Alice:

Technology Transfer in Austria with Markus Wanko

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Today’s guest is Markus Wanko, the Head of Technology Transfer at TWIST, which is the Tech Transfer organization for the Institute of Science and Technology (IST) in Austria.

Markus has been driving the development of IST Park, the technology park adjacent to IST Austria and IST Cube, a science and tech-based seed fund.

Markus came to TWIST after a 15-year career in investing and strategy. Specifically, Markus’ background is in venture capital investing with Safeguard Scientifics and the European Investment Fund, strategy consulting with the Boston Consulting Group, and principal investment with QIA, one of the world’s largest sovereign wealth funds.

Over the course of his career, Markus has supported a broad range of startups in the process, energy, and tech industries.

In today’s episode, you’ll hear Markus discuss how he came to Austria and to TWIST, how Tech Transfer in Austria compares to other countries, and how TWIST has been making an impact.

In This Episode:

[02:21] How Markus Wanko ended up in Austria and at TWIST.

[04:30] Markus talks about TWIST and IST Austria.

[06:46] We learn more about IST Park.

[08:19] IST Cube’s background.

[10:31] Venture funding can be difficult in Austria. What other fundings are available for Austrian startups?

[11:52] How tech transfer is handled in Austria and how it compares to the US and the UK.

[14:30] The role of the Austrian government in tech transfer.

[16:03] Markus’ office structure and his surprising team size.

[17:29] The benefits of having a Fellowship Program for the team.

[19:48] Markus addresses putting the total amount of inventions, disclosures, patent filings, and royalty revenues in the last five years into context.

[21:58] The most important aspect of managing innovations that gives them the greatest chance of success.

[24:01] Tech transfer offices can also make contributions to the success of managing innovations. Here’s how.

[24:32] Markus shares some examples of TWIST’s corporate partners.

[26:03] Markus reveals some successful technologies and startups that have come out of TWIST.

[28:10] Are there any big challenges for TWIST?

[30:07] The diversity, equity, and inclusion program at TWIST.

[32:50] Does credentialing in the tech transfer industry make a difference?

[34:45] Three wishes that Markus would make to improve his office.

Find Markus:

IST Cube

The Long Road to Diversity with Natalie Cozier

Wed, 15 Dec 2021 08:00:00 +0000

“A society without black leaders and black researchers does not bear thinking about.”

Dr. Natalie Cozier is, among many other things, a black female doctor, scientist, researcher and consultant who has been subjected to abuse and harassment in the workplace, and in society in general, because of the color of her skin.

Despite this, she stays resilient, and this resilience has led her to have a very successful career in the technology transfer industry. She is now determined to make the industry that changed her life a more welcoming place for people from racially and ethnically diverse backgrounds, and in today’s episode she explains the work that is needed to make this possible.

Join us today for a very powerful and insightful discussion on a very important topic.

In This Episode:

[00:46] Why today’s episode is extra special.

[01:18] Today’s guest, Dr. Natalie Cozier, shares some of the numerous characteristics that make her, her.

[03:00] Negative experiences that Natalie has had in the workplace, and in society as a whole, as a result of the color of her skin.

[04:34] Natalie shares why she is here today to share her story.

[05:07] The problem of not having role models that look like you.

[06:26] How Natalie has kept going despite the immense challenges that she has faced.

[07:24] Some treasured experiences from Natalie’s career.

[10:54] Why the UK research sector lacks diversity.

[14:06] Natalie shares some statistics which highlights the lack of diversity, equity and inclusion in the research sector in the UK.

[17:22] The benefits of working in a diverse organization.

[18:07] How the technology transfer field should be progressing in terms of diversity, equity and inclusion.

[22:10] What Natalie wishes she could tell her younger self.

[22:57] Three ways to improve diversity, equity and inclusion in the technology transfer sector.

Find Natalie:

Thriving Against the Odds with Alvaro Ossa

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Today’s guest hails from Chile, a country which still has a long way to go in terms of its capacity for technology transfer, but being the home of many world-class scientists, and with people like today’s guest, Alvaro Ossa, leading the charge, the future looks bright.

For over 15 years Alvaro Ossa has combined his creativity with his engineering skills to head-up the R&D effort, IP protection and commercialization of research at Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (UC). Despite a lack of government funding and a technology transfer policy, UC has achieved a number of major successes over the years, some of which you will hear about in today’s episode.

Among other valuable knowledge, Alvaro also shares the 6 golden rules for promoting successful technology transfer processes, which are detailed in his book. Alvaro’s passion for advancing the technology transfer ecosystem extends to the whole of Latin America; watch this space!

In This Episode:

[00:50] An introduction to today’s guest, Alvaro Ossa.

[03:23] Alvaro shares what drew him to the field of technology transfer.

[04:26] Some of the characteristics that make Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (UC) a stand-out educational institution in Chile.

[06:17] A broad overview of the economic ecosystem and technology transfer industry in Latin America.

[08:04] How the Chilean government is evolving to support technology transfer, and the work that still needs to be done.

[09:45] A major factor which makes partnerships between universities and the private sector challenging, and how UC is working to overcome this.

[11:04] How UC supports entrepreneurship.

[13:38] The venture capital fund set up by the UC, and what has been achieved through this funding stream.

[15:21] Alvaro explains how his office is structured, and how they divide up their work.

[16:39] What Alvaro’s office has been able to accomplish over the past year.

[18:03] The competition established by UC, and how it has benefited the university’s technology transfer field.

[12:12] Six golden rules proposed by Alvaro that promote successful technology transfer processes (which you can read more about in his book, Del laboratorio al mercado, currently available in Spanish).

[23:50] The most significant donation that UC has received.

[25:11] GeneproDX; what this UC spin-off company does.

[27:39] Alvaro shares some of UC’s other technology transfer success stories.

[29:06] The focus of Alvaro’s office.

[30:02] How UC is working towards enhancing diversity, equity and inclusion.

[31:01] Organizations that Alvaro is a part of, and the value that he sees in them.

[32:06] What Alvaro sees as the most important element of the technology transfer process.

[32:54] Three wishes that Alvaro has for the technology transfer industry.

Find Alvaro:

Instagram

Technology Licensing Office at MIT

“Don’t Close Doors Without Trying Something Out” with Lesley Millar-Nicholson

Wed, 01 Dec 2021 08:00:00 +0000

When Scottish physical education teacher, Lesley Millar-Nicholson, moved to America for her then partner, and now wife, she could never have imagined the career trajectory that lay ahead of her.

An internship in the technology transfer office at the University of Illinois (where she received her MBA) led to a licensing job, which in turn led to her becoming the director of the office. She held this position for 10 years before moving on to her current role as director of the Technology Licensing Office at MIT, which receives one of the highest volumes of inventions per year across all United States universities!

In today’s episode, you’ll hear about Lesley’s team, the various programs that they are involved in, MITs unique approach to corporate engagement, and the challenges that sit alongside the rewards. There are too many to name them all, but Lesley shares a few of the inventions and start-up’s which have come out of MIT’s technology transfer office, including one which landed them an Emmy.

In This Episode:

[00:51] Introducing today’s Scottish born and bred guest, Lesley.

[02:07] Lesley shares what brought her to America, and the journey that led her to the technology transfer field.

[04:24] Why Lesley feels so comfortable in the Northeast United States.

[05:45] What Lesley’s technology transfer team at MIT looks like, and their yearly volume of work.

[07:12] Examples of MIT’s innovation programs.

[08:51] An explanation of the Shirley Transformation Project.

[12:11] OSATT; Lesley explains the important role played by this organization at MIT.

[15:34] What drove the founding of TenU, and what this group of university technology transfer offices does together.

[17:59] How TenU has dealt with the changes that have come about as a result of COVID-19 pandemic.

[19:41] The sole focus of Lesley’s office, and how it is structured.

[21:20] Faculty satisfaction; why Lesley sees this, rather than traditional metrics, as a key to success in the technology transfer field.

[22:34] MIT’s unique and multi-faceted methods of corporate engagement.

[27:09] The prestigious award sitting in the MIT office.

[28:08] Some of the major technologies and start-up’s which have come out of MIT.

[31:35] Two of the biggest challenges being experienced by Lesley’s office.

[33:16] How MIT approaches issues of diversity, equity and inclusion.

[35:47] Comparing MIT’s number of female inventors with the national average, and how they are working towards lowering barriers to engagement.

[38:03] How potential female founders are treated differently to their male counterparts, and the negative impacts of this.

[40:57] Boards of which Lesley is, or has been, a member.

[42:23] Lesley’s opinion on the value of credentialing.

[43:40] Dreams that Lesley has for the future of her office.

Find Lesley:

Driving Real World Impact with Orin Herskowitz

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 08:00:00 +0000

As an English major, Orin Herskowitz was an unlikely candidate for the science heavy world of technology transfer. However, after overcoming the initial imposter syndrome he felt when he became part of the technology transfer team at Columbia University, he realized that the field requires people with a wide range of skill sets, and he quickly found his feet.

As Orin explains today, universities have four main purposes; training the next generation of world leaders, pushing boundaries of knowledge through basic research, engaging with local communities, and driving change in the outside world. Columbia Technology Ventures (CTV) is able to create a very meaningful impact outside its walls through the approximately 200 patents, 120 commercial license agreements, and 15 to 30 new companies that it brings to fruition every year.

In addition to these incredible metrics, they also have a Lab to Market Accelerator Network, programs with a strong focus on diversity and inclusion, a podcast hosted by Orin, and close relationships with numerous external organizations. Tune in today to find out more about the work going on behind the scenes of this transformative institution!

In This Episode:

[00:53] What Orin’s educational and professional journey has consisted of up until today.

[03:11] Why Orin went to work at the Boston Consulting Group, and how this led him to the field of technology transfer.

[06:03] Imposter syndrome that Orin struggled with when he went to work in Columbia’s technology transfer office.

[06:43] The realization Orin had about the value he brought to tech transfer.

[07:46] Categorizing Columbia’s approximately 400 inventions per year.

[08:42] Patents, license agreements, and new companies coming out of Columbia Technology Ventures (CTV) each year,

[09:29] How CTV’s focus, and thus Orin’s role, has expanded over the years.

[11:36] The “economic miracle” of Boston.

[12:29] Columbia’s Lab to Market Accelerator Network, and how it originated.

[15:52] Four new Accelerators that Columbia launched this fall.

[16:48] Metrics which highlight the success of the Lab to Market Accelerators.

[19:15] How core staff and support staff are distributed throughout CTV.

[20:43] The CTV program which focuses on diversity and inclusion, and how they are hoping to expand it.

[22:47] Assumed privileges in the technology transfer realm, and how CTV is trying to help those without them.

[23:57] Orin’s motivation for starting a podcast.

[26:25] I share what inspired me to launch Tech Transfer IP.

[30:44] Constraints that many technology transfer offices, particularly at smaller universities, struggle against.

[33:40] The four purposes of universities.

[34:51] How Columbia is fulfilling its obligation to drive meaningful impact in the outside world.

[36:15] Multifold benefits that arise from engaging with institutions outside of the university setting.

[36:53] Some of the organizations that Columbia has a close relationship with.

[38:35] Orin shares one of CTV’s biggest success stories.

[43:19] A challenge being faced by CTV, as well as many other technology transfer offices.

[45:18] The collaborative nature of the technology transfer field.

[46:59] Orin’s involvement with AUTM, and the value he sees in this organization.

[47:47] Other groups within and outside of the technology transfer realm that Orin is involved with.

[49:26] Gratitude that Orin feels for his team and his job.

Find Orin:

From Sales to Technology Transfer with Todd Keiller

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Today’s guest started his career as a salesman, and his many years of experience in the sales world equipped him with skills that have been indispensable throughout his journey as the director of Worcester Polytechnic Institute’s (WPI) Office of Technology Commercialization. Todd and his two team members are responsible for the commercializing effort at WPI, and since 2009 they have taken the technology transfer metrics at the university from zero to off the charts in relation to the size and financial standing of their office.

In today’s episode you’ll hear about the various technology transfer related programs that they run at the university, their well developed relationships with corporate partners, the unique way that Todd’s office celebrates receipts of patent licenses, and the invention which they helped to facilitate which is on track to make a global-scale positive impact!

In This Episode:

[00:53] A rundown of Todd’s educational and professional background.

[02:14] Todd’s original career path, and what led him to veer into the technology transfer field.

[04:39] What WPI specializes in, and the important role being filled by Todd’s small yet powerful Office of Technology Commercialization.

[07:50] The unique way that Todd’s office celebrates receipts of patent licenses (which has been adopted by other chapters of the National Academy of Inventors)

[09:50] Radical increases in the technology transfer metrics at WPI since Todd’s appointment, and how his previous career influenced his ability to create such meaningful change.

[11:57] One of the most important lessons that Todd learned about how to deal with an overwhelming workload.

[13:10] WPI’s close ties to its corporate partners, and how these benefit the university.

[15:27] How Todd manages expectations of the companies that they deal with.

[16:50] The incredible story about an invention that Todd helped facilitate.

[20:50] How WPI will benefit from the invention.

[21:51] Challenges that Todd is currently facing.

[22:44] WPI’s high percentage of women inventors and students.

[24:43] Value Todd sees in technology transfer organizations.

[25:57] Todd’s thoughts on credentialing at different stages of a person's career.

[26:40] What Todd loves most about his job, and his hope for the future of the field.

Find Todd:

Building Entrepreneurial Communities in Denmark with Thomas Schmidt

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Like many technology transfer professionals, Thomas Schmidt found his way into the field by accident, after a part-time marketing role turned into a full-time business development position. His passion has been unwavering ever since, and after his 7-year stint at Aarhus University, he moved to the University of Southern Denmark (SDU), where, for the past 8 years, he has been the head of the technology transfer department.

Thomas’s office managed to get through 2020 without any major issues, but there are still some areas where Thomas sees room for improvement, which you will hear about in today’s episode. We also discuss how Denmark’s technology transfer environment differs from other countries across the world, and the work that is being done by Thomas’s small, highly skilled office to build a close-knit entrepreneurial ecosystem, with particular emphasis on the robotics and life sciences industries.

In This Episode:

[00:53] An introduction to today’s guest, Thomas Schmidt.

[01:48] Thomas’s unplanned entry into the technology transfer field.

[02:56] The structure of the technology transfer office at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU), and the projects that they focus on.

[04:36] How SDU’s unique programs and funding mechanisms are building a more entrepreneurial community in Denmark.

[07:00] The maturity level of Denmark’s technology transfer environment, and how it compares to other countries.

[09:26] SDU’s approach to securing venture capital and funding, and how they fared during the pandemic.

[12:28] Diverse skill sets of Thomas’s team members.

[14:01] Thomas shares his office’s achievement metrics.

[16:35] Dedicated incubators that SDU has.

[17:15] What Thomas sees as the key to success in the technology transfer field.

[18:57] The philanthropic organization that SDU partners with.

[21:12] SDU’s diverse technology portfolio, and some of the successful projects that Thomas is most proud of.

[23:01] Challenges that Thomas and his team are currently facing, and how he hopes these will be resolved in the future.

[25:19] Denmark’s most prevalent equality issues, and how SDU’s is working to combat this.

[28:44] ASTP; the technology transfer organization that SDU is involved with.

[29:58] The value that Thomas sees in credentialing.

[32:21] Changes that Thomas would like to see happening in Denmark’s technology transfer field in the future.

Find Thomas:

Fostering Innovation in Northern Ontario with Ellen MacKay

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Not only is Ellen MacKay the only registered technology transfer professional in her department, but she is also the only one in the whole of Northern Ontario! After completing her Master’s in education at Lakehead University, Ellen’s first job landed her in the technology transfer field of her alma mater, as an assistant. She quickly worked her way up, and for the past few years, she has been fostering a thriving, innovative community as the Director of Innovation Development.

Ellen’s Office of Innovation, Partnership, and Economic Development is the intellectual property resource for faculty, staff, and students at Lakehead. The many hats that Ellen wears also include the overseeing of Ingenuity, the university’s first business incubator, which she played a vital role in establishing.

As well as giving us an insider’s perspective of technology transfer at Lakehead University, Ellen shares the pros and cons of technology transfer in Northern Ontario as a whole. Among other topics, we also discuss her involvement in AUTM, how she and her team are changing how success is measured in technology transfer, and the technology transfer related goals of the Government of Ontario.

In This Episode:

[00:53] An introduction to Ellen MacKay, today’s guest.

[02:11] Ellen explains how she entered the world of technology transfer, and how her role has evolved over the past 12 years.

[03:58] Work that is done by Ellen’s Office of Innovation, Partnership, and Economic Development.

[05:28] The goal of Ingenuity, Lakehead University’s first business incubator, and the role Ellen played in setting it up.

[07:49] Ellen shares what makes Canada’s technology transfer sector unique.

[09:45] Goals that are outlined in a report recently published by the Government of Ontario.

[11:20] Challenges that Lakehead University faces because of their location, and the factors which give them a competitive edge.

[12:32] How Ellen’s office is structured, and the benefits of its small size.

[15:17] Ellen explains how they have shifted their metrics to focus more on impact.

[17:15] Why caring about people is key to success in the technology transfer field.

[18:24] An exciting corporate partnership that Lakehead University has recently entered into.

[19:19] The benefits of corporate partnerships.

[20:49] Some of the greatest success stories to come out of Lakehead University’s technology transfer office.

[23:14] Challenges that Ellen’s office faces.

[25:20] How Ingenuity supports women and indigenous populations.

[27:03] Ellen’s involvement in AUTM, and the positive impact the organization has had on her work.

[29:55] Why Ellen sees a lot of value in credentialing.

[31:28] The three wishes that Ellen has for the field of technology transfer.

Find Ellen:

Technology Transfer in Brazil with Gilberto Medeiros Ribeiro

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 07:00:00 +0000

The field of technology transfer looks different all over the world, and in today’s episode I’m joined by Gilberto Medeiros Ribeiro, the Director of Innovation and Technology Transfer Coordination at UMFG, who is here to talk about the current technology transfer environment in Brazil.

The field is faced with a number of challenges, including a high turnover rate, a federal aversion to funding basic science, and a lack of effective processes. Despite this, Gilberto’s office is responsible for some impressive successes over the past few years, including the development of a vaccine and a mosquito trap, and a compounded annual growth in revenue of 25%.

You can expect to walk away from this episode with a deeper understanding of the dynamic nature of technology transfer in a country that operates very differently to the United States, and for which the future is looking promising!

In This Episode:

[00:53] What Gilberto’s career journey has consisted of up until today.

[03:21] How Brazil’s university system works.

[04:47] Some of the key differences between the technology transfer field in Brazil in comparison to other parts of the world.

[06:20] An example of the challenges with the technology transfer process in Brazil.

[09:13] The Bayh-Dole Act, and how this differs from Brazil's equivalent.

[10:13] Three ways that technology transfer offices are structured in Brazil.

[11:51] Why having private employees to license technology is often better for technology transfer offices.

[12:24] Benefits of licensing university technologies to companies that professors have started up (as a one-time deal).

[14:21] A few of the perks of the Brazilian equivalent of the Bayh-Dole Act.

[15:18] Challenges for cooperation between Brazilian universities and the private sector.

[17:05] Gilberto explains how his office works with start-ups, and what this environment looks like currently, using an example.

[19:30] Macro economic policies which have hindered innovation in Brazil in the past, and how this has changed recently.

[21:12] How Gilberto feels about the future of technology transfer.

[23:01] A positive impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

[23:30] Gilberto’s opinion on IP rights and contracts in technology transfer in university settings.

[24:55] Practices that Gilberto sees as critical to handling IP processes at universities.

[27:35] How Gilberto’s team at UMFG is structured.

[29:10] The unexpected highlight of the past year for Gilberto and his team.

[29:40] Revenue growth that Gilberto’s office is experiencing, and some of their other impressive metrics.

[32:58] Factors that Gilberto believes are vital to the success of technology transfer.

[34:20] How Gilberto’s office deals with foreign companies, and the percentage of patent filings that come from overseas.

[36:29] Corporations that Gilberto’s office has partnered with.

[37:24] Gilberto shares some of the greatest success stories that have come from his office.

[38:13] The main challenges that Gilberto’s office is facing currently.

[39:52] How the federal university programs in Brazil assist unrepresented groups in getting into universities.

[41:04] Diversity in Gilberto’s team, and the long road ahead for diversity in STEM field as a whole.

[43:01] Brazil’s version of AUTM.

[44:11] Gilberto’s view on credentialing, and how this differs from Brazil’s view on it.

[44:46] Three wishes that Gilberto has for the future of technology transfer.

Find Gilberto:

Creating Opportunities Amidst Adversity with Pooja Bhatia

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Despite the fact that Pooja Bhatia’s Innovation and Technology Transfer Office (i-TTO) opened in March 2020, just before COVID-19 lockdowns came into effect in India, her and her all-women team have managed to achieve an incredible amount during the past year and a half.

In today’s episode, Pooja, the Chief Manager of the i-TTO at the Foundation of Innovation and Technology (FIT) in Delhi, joins me for a discussion about how India’s approach to technology transfer has changed over the years, and how her office is contributing to making sure that change is well structure and positive.

You will hear about the technologies that the i-TTO has sponsored, the webinars they have held, and the programs they have created to promote women entrepreneurship. Pooja also shares the two factors that she believes are critical to the success of technology transfer, the value she sees in being part of technology transfer focused organizations, and her three wishes for the i-TTO’s future.

In This Episode:

[00:50] An introduction to Pooja Bhatia, today’s guest.

[02:26] Pooja explains the journey which led to her current position at the Innovation and Technology Transfer Office (i-TTO).

[06:13] How technology transfer has been dealt with in India historically, and the shift that has recently taken place.

[07:31] The purpose of the Foundation of Innovation and Technology (FIT) and the i-TTO.

[10:20] How client acquisition works at the i-TTO.

[11:12] Pooja explains how the i-TTO is structured.

[12:53] The two different sets of metrics that the i-TTO uses to measure their performance.

[15:22] Institutions that the i-TTO is currently working with.

[17:03] How the i-TTO fulfils their mandate to increase capacity building.

[18:30] Pooja shares some details about one of the 65+ webinars that the i-TTO held in 2020, and some of their ideas for future webinars.

[19:57] Differences between technology transfer in India and technology transfer in the USA and Europe.

[22:03] Factors that Pooja believes are key to success in the technology transfer field.

[23:50] Some of the i-TTO’s achievements over the past year and a half.

[26:24] The biggest challenge that the i-TTO is currently being faced with, and the opportunities they have found despite this.

[28:00] Programs that the i-TTO runs which are focused on enhancing diversity.

[30:36] Organizations that Pooja and her team members are involved with, and the value that she sees in being a part of these organizations.

[31:52] Pooja shares her thoughts on the importance of credentialing.

[33:09] Three wishes that Pooja has for the i-TTO.

Find Pooja:

Putting Augusta University on the Technology Transfer Map with Mike Moore

Wed, 06 Oct 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Today’s guest, holder of a PhD in biochemistry, found his way into the technology transfer field through an unusual method; cold writing to technology transfer offices. After working at Northwestern University for 17 years, Mike Moore decided he wanted to expand his scope of experience and he moved to the far lesser-known University of Augusta, where he is currently the Director of the Office of Innovation Commercialization.

In this episode, Mike shares information about Augusta that many of you will be pleasantly surprised to hear, as was he, including the fact that it has the only public medical school in Georgia, one of the largest medical schools in the country, and is the home of a life sciences business development incubator.

Mike’s team is small but mighty, and he is determined to overcome the challenges that come as a result of the size of the institution and turn Augusta into a university that people think of as a leader of innovation. He shares the factors that he believes are vital to success, as well as the hopes he has for the future of his own office, and all technology transfer offices out there!

In This Episode:

[00:53] A rundown of Mike’s educational and professional background.

[01:50] What drew Mike to the field of technology transfer.

[02:34] The unusual approach that landed Mike his first technology transfer job at Northwestern University.

[04:04] Why Mike chose to leave his position at Northwestern and take up a post at Augusta University.

[04:50] Mike shares some of the history of Augusta University, and the role of the Office of Innovation Commercialization which he is the director of.

[06:06] The incubator space at Augusta, and how it was funded.

[07:30] How Mike’s office is structured.

[08:36] Value that Mike sees in working collaboratively.

[09:18] Invention disclosures, patent applications, and licenses coming out of Augusta in a typical year.

[10:43] What Mike sees as the key to the success of innovations.

[12:08] The challenge of corporate partners that Mike is looking forward to taking on at Augusta.

[13:21] Some of the things that Mike would have liked to have done better.

[14:45] Technology Transfer success stories out of Augusta University.

[15:35] Some of the greatest difficulties that Mike is currently facing.

[16:46] How Mike’s office works towards improving levels of traditionally underrepresented groups in the technology transfer field.

[17:24] Global and local organizations that Mike’s office is involved with, and the value that Mike sees in these connections.

[21:25] Mike’s view on credentialing.

[20:36] Hopes that Mike has for the future of Augusta’s Office of Innovation Commercialization.

Find Mike:

Creating Opportunity with Christy Wyskiel

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Christy Wyskiel’s passion for born and bred local business prompted her to leave her job as an institutional investor on Wall Street and focus on helping Baltimore entrepreneurs and inventors thrive. In her estimation, her current role as the Executive Director of Johns Hopkins Technology Ventures (JHTV) is close to the best job in the world!

JHTV acts as a bridge between world-changing inventions being developed in laboratories, and the market, and their breadth of field covers everything from guitars to cancer diagnostics. The three divisions which make up JHTV focus on technology transfer, industry research partnerships, and company acceleration, and in today’s episode Christy shares more details about some of the programs that sit within these sectors.

Johns Hopkins’ three-year rolling average for licensing revenue is more than twice what it was before JHTV was created, which is just one of the many metrics which highlights the success of the program. We discuss the value of such metrics, and how Christy hopes to impact the way technology transfer departments approach them. We also hear about what Christy believes to be the key indicator of success, her thoughts on corporate partnerships, and how JHTV, and Christy in her own personal capacity, are working towards enhancing diversity in technology transfer.

In This Episode:

[00:50] An introduction to today’s guest, Christy Wyskiel.

[03:00] Christy’s circuitous journey of the heart from wall street to the field of technology transfer.

[05:04] Barriers and opportunities that Christy became aware of when working with entrepreneurs.

[07:33] The role of Johns Hopkins Technology Ventures (JHTV), and the wide range of research endeavours that it encompasses.

[08:35] Why Christy loves her job so much.

[09:21] A committee that Christy was a part of, and how they came up with recommendations for the development of an entrepreneurship and start-up ecosystem in Baltimore.

[10:00] What the Fast Forward division of JHTV focuses on, and the success they have seen over the past year.

[11:11] The student hub for entrepreneurship and innovation at JHTV, and other programs which encourage student engagement in this field.

[12:28] Goals of the JHTV Social Innovation Lab and Commercialization Academy.

[14:50] Christy shares how she and her team approach their work, and a metric which highlights how much of a success JHTV has been.

[16:42] Professionals who make up the staff complement at JHTV.

[20:17] The most important measure of the success of technology transfer.

[21:25] Why Christy sees attracting outside funding as a key indicator of success.

[23:21] What Christy would like to see happen with metrics in the field of technology transfer in the future.

[25:57] Some of the valuable resources that JHTV provides, and the key to successful management.

[28:43] How Big Pharma has changed over the years.

[29:51] Where JHTV’s strengths lie, and the areas where they lean on corporate partners.

[32:16] How JHTV approaches their relationships with their corporate partners.

[33:49] A game changing relationship that JHTV has with a non-profit.

[36:20] Some of the very interesting technology that has come out of JHTV.

[39:07] Two major challenges that JHTV is facing.

[41:13] The percentage of venture capital that goes to women and people of color, and the group Christy founded to change this.

[42:01] How JHTV is connecting more seasoned female innovators with younger faculty and students.

[44:53] Organizations that technology transfer professionals at JHTV are involved with.

[45:53] JHTV’s two main goals.

[46:50] Christy’s three wishes for JHTV.

Find Christy:

John Hopkins Technology Ventures

Wilson Sonsini - Katherine Ku

Making Waves in Technology Transfer with Jon Soderstrom

Wed, 22 Sep 2021 07:00:00 +0000

While working as the Program Director of Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Jon Soderstrom received a phone call which would end up altering his career trajectory in a way he couldn’t have imagined. Although Jon’s initial response to the offer to work at Yale was no, after having a meeting with the man who was to become his future boss, he realized that Yale was exactly where he needed to be. Over 25 years, and more than 25 new ventures later, the rest is history.

In today’s episode, Jon and I discuss the important role being fulfilled by Yale’s Office of Cooperative Research (which, until recently, he was the Managing Director of); it is similar to other technology transfer offices but has its own unique edge. When Jon began working in New Haven, the sentiment regarding the field technology transfer in the area was pessimistic, but Jon was committed to changing that, and change it he did. We also delve into Jon’s opinion on the dangers of price control, the importance of patent rights, the brilliance of the Bayh-Dole Act, why diversity is key to success, and his thoughts about the future of technology transfer at Yale.

Jon’s career has brought meaning to his life, and in turn, he has brought meaning, hope, and success to the lives of many others. The field of technology transfer has a lot to thank him for!

In This Episode:

[00:54] A breakdown of the professional background of today’s guest, Jon Soderstrom.

[04:00] Where Jon’s interest in technology transfer originated.

[05:45] How Jon ended up as the program director of Oak Ridge National Laboratory, where he remained for 12 years.

[08:04] Jon’s initial response when he was recruited for a position at Yale.

[10:25] The outcome of the first conversation that Jon had with the man who ended up being his boss.

[12:35] How the first in person meeting Jon and his soon-to-be-boss went.

[14:56] What made Jon change his mind about the position at Yale that he had been offered.

[17:16] Jon explains how Yale’s Office of Cooperative Research (OCR) is similar to other technology transfer offices and how it is different.

[18:40] One of the metrics of merit for academics which impacts their professional standing in the community.

[20:18] The sentiment around technology transfer at the time when Jon started working at Yale, and his commitment to change that.

[22:46] Partnerships that were instrumental to the success of the OCR.

[23:40] The fundraising campaign that the OCR is currently in the midst of.

[24:19] Why Jon has stepped down as Managing Director of the OCR, and what his hopes are for its future.

[26:16] Misconceptions about who is responsible for funding innovations.

[29:04] Jon shares his opinion on the harm caused by price controls.

[32:34] Why anything that weakens patent rights is a huge mistake.

[33:29] What COVID-19 has taught us about the importance of manufacturing.

[35:14] Learnings from looking at the technology transfer environment pre and post the introduction of the Bayh-Dole Act.

[38:10] Factors academic institutions need to take into consideration when entering into relationships with corporate partners.

[40:48] Jon’s wealth of experience in the field of patent litigation.

[43:54] The importance of the Bayh-Dole Coalition, which Jon is a member of, and his appreciation for Joe Allen.

[46:21] Gender equality as a cornerstone of the technology transfer profession.

[47:17] Why increasing diversity should be a key goal of the technology transfer field.

[49:08] Meaning that Jon’s career has brought to his life, and the meaning he has been able to bring to others’ lives as a result.

Find Jon:

Angel Investing and Fund Creation with Teri Willey

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Today’s guest is meant to be winding down towards retirement, but she’s too enamored with her work to let go just yet. Teri Willey’s colorful career has taken her from the chemical industry to the world of angel investing and fund creation, from the US to the UK and back again. She is currently the managing director of Indiana University (IU) Ventures which assists students, faculty, staff, and alums advance high potential new inventions through direct investment, co-investment, angel investment and funds.

Teri’s first technology transfer job was at Northwestern University, and once she learned about the importance of patents from an influential mentor, she never looked back. She has held various executive and non-executive roles, sat on numerous boards, been involved in the creation and reorganization of university technology transfer programs, launched early-stage funds that invest in science-based ventures, and driven investment towards underrepresented founders.

In today’s episode you’ll get a glimpse into Teri’s journey in the world of technology transfer, and the inner workings of IU Ventures, including how they have reached a point where over 50% of their funds’ investments go towards women or minority led companies!

In This Episode:

[00:53] An introduction to today’s guest, Teri Willey.

[03:43] Where Teri started her career.

[04:18] Why patents are important, and how this learning informed Teri’s career trajectory.

[05:01] The first technology transfer position that Teri held, and what her career has consisted of since then.

[06:00] Teri explains what drove her to join IU Ventures, and the work that is being done by this non-profit affiliate of Indiana University.

[07:54] Various funds and programs that Teri is involved with.

[09:25] How IU Ventures is structured.

[11:49] Teri’s experience as the founding chief executive of Cambridge Enterprise LTD.

[14:47] Subtle differences that Teri noticed between angel investing and fund creation in the US and the UK.

[16:44] How the funds that Teri in involved with have fared during the COVID-19 pandemic.

[18:38] What the Bayh-Dole Coalition is, Teri’s involvement with it, and her opinion on the attempts which have been made to alter the Bayh-Dole Act.

[21:14] Equity, diversity, and inclusion in technology transfer historically, and the approach that Teri thinks needs to be taken in this regard now and in the future.

[22:28] How and why IU Ventures has over 50% of their funds’ investments go towards women or minority led companies.

[24:51] Growth that AUTM has experienced over the years, and why this organization is so important.

[26:25] What Teri is most proud of, and most grateful for.

Find Teri:

Nine Points to Consider in Licensing University Technology with Kathy Ku

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Throughout her amazing career, today’s guest has had a huge impact on the Tech Transfer community and continues to do so today. Kathy Ku has been working in Tech Transfer since the 1980s and in this episode she shares her unique journey describing her career moves as “happenstance.”

Kathy is the Chief Licensing Advisor in the Palo Alto office of Wilson Sonsini. She is also a member of the technology transactions and the patents and innovations practice groups. She is an internationally recognized leader in the field of Technology Transfer. She served as the Executive Director of Stanford University’s Office of Technology Licensing for 27 years. During that period OTL licensed hundreds of new technologies, bringing in $1.8 billion, most of which went back to support research and education at Stanford. Kathy also spearheaded the development and implementation of nine principles related to university technology licensing. The principles are set forth in a document entitled “In the Public Interest: Nine Points to Consider in Licensing University Technology.” More than 120 institutions have adopted the principles since they were published in 2007.

Those principles are discussed in this episode to help provide understanding of what Tech Transfer should look like and what is important to consider. Kathy also shares her experience with the Bayh-Dole Coalition and her dedication to AUTM.

In This Episode:

[02:47] - Kathy shares her happenstance journey to working in Tech Transfer after an eclectic career.

[04:21] - She is a chemical engineer by education but also is very familiar with patents.

[06:56] - Kathy retired in 2018 with plans to travel but explains her change in plans after being offered a position she couldn’t refuse.

[08:21] - Shifting from Stanford to a law firm, Kathy shares how the transition has been for her.

[10:04] - Kathy describes the changes in Tech Transfer and how people can now aspire to work in Tech Transfer as a career.

[13:38] - Kathy and a team put together a “pledge of allegiance” of nine points to follow for Tech Transfer offices.

[14:05] - The first principle is that universities should reserve the right to practice licensed inventions and allow other non-profit organizations to use them as well.

[14:44] - The second principle is to structure licenses to encourage development.

[15:27] - The third principle is to minimize the licensing of future improvements.

[16:52] - Faculty start-ups can be more challenging to manage.

[17:23] - Another principle is to have broad access to research tools.

[18:29] - Be sure that universities are complying with export regulations.

[18:58] - The next principle is to be mindful of the implications of working with patent aggregators.

[20:01] - The ninth point is for universities to be mindful of unmet needs.

[21:19] - The success of licensing inventions depends on a lot of factors outside of the control of the licensing office.

[22:11] - Kathy believes that Tech Transfer should not just be about the money.

[23:06] - Kathy describes her work with the Bayh-Dole Coalition.

[24:30] - What happens when you don’t have patent exclusivity?

[25:51] - Kathy addresses President Biden’s recent executive order.

[27:43] - There are many things that Tech Transfer offices are doing right regarding equal representation. But women are less likely than men to be involved in startups.

[29:51] - Kathy was a part of AUTM from the beginning and shares her experience as president and the impact it has had.

[31:34] - AUTM meetings are great because all Tech Transfer offices deal with the same problems. Rather than competing, it is all about working together.

[32:40] - Kathy shares her pride for her career and the impact of Tech Transfer.

Find Kathy:

Bayh-Dole Coalition

Innovation Impact Rankings with Cullum Clark and Christian Blackwell

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Today I am joined by two guests; Cullum Clark and Christian Blackwell. Cullum is the Director of the Bush Institute SMU-Economic Growth Initiative and Christian is the Managing Partner at Opus Faveo Innovation Development, and their combination of skills and experience is a force to be reckoned with!

The purpose of today’s episode is to unpack the report which was produced by Cullum, Christian, and a number of other colleagues of theirs (who are all acknowledged by name towards the end) titled the Innovation Impact of US Universities: Ranking and Policy Conclusions. The concept of innovation impact centres around the success of higher education institutions in having their research findings be brought to life in the world outside the walls of academia.

After explaining the value of this kind of measure, as well as how the data was collected, Cullum and Christian do a deep dive into the factors which are responsible for determining levels of impact innovation productivity (including one which has never before been cited in a report before), the universities which ranked the highest in their respective categories (categories were based on the size of the institution), and recommendations for leaders in all sectors who are interested in enhancing impact innovation (something that everyone should be interested in!).

In This Episode:

[00:50] An introduction to today’s two guests, and their educational and professional backgrounds.

[03:22] Cullum and Christian explain the focus of the work being done by the George W. Bush Institute and Opus Faveo.

[05:18] Where the idea of the importance of innovation impact originated. .

[09:16] Aims of the collaboration between Opus Faveo and the Bush Institute (which resulted in The Innovation Impact of US Universities: Rankings and Policy Conclusions paper).

[11:00] What research shows about the nature of spill overs from higher education institutions to the business sector.

[13:13] An explanation of the concept of innovation impact, and the process that was developed to measure outputs.

[16:06] Two quantifiable variables of innovation impact.

[18:01] As cliché as innovation impact sounds, it is actually very meaningful.

[18:55] Universities which were included in the innovation impact ranking done by the Bush Institute and Opus Faveo.

[20:09] Problems with the way innovation impact has been measured in the past, and why this method was better (although not perfect).

[22:34] A limitation of the data used in the study.

[23:40] Fear that some Tech Transfer offices have around looking at rankings, and why this fear is unfounded.

[24:48] Scrutiny that a lot of higher education institutions are currently under, and how measuring innovation impact can help to relieve them of this.

[26:25] What can be learned from looking at the licensing revenues coming into institutions compared to the amount they are spending on research.

[27:42] Universities which came out top of the rankings.

[28:45] The number of high-ranking universities that are private.

[29:33] How the innovation impact productivity rankings were calculated.

[30:30] Results of the innovation impact productivity rankings (including some that were very surprising).

[32:36] Major differences that exist between institutions in terms of innovation impact productivity, and why this finding excites Cullum and Christian.

[35:12] Value of basic versus applied research

[38:12] Case studies that were done on the top institutions in each category, and an overview of the learnings from these.

[41:55] Christian shares a story of a university which changed a city.

[43:47] How leaders should be thinking about innovation impact.

[44:07] Cullum shares the top 10 rankings in the small and medium size categories.

[45:38] Top ranking medical and pure research institutions.

[46:40] The two goals of the rankings report.

[47:16] How the size of an institution relates to innovation impact productivity.

[48:31] Ways that a university’s geographical position impacts innovation impact productivity.

[49:12] The correlation between foreign born/immigrant populations and innovation impact productivity.

[51:10] Surprising and unsurprising findings about how the technology transfer office of a university affects its innovation impact productivity ranking.

[53:20] Why the findings about the contribution of technology transfer offices to innovation impact productivity make Christian feel optimistic.

[54:51] The negative correlation between innovation impact productivity and research funded by industries.

[57:01] Possible explanations for the negative correlation between innovation impact productivity and research funded by industries.

[01:00:33] Work that needs to be done to align university and industry cultures.

[01:01:11] Examples which highlight the mismatch between industry and university cultures.

[01:04:30] What anecdotal evidence shows about younger faculty members at universities.

[01:05:36] How innovation impact plays a role in the competition amongst universities for students.

[01:06:00] The role of innovation impact in attracting philanthropists.

[01:07:20] Recommendations for universities looking to improve their innovation impact productivity rankings.

[01:09:33] Problems with the programmatic approach adopted by many universities.

[01:10:53] An argument to increase public sector and philanthropic funding for high quality research.

[01:13:25] Something that funders of institutions should take into account.

[01:14:07] What places (towns, cities etc.) should be doing to improve innovation impact.

[01:17:11] The circular nature of the previously mentioned factors.

[01:18:26] What the people making resource allocation decisions need to realize about technology transfer offices.

[01:19:12] Discoveries that Cullum and Christian have made about the heads of technology transfer offices.

[01:21:42] Findings that came out of the quartile analysis that was done for this report.

[01:23:00] Acknowledgments of the colleagues who worked with Cullum and Christian on the report.

[01:24:40] The global potential of the findings from this study.

Find Cullum:

Find Christian:

The Privilege of Working in Technology Transfer with Dr. Alison Campbell, Director of KTI

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Even before she expresses it outwardly, it is clear that Alison Campbell is deeply passionate about technology transfer and that working in this field brings her a lot of joy. In today’s episode I have the pleasure of speaking to a woman who was one of the first technology transfer managers at the Medical Research Council and is currently the Director of Knowledge Transfer Ireland (KTI).

KTI is national office which aims to make it easier for companies to connect and engage with publicly funded research, and many countries are now looking to replicate the model which was created by Alison and her team.

Alison’s outlook on life involves a combination of being open to serendipity and making one’s own luck. This refreshing perspective, combined with her wide range of experience, makes for a rich and inspirational discussion. Alison and I discuss some of the projects she has worked on in university settings, as a consultant, as part of the Expert Group appointed by the European Commission Joint Research Centre, as chair of the board for a number of organizations, and of course, at KTI. She also shares what she believes to be the keys to success, and some of the reasons she feels so privileged to work in the technology transfer industry.

In This Episode:

[03:11] Alison explains how she ended up as one of the first managers of technology transfer at the Medical Research Council, and some of the work she did there.

[05:44] How Alison feels about her experience working at a university and as a consultant.

[06:47] What drove Alison to pursue the position she currently holds at Knowledge Transfer Ireland (KTI).

[08:23] Some of the reasons that Alison feels so privileged to have been able to work in the technology transfer field.

[11:11] Alison explains why KTI exists, and how this national office fulfils its role.

[13:06] Resources which can be found on the KTI website, and how these make it easier for companies to collaborate with universities.

[17:20] The evolution of research commercialization in Ireland.

[19:02] One of the recommendations that came out of 2-years’ worth of working group meetings about technology transfer in Ireland.

[20:19] Why Alison shaped KTI the way she did, and how she knows she did the right thing.

[21:27] How Alison’s office is currently structured and the main pillars of work which she and her team focus on.

[23:25] The survey which Alison’s team produces every year, and the reason they do this.

[25:57] Tasks that Alison was involved in as a member of the Expert Group appointed by the European Commission Joint Research Centre in 2019 and 2020.

[27:31] Learnings that arose from the research done by the Expert Group.

[29:32] Examples of the key knowledge transfer channels which the Expert Group came up with.

[31:41] Environments where Alison has seen the greatest level of compliance in terms of collection of data and metrics.

[32:35] Answers you can expect from a publication that will be out by the end of the year.

[33:55] Elements that Alison believes form the foundation for success in technology transfer.

[36:42] Types of programs in Ireland which focus on enhancing equity, diversity, and inclusion.

[39:47] How Alison became chair of the AUTM board, and her experience in this position.

[42:08] What Alison’s time as chair of the board of ATTP involved.

[43:54] Alison shares her what she worked on while she was chair of the PraxisAuril board.

[46:29] Gratitude that Alison feels for her journey in the technology transfer field.

[47:20] A major achievement that Alison is extremely proud of.

Find Alison:

Knowledge Transfer Ireland Website

Technology Transfer with Senior Technology Licensing Office, Jeff Purnell

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Today’s guest, Jeff Purnell, has an engineering degree, a PhD in chemistry, and is currently working as a senior technology licensing officer in the Office of Technology Transfer at the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB). Prior to this, Jeff held various R&D and product development roles in major companies.

The goal of Jeff’s department, which is one of three situated in UMB’s Office of Research and Development, is to commercialize university IP so that it can benefit society. In this episode, Jeff gives some examples of the innovations that he and his team have been instrumental in bringing to the public, as well as the exciting new technology that he recently licensed and has high hopes for.

Among other topics, our conversation covers some of the most important learnings Jeff has had through his experience at UMB, the biggest challenges he has faced, and what he believes to be the most critical determinant of success in the field of technology transfer.

In This Episode:

[02:23] Jeff shares the major aspects of his postgraduate journey and the coincidence which led him to his current role at University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB).

[04:12] The three departments which make up the Office of Research and Development at UMB.

[04:38] Groups within the Office of Technology Transfer, where Jeff works, and the goals of this department.

[05:28] Jeff shares some background information on the university system of Maryland, and explains why the Centre for Maryland Advanced Ventures (CMAV) was created.

[07:39] Supporting functions of the CMAV initiative.

[09:04] The structure of the Office of Technology Transfer at UMB.

[11:03] Why Jeff believes that relationships are the key to success in the field of technology transfer.

[12:01] Jeff sheds light on the importance of UMB’s corporate partnerships.

[13:44] What Jeff has learned from the time he has spent working in technology transfer at UMB.

[15:00] Examples of some of the biggest successes that Jeff’s office has achieved.

[16:06] An exciting technology that Jeff recently licensed.

[17:11] Challenges that Jeff experiences in his line of work.

[19:27] The initiatives that UMB is involved in which focus on underrepresented groups in technology transfer.

[20:18] Why Jeff thinks organizations like AUTM are so valuable, and his opinion on credentialing.

[21:35] Jeff’s big dreams for the future.

Find Jeff:

Technology Transfer with Cameron P. Smith of the Texas Tech University System

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Our guest today is the commercialization director of the Office of Research commercialization in the Texas Tech University System (TTUS). In order for inventions to reach the people who need them, they need to be patented, and Cameron’s role is to bridge the gap between industry and academia by executing commercialization agreements to bring inventions to market.

In today’s episode, Cameron explains how the TTUS innovation ecosystem is structured and how the innovation cycle works, from when the researcher receives a grant to the point where the invention is available to the public. Cameron also shares the impressive amount of growth that TTUS has experienced over the past 10 years in terms of various technology transfer metrics.

TTUS has a variety of departments and a wide range of inventions being developed within them; from drag reduction technologies to rapid COVID tests to beef jerky, all of which (and more) you will hear about today. In our conversation we also cover what Cameron believes to be the key element to success, positive and negative impacts of the pandemic, and Cameron’s dreams for the future of the technology transfer field.

In This Episode:

[03:22] Cameron shares the journey that led him to the Texas Tech University System (TTUS).

[04:30] An explanation of the four institutions which make up TTUS.

[05:47] Three components that the TTUS innovation ecosystem consists of, and what each component focuses on.

[08:58] The commercialization road map that Cameron and his team have recently developed, and where you can access it.

[09:31] Cameron explains how the innovation cycle works at TTUS.

[11:35] How licensing agreements have shifted over the past few years.

[13:02] Positive and negative impacts of the shift to virtual that has occurred as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

[14:09] Growth that TTUS has experienced over the past 10 years in terms of invention disclosures, license agreements, and revenue received.

[15:10] Elements of TTUS that make it different to other departments of its kind.

[15:55] Why Cameron thinks communication is the key to success in the technology transfer field.

[17:14] Examples of the corporate partners that TTUS has, and how they manage these relationships.

[20:08] Cameron reiterates the importance of communication.

[21:30] Some of the exciting technologies being developed at TTUS.

[25:42] The surprising innovation that is TTUS’s biggest success.

[27:15] Two of the biggest challenges that Cameron faces in his line of work.

[28:55] How TTUS is working to improve representation of underrepresented groups.

[29:35] Associations that add value to Cameron and his team.

[30:45] Cameron’s view on credentialing, and his involvement with the system.

[31:38] The three dreams that Cameron has for the future of the technology transfer field.

Find Cameron:

Technology Transfer with Lisa Mueller, Host of Tech Transfer IP

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 07:00:00 +0000

This episode is a little different as I, Lisa Mueller, host of the Tech Transfer IP podcast, take the interviewee hotseat for a change! In today’s show, you’ll hear a brief rundown of my professional background, and how I ended up in the field of patent law after focusing my studies on environmental law. However, the main focus of this discussion is the podcast itself.

When I first decided to create a podcast, I had no idea of the amount of work that it would require. After unsuccessfully trying to teach myself everything through reading books and watching YouTube tutorials, I invested in a coach. I wouldn’t be here today, at episode number 62, if it wasn’t for this coach, the editors, artists, and of course the guests, who have all contributed to making Tech Transfer IP the knowledge sharing space that it is.

After today you’ll have a very clear understanding of the production side of this podcast, my plans for its future, and some of the episodes which are most memorable to me. I love creating Tech Transfer IP, and I hope you’ll continue with me on this journey for years to come!

In This Episode:

[01:10] A rundown of my professional background, and the work I am currently doing.

[04:00] My original career plan, and how I ended up in the patent law sector.

[05:43] Some of the elements that I love most about patent law.

[07:25] Why I started my two blogs, Bric Wall and Brics and Beyond.

[08:24] The difference between a prior art search and a freedom to operate search.

[10:32] I share what inspired me to create the Tech Transfer IP podcast.

[12:15] Challenges that I experienced when she first tried to start the podcast, and the person who really helped me get going.

[15:40] The first two interviews that I did for the podcast.

[18:11] I explain the process I go through to create a podcast episode.

[19:22] Research that I do before I formulate my interview questions.

[20:38] Professional editing that the podcast goes through before it airs, and the person who does this for me.

[21:26] A run through of every step in the process of creating a podcast episode, and the length of time, on average, that this takes.

[24:35] Difficulties that I experienced with trying to find guests at first, and how this has become easier over time.

[26:20] Things I’ve discovered through guest interviews which have really impressed me.

[27:13] An episode which was particularly memorable for me.

[28:37] Plans I have for future interviews.

[29:35] Some episodes I would recommend to new listeners.

[32:21] What I am hoping the AUTM National Meeting in 2022 is going to look like.

[33:55] The love I have for the podcast, and how I structure my time so that I can keep doing it.

Find Lisa:

Technology Transfer via the Bayh-Dole Act

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 07:00:00 +0000

In some ways, the Bayh-Dole Act saved the United States, and our guest on today’s show played a key role in its adoption. Joe Allen was part of the US Senate Judiciary Committee for Birch Bayh, the senator whose name makes up one part of the Act which was deemed one of the most inspired pieces of legislation that America had seen in half a century.

The intention of the Act was to foster R&D partnerships between universities and US industry in order to put an end to the government’s practice of spending billions of dollars on research and then never commercializing it. In today’s episode, Joe shares why the Act was so transformative, as well as the tumultuous journey he and his team went on to get it passed, which, looking back, seems like a miracle.

Joe’s impressive career doesn’t end there, and you will also hear about what he achieved in his roles as Executive Director of Intellectual Property Owners Inc., the Director of the Office of Technology Commercialization, the Vice President of the NTCC, the co-founder of the Entrepreneurial Technology Apprentice Program, and now as the owner of Joseph Allen and Associates and Executive Director of the Bayh-Dole Coalition.

In This Episode:

[00:51] A rundown of the colorful professional life of today’s guest, Joe Allen.

[03:36] The fortuitous event which led Joe to be part of the US Senate Judiciary Committee for Birch Bayh.

[05:51] Where the idea of the Bayh-Dole Act originated, and Joe’s role in the process.

[07:00] The amount of R&D that was government funded at the time the Bayh-Dole Act came into place, and how that has changed since the passing of the Act.

[08:08] Why Senator Bayh and Senator Dole were an unusual combination, and why this didn’t matter.

[09:36] The crisis that the Bayh-Dole Act saved the United States from.

[11:21] Challenges that Joe and his team experienced in getting the bill passed.

[13:23] What the invention landscape looked like pre the Bayh-Dole Act.

[16:06] The rocky road to adoption of Bayh-Dole Act.

[18:05] Joe shares what happened in the final moments of getting the Bayh-Dole Act passed.

[23:00] Two questions that Joe was asked just before the bill was cleared.

[24:16] How Joe became involved with the IPO, and the work that he did there.

[26:34] Why bureaucrats attacked the Bayh-Dole Act, and the office Joe ran that served to uphold it.

[28:17] Benefits of the Federal Technology Transfer Act, which Joe was instrumental in the creation of.

[31:56] Joe’s introduction to the National Technology Transfer Centre (NTCC), and why he decided to take the opportunity to work there.

[32:53] Goals of the NTTC, awards they won, and the training program that they ran.

[35:03] Intentions of the Bayh-Dole Coalition that Joe co-founded.

[37:18] An explanation of an executive order recently issued by Joe Biden.

[38:49] Concerns that Congress had about the Bayh-Dole Act, and the provision which was put in place as a result.

[40:22] The paper that came out 20 years after the Bayh-Dole Act was passed, and the concern that it caused.

[42:49] A regulation that Congress proposed around march in rights relating to the Bayh-Dole Act.

[43:26] How Biden’s executive order potentially threatens the Bayh-Dole Act.

[44:40] The number of start-up companies that are continuously being founded because of the Bayh-Dole Act.

[45:24] Why Joe is worried about the future of the Bayh-Dole Act.

[46:36] The experience that made Joe aware of the lack of diversity in the technology transfer field.

[48:22] Joe’s involvement in the Entrepreneurial Technology Apprentice Program (ETAP), which aimed to expose children from underrepresented groups to technology transfer.

[50:09] Success of the ETAP pilot program.

[51:31] The achievement that Joe is most proud of.

Find Joe:

The Bayh-Dole Coalition

Technology Transfer at The Office of Corporate Partnership and Knowledge

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 07:00:00 +0000

After working in America for 20 years, Dublin born Declan Weldon returned to his alma mater, Trinity College, as the Deputy Director for Research and Innovation and the head of the Office of Corporate Partnership and Knowledge. Trinity has one of the largest hubs of R&D accessible infrastructure in Ireland, is responsible for 600 industry engagements, and for the past 6 years, Trinity College graduates have been ranked number one in Europe for entrepreneurial performance.

The focus of Declan’s office, which is split into three different components, is to promote Trinity as a partner of choice for industry and business, support access to IP, and provide knowledge-based services to companies. Declan also explains how they are broadening innovation indicators, keeping companies out of the valley of death, and improving representation in the field.

As you will hear more about today, Trinity is responsible for some major innovations, including IONA technologies and the discovery of the importance of folic acid in pregnancy. We also discuss the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, one of the most important partnerships that Trinity has formed, and Declan’s hopes for the future.

In This Episode:

[00:50] An introduction to Declan Weldon, today’s guest on the show.

[01:59] Declan’s journey from Trinity College student to deputy director of Trinity Research and Innovation.

[03:29] A brief explanation of the work being done by the Office of Corporate Partnerships, which Declan is the head of.

[04:48] Factors that make Trinity an extremely attractive partner for industry to work with.

[07:22] How Enterprise Ireland, a government agency, supports the growth of Irish businesses.

[09:24] The goal of the University Bridge Fund, which was created in part by Trinity.

[12:30] How the knowledge transfer team in Declan’s office is structured.

[15:00] People who make up the industry and academic consultancy teams in Declan’s office, and what they focus on.

[16:50] How Declan’s office continually reinvents itself and improves its services, and why this is so important.

[20:06] The number of IDF’s, patents, commercial agreements, licenses, and spin outs that have come through Declan’s office over the past 5 years.

[21:19] Declan explains why his office focuses more on quality than quantity, and what they use as quality markers.

[23:29] An example of a company that Declan’s office has been working with, which highlights why quality is a more meaningful measure.

[25:00] Internal and external elements that are key to managing innovations to give them the greatest opportunity for success.

[27:00] The wide variety of corporate relationships that Trinity has formulated, and some detail about one of the most important of all.

[29:36] Philanthropy and alumni engagement at Trinity, and how the European and American environments differ in this regard.

[31:55] Ranking of the entrepreneurial performance of Trinity graduates in the knowledge transfer field.

[32:36] Some of the major innovations that have come out of Trinity.

[35:30] Impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the work being done by Trinity.

[37:14] How Declan and his team are working towards becoming more relevant to a wider audience, and the challenges associated with this.

[38:20] Some of the reasons for the under-representation of certain demographic groups in the innovation sector, and action that Trinity is taking to change this.

[40:45] The importance of having women in decision making positions.

[43:00] Organizations that Trinity is involved with, and encouragement from Declan for everyone to play an active role in the organizations they are a part of.

[44:40] Declan’s thoughts on why credentialing makes a positive difference to the field.

[46:24] The vision that Declan has for the future of his office.

Find Declan:

Learning Tech Transfer from the LifeArc AUTM Technology Transfer Fellows Program

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Many PhD recipients spend their careers in academia, but today’s guest, Dr. Isabel Ramos, decided that she wanted to apply her knowledge in the real world. Isabel’s current role is innovation manager at Siemens Healthineers, where she and her team work alongside universities and other partners to create technologies related to digital health.

In today’s episode, Isabel explains what she loves about her work, and the journey she took to reach the point she is now at in her career. A major part of this journey was her participation in the LifeArc AUTM Technology Transfer Fellows Program; the lessons she learned, and the lasting friendships she formed have played an influential role in determining her career trajectory. This is what the bulk of our discussion today consists of.

We end today’s episode with some valuable words of advice from Isabel from anyone who is considering a career in the technology transfer field.

In This Episode:

[00:48] Welcoming today’s guest, Dr. Isabel Ramos.

[02:04] Isabel shares her educational and professional background, leading up to her current position at Siemens Healthineers.

[04:27] Research that is being done by Imperial Innovations, and why Isabel chose to work here.

[06:06] How Isabel learned about the LifeArc Technology Transfer Fellows Programme, and how the application and selection processes work.

[07:39] A US based technology transfer program that Isabel is aware of.

[08:15] Benefits that LifeArc Technology Transfer fellows are entitled to.

[10:13] Isabel shares some of the experiences she had while she was part of the LifeArc Fellows Programme.

[13:04] Why one of the requirements for entry into the LifeArc Fellows Programme is that one has less than 9 months of experience in the technology transfer field.

[14:58] The relationship that Isabel maintains with her mentor, and how he helped her while she was part of the Fellows Programme.

[17:04] Differences between the way business in conducted in Europe and the US.

[18:55] Conferences that Isabel has particularly enjoyed.

[19:38] Valuable, lasting friendships that Isabel formed during the Fellows Programme.

[22:01] Why Isabel is not registered on the RTTP, though she knows that many people do benefit from it.

[23:20] Advice from Isabel for anyone who wants to enter the technology transfer sector.

Find Isabel:

Tech Transfer at LifeArc

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Today’s guest is Dr. Anji Miller; a senior business manager in the technology transfer division at LifeArc, a self-funded medical research charity which has a 25 year legacy of collaborating with scientists in order to transform medical innovations into benefits for patients. Her role focuses on the evaluation and translation of academic derived science.

Anji’s had had a lifelong love for science, and has three degrees in the field, as well as a Masters in the management of intellectual property. Her expertise, combined with her passion for promoting equality, diversity and inclusion in the technology transfer sector, make her a powerful force.

Alongside her role as business manager, Anji also leads the LifeArc Autumn Technology Transfer Fellowship Program, and is the co-founder of GEDITT, both of which you will learn more about in this episode.

In our conversation today we also cover why it is so important that technology transfer professionals ensure that they are keeping their skills and their credentials up to date, and the factors that Anji believes are key to the success of innovative technology projects. Anji also shares her three wishes which, if realized, would not only improve the technology transfer sector, but would make the whole world a better place!

In This Episode:

[00:50] An introduction to today’s guest, Dr. Anji Miller, and the work she does.

[03:03] Anji explains her journey into the technology transfer field.

[05:06] Challenges that Anji has experienced due to working in technology transfer field.

[05:50] How Anji acts as a role model for young people aspiring to be in the science field.

[07:49] An explanation of what LifeArc, the charity that Anji works for, does.

[08:57] What the LifeArc Autumn Technology Transfer Fellowship entails, and the success rate of people finding jobs after the program.

[11:00] The gene therapy hubs that are being developed, and the benefits that these will bring about.

[11:56] Funding schemes that are offered by LifeArc.

[13:11] Factors that Anji thinks are most important for ensuring success of innovative technology projects.

[14:18] Importance of the relationships that LifeArc has with corporates.

[15:55] Humanized antibody products that LifeArc has helped bring to market.

[17:14] Two of the main challenges that LifeArc experiences.

[18:20] Equality, diversity and inclusion in the UK technology transfer sector.

[20:00] How GEDITT is addressing the lack of diversity in the technology transfer field.

[20:38] Anji’s opinion on the importance of credentialing.

[23:11] Big dreams that Anji has for the future of her field.

Find Anji:

Tech Transfer at The Polsky Center at The University of Chicago

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Hello and welcome to another episode of Tech Transfer IP. Today I am pleased to speak with Bill Payne, the Executive Director of Science and Technology at the Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the University of Chicago. Bill leads the technology commercialization, Polsky Science Ventures, and industry relations team working to bring groundbreaking faculty research to the market.

Bill is also a startup veteran, having founded and built a company that developed a mobile advertising and sponsorship service that was integrated into AT&T and Verizon’s networks and approved for use.

Listen as Bill talks about his journey to the Polsky Center and what it’s all about. He also explains the Polsky Exchange, the funding opportunities available to students, faculty, staff, and alumni-led startups. Bill shares how his office is structured and how many invention disclosures, patent filings, revenue-generating agreements, royalty income, and other metrics his office had last year.

Bill discusses the relationship they have with their corporate partners and the philanthropic organizations they are involved with. Bill speaks about his office’s biggest success stories, biggest challenges, and the programs they have to help encourage and assist women and other traditionally underrepresented inventors and entrepreneurs.

If Bill had three wishes, he would like the University of Chicago to continue to scale up their operations in tech transfer, he would want to create a new set of unicorn companies to show everyone the opportunities they have, and he wants to make his organization a fun place to work.

In This Episode:

[02:41] Welcome to the show, Bill!

[02:57] Bill shares his background and journey to the Polsky Center at the University of Chicago.

[08:34] Can you tell us a little more about the Polsky Center?

[10:18] Bill discusses how the Polsky Center helps to promote a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship at the University of Chicago.

[12:11] Bill talks about the Polsky Exchange and what it is.

[13:28] Can you tell us about the funding opportunities available to students, faculty, staff, and alumni-led startup companies at the University of Chicago?

[16:12] Bill about how his office is structured.

[19:20] Bill discusses how many invention disclosures, patent filings, revenue-generating agreements, royalty income, and other metrics his office had last year.

[23:18] He believes that invention disclosures are most important in managing innovations to have the greatest opportunity for success.

[25:14] Can you give us examples of the relationships your office has with corporate partners?

[27:47] Having corporate partners has led to them having more deals.

[28:54] Bill says they have philanthropic organizations like the George Schultz Innovation Fund.

[30:08] Bill shares some of the Polsky Center’s biggest success stories regarding successful technologies and startups.

[31:25] He talks about a couple of this office’s biggest challenges.

[34:50] Does the Polsky Center have any programs to help encourage and assist women and other traditionally underrepresented inventors and entrepreneurs?

[37:20] Bill’s office participates in AUTM and shares the value he believes they bring.

[39:21] What is your view on credentialing? Do you think it makes a difference?

[41:08] He would like the University of Chicago to continue to scale up their operations in tech transfer, create a new set of unicorn companies to show everyone the opportunities out there, and he wants to make his organization a fun place to work.

[43:40] Thank you for being on the show!

Find Bill:

Prosecuting Patent Applications with Elaine Spector

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Welcome to another episode of Tech Transfer IP. Today I am pleased to speak with Elaine Spector. Elaine is a patent attorney with Harrity & Harrity with over twenty year's experience in intellectual property law. Elaine's current practice consists primarily of prosecuting patent applications with a focus on electromechanical technologies.

Before joining Harrity & Harrity, Elaine worked in private practice for over fifteen years handling various intellectual property matters, including patent application drafting and prosecution, trademark prosecution and enforcement and litigating complex patent cases in federal courts. Her extensive litigation experience provides her with a unique perspective in prosecuting patent applications.

Listen as Elaine shares some key differences between working in a University Tech Transfer office and working in a law firm. She also talks about the Rooney Rule and how Hannity has improved it by making it Rooney Rule 2.0, and how the Rooney Rule is different from the Mansfield Rule.

Elaine discusses her company's rigorous hiring process to remove bias, the factors that contribute to the problem of having a small amount of diverse individuals in the legal profession, and the programs her office has launched to help bring more women into her firm, like the Annual Women's Patent Law Workshop and the Minority Firm Incubator Program to name a few.

Elaine shares some suggestions for small firms that might struggle to develop diversity and inclusion procedures, standards, and programs. She says that reaching out is one action step patent professionals can take to improve diversity for the Patent Bar.

In This Episode:

[02:26] Welcome to the show, Elaine!

[02:48] Elaine shares her career journey from a University Tech Transfer office to a law firm.

[06:16] She worked at John Hopkins Technology Transfer, which later changed its name to Tech Ventures.

[06:46] What are some of the key differences between working in a University Tech Transfer office and working in a law firm?

[09:18] Elaine discusses the Rooney Rule 2.0 and how Harrity takes the rule even further.

[10:28] How is the Rooney Rule different from the Mansfield Rule?

[12:39] Elaine doesn't believe that the "Heavy Stick" approach suggested by some corporations will be effective in helping meet diversity requirements.

[15:01] Elaine speaks about her company's rigorous hiring process and how it removes the likelihood of bias.

[17:20] Can you tell us about the factors contributing to the problem of not enough diverse individuals in the legal profession?

[20:01] Elaine discusses Harrity’s office's Annual Women's Patent Law Workshop.

[21:46] Elaine discusses another program Harrity has recently developed which is training women and helping them pass the writing part of their application process.

[22:31] Elaine shares some other programs her firm has that focus on diversity and inclusion.

[24:28] Elaine speaks about the Minority Firm Incubator Program they are launching.

[27:39] Harrity has launched a diversity channel this year with a weekly vlog.

[28:58] How does your diversity committee handle these programs?

[31:01] Elaine shares some suggestions for small firms that might struggle to develop diversity and inclusion procedures, standards, and programs.

[33:04] Elaine believes the changes proposed by USPTO will help with gender diversity, and she shares some other degrees that should be included.

[35:05] What is the one action step patent professionals can take today to improve diversity for the Patent Bar?

Find Elaine:

The Agile Mindset of the Office of Research Business Development at Tulane University

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Welcome to another episode of Tech Transfer IP. Today I am pleased to speak with Claiborne “Clay” Christian. Clay is a Business Development Officer for Tulane University. He focuses on establishing and facilitating collaborations involving research at Tulane and industry, venture capital, and other external partners, ensuring that all parties have an optimal enterprise experience.

Clay received a bachelor’s degree in classics and classical language, literature, and linguistics, with a minor in biology from Hendrix College and a Ph.D. in biomedical sciences from Tulane University. In addition, Clay did a postdoctoral fellowship at St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Listen as Clay shares his background and journey to the Office of Research Business Development (RBD) at Tulane University. He discusses the role of the RBD office at the University, the agile mindset that his office provides, and the newsletter he came up with during COVID called the Daily Digest.

Clay also talks about how closely his office and the Tech Transfer office at Tulane work together and what programs the RBD office has to help encourage and assist women and other traditionally under-represented researchers, inventors, and entrepreneurs. Clays also speaks about NACRO, what it is, his role in the organization, and some of the successful collaborations that have come out of the RBD office.

Clay’s three wishes for his office would be more trainee involvement in the office, a return to more regular interactions with other relevant offices, and a way to maintain the Tulane brand and share all the good they do.

In This Episode:

[01:38] Welcome to the show, Clay!

[01:59] Clay shares his background and his journey to the Office of Research Business Development (RBD) at Tulane.

[03:56] Can you tell us a little more about the university's RBD Office and its role?

[06:34] Clay discusses how the agile mindset works and the custom-tailored guidance and support his office has provided.

[10:24] Clay speaks about the COVID-19 Daily Digest his office started.

[13:52] How much time did your team spend putting out this newsletter?

[15:32] Clay shares how closely his office and the Tech Transfer office at Tulane work together.

[18:05] Clay discusses the programs RBD Office has to help encourage and assist women and other traditionally under-represented researchers, inventors, and entrepreneurs.

[20:55] Clay talks about NACRO, what it is, what it offers, and his role in the organization.

[24:42] Customer service mindset is one of the most important things when managing collaboration opportunities to have the greatest opportunity for success.

[28:01] Clay shares some successful collaborations that have come out of the RBD office.

[33:11] Maintaining a complete picture of the research at your institution and aligning academic and corporate expectations are two of the challenges his office faces.

[35:32] He would like to see more trainee involvement in the office, return to more regular interactions with other relevant offices and maintain the Tulane brand and share all the work they do.

[38:23] Thank you for being on the show!

Find Clay:

Technology Transfer at Osage University Partners with Kirsten

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Welcome to another episode of Tech Transfer IP. Today I am pleased to speak with Kirsten Leute, a Partner at Osage University Partners (OUP). At OUP, Kirsten is responsible for relationships with over 100 academic institutions that are partnered with the fund, engaging potential new partner institutions, and enhancing and creating value-add programs for the partnered academic institutions.

Kirsten has also been actively involved in Tech Transfer outside of her daily work. She was a former two-time board member for the Association of University Technology Managers and speaks frequently on university technology transfer. She is on the Board of Women in Bio.

Kirsten discusses what OUP is, the three funds they have under management that equal about 600 million dollars and how they decide which universities, research institutions, accelerators, etc., they work with. Listen as Kirsten tells us the difference between “core” and “associate” partnerships and how she and her team manage and work with over 100 academic institutions.

Kirsten also speaks about what the VOID is and some attributes that can help innovations make it through. Kirsten also mentions some companies OUP has backed and some successful acquisitions they have had. She believes AUTM has enabled every step she has taken in her career and life. Listen to why this organization is so important to her.

If Kirsten has three wishes for advancing university tech transfer, she would wish for more recognition for the terrific work tech transfer offices do; she would wish for more resources to continue doing more and easier paths to move things forward without so much red tape.

In This Episode:

[02:07] Welcome to the show, Kirsten!

[02:29] Kirsten shares her journey into Tech Transfer and how she ended up at OUP.

[06:36] Kirsten discusses OUP and what it is about.

[08:25] She speaks about the three funds that have about 600 million dollars under management.

[09:11] Kirsten shares how they decide which universities, research institutions, accelerators, etc., they work with.

[10:43] Can you tell us the difference between “core” and “associate” partnerships?

[12:39] Kirsten speaks about how she and her team manage and work with over 100 academic institutions.

[16:43] Kirsten shares some attributes that help innovations make it through the VOID.

[20:51] Kirsten talks about some companies that OUP has backed.

[22:41] She also speaks about some successful acquisitions they have had.

[23:46] What does OUP do to help encourage and assist women and other traditionally under-represented inventors and entrepreneurs?

[26:47] Kirsten discusses what AUTM means to her and how they have enabled every step she has taken in her journey.

[30:45] Kirsten shares her three wishes for advancing university tech transfer.

[34:17] Thank you for being on the show!

Find Kirsten:

TEDx Talk

AUTM’s Better World Project

Wed, 02 Jun 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Hello and welcome to a very special episode of Tech Transfer IP. Today I am pleased to speak with George Chellapa and Meagan Pitcher, the Co-chairs of AUTM’s Better World Project. However, before we talk about the details of the Better World Project, let me tell you a little about my guests George and Meagan.

George is an Invention Manager at Innovation and New Ventures at Northwestern University. George works with faculty to protect their intellectual property and bring technologies to market. He is also involved in negotiating agreements between Northwestern and commercial partners and helps faculty with start-up initiatives.

Meagan is a Licensing Associate at Baylor College of Medicine (BCM) Ventures. In her role, Meagan handles technology evaluation and triage, patent prosecution management, commercialization plan development, negotiation of complex technology licenses, post-deal compliance, and much more.

George shares about the Better World Project, what it is, and when it was started. He also names the people on the committee and how big the committee is. Meagan talks about the Better World Project Award, who can apply, and when you need to apply if you want to be considered. They also discuss how many submissions they get a year for the award, and how they are judged and that the score is based on three criteria, relevance, impact, and collaboration.

Meagan talks about the three finalists this year; University of Virginia - Innovation: Artificial Pancreas, University of Western Ontario - Innovation: Azedra, and the ultimate winner is Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile for Innovation of the ThyroidPrint. Meagan speaks about the interesting Tech Transfer story side of this invention. George explains the innovations of the other two finalists.

Listen as George and Meagan share some of the other amazing inventions featured in the Better World Collection, the inventions around COVID-19, the Honeycrisp apple, and even the fact that GOOGLE is a university-derived innovation. They both talk about their wishes for the Better World Project, which include more video content, more submissions worldwide, and more content on the videos submitted that show more about the people involved with the inventions.

In This Episode:

[02:05] Welcome to the show, George and Meagan!

[02:30] George shares about AUTM’s Better World Project and when it was started.

[04:14] George discusses the people who work on the committee surrounding the Better World Project who they are and how big it is.

[06:27] Meagan talks about the Better World Project Award and what it is.

[07:45] When can you apply for the Better World Project Award? Who can apply?

[09:12] Meagan speaks about how many submissions they get a year for the award.

[09:47] Meagan talks about how the judging occurs and the criteria for the award, relevance, impact, and collaboration.

[11:40] George says the prize will be awarded at the 2022 AUTM Annual Meeting.

[13:05] Meagan talks about the three finalists this year and who the winner this year was.

[15:03] George discusses the other two finalists this year and their innovations.

[18:33] Go to AUTM’s website under the Better World Project if you would like more information about this project.

[19:24] Meagan discusses some of the other important technologies whose stories are included in the Better World Project, starting with the ones that pertain to COVID-19.

[22:03] George speaks about a few more innovations they have heard of in the last year around COVID.

[24:11] GOOGLE is a university-derived innovation, and its story is included in the Better World Collection.

[27:06] George talks about the development of the Honeycrisp apple, one of the top apples grown in the United States.

[29:14] Meagan says that she wishes for the Better World Project to have more video content and more submissions from all over the world.

[31:20] George adds he wishes to have more videos on the submissions, talking to the people affected by the inventions.

[32:31] Thank you so much for being here today!

Find George

Find Meagan

Technology Transfer at Baylor College of Medicine Ventures

Wed, 26 May 2021 07:00:00 +0000

On this episode of Tech Transfer IP, Lisa is speaking with Meagan Pitcher, a Licensing Associate at Baylor College of Medicine (BCM) Ventures. In her role, Meagan handles technology evaluation and triage, patent prosecution management, commercialization plan development, negotiating of complex technology licenses, post-deal compliance, and much more. Before BCM, Meagan was with the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston.

Meagan shares her background and her journey to Tech Transfer and BCM Ventures. She speaks about what BCM Ventures are and how her office is structured, and how many invention disclosures, patent filings, revenue-generating agreements, royalty income, and other things like this her office has had in the last year. Meagan believes that communication is most important in managing innovations to have the greatest opportunity for success.

Listen as Meagan speaks about their corporate partners, philanthropic organizations, her office's biggest successes in technology and startups. Not having enough IP managers and funding are two of her office's biggest challenges, and Meagan talks about the organizations like AUTM she and her colleagues are involved in. Meagan also discusses AUTM's Better World Project and her role with this committee.

Meagan's three wishes for her office are more people like IP managers and assistants, a way to help get early stage technologies across the finish line so they can be commercialized, and having Houston recognized as a Biotech hub.

In This Episode:

[01:40] Welcome to the show, Meagan!

[02:00] Meagan shares her background and journey to BCM Ventures.

[06:31] Did you ever think of becoming a patent attorney?

[07:10] Meagan talks about BCM Ventures and how her office is structured.

[10:40] Meagan discusses how many invention disclosures, patent filings, revenue-generating agreements, royalty income, and other things her office has had in the last year.

[11:56] Communication is most important in managing innovations to have the greatest opportunity for success.

[14:01] Can you give us some examples of the relationships you have with corporate partners?

[15:22] Meagan believes that having corporate partners has led to differently structured deals.

[17:06] Meagan talks about the role of philanthropic organizations like the Gates Foundation.

[19:53] Meagan discusses some of her office's biggest successes in successful technologies and startups.

[24:43] Not enough IP managers and funding are two of her office's biggest challenges.

[28:37] What organizations like AUTM are you and your colleagues involved in, and what value do you think they add?

[29:53] Meagan shares AUTM's Better World Project and her role with this committee.

[33:33] Meagan talks about credentialing and whether she believes it makes a difference.

[35:50] More people in her office, something to help get early stage technologies across the finish line so they can be commercialized, and she would like Houston to be thought of as a Biotech hub are three wishes she has for her office.

[38:20] Thank you for being on the show!

Find Meagan

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in Technology Transfer

Wed, 19 May 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Welcome to a special episode of Technology Transfer IP. This episode will talk about equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in Tech Transfer. To help guide our discussion, we have assembled an esteemed panel of guests who have graciously agreed to share their knowledge and insights on this topic. Today's panel includes; Tom Hockaday, Anji Miller, Natalie Cozier, Almesha Campbell, and Megan Aanstoos.

Tom Hockaday is an author and leading expert in university technology transfer leadership, management, and operations. He led the tech transfer activities at the University of Oxford for ten years, from 2006 to 2016. His book University Technology Transfer - What it is and How to Do it, was published by Johns Hopkins University Press in 2020.

Dr. Anji Miller is Senior Business Manager at LifeArc, where she leads the AUTM Technology Transfer Training Fellowship Program. Dr. Miller has expertise in technology evaluation, exploitation, translational funding and strong commercial awareness, and a proven track record of contract negotiations, technology commercialization, and development of translational technologies.

Dr. Natalie Cozier is the Head of Regional Engagement for the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, which is part of UK Research and Innovation. Dr. Cozier is an experienced leader in organizational development, partnership building, and IPR asset management.

Dr. Almesha Campbell currently serves as the Assistant Vice President for Research and Economic Development/Director for Technology Transfer and Commercialization at Jackson State University (JSU). Dr. Campbell supports the overall direction of the Division of Research and Economic Development and manages the intellectual property process from triage of invention disclosures to commercialization.

Dr. Megan Aanstoos is the Licensing and New Ventures Manager for Kentucky Commercialization Ventures (KCV). In this role, Megan is responsible for outreach and education on matters related to commercialization, along with assessing, managing, and licensing intellectual property development at KCV Partner Institutions.

Listen as the panel discusses Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion and how it is being handled in the Technology Transfer sector both in the US and in the UK. They talk about why they believe there are so few black scientists in the UK, if there is something in academia that prohibits minority success, and what the UK is doing to help address EDI issues.

They also discuss the differences in EDI between the UK and the US and where the US sector is doing well, and where it could do better. The panel also discusses the resources that are available for anyone who would like to learn more. Tom talks about GEDITT, which stands for Global Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion in Tech Transfer and its goals. They also speak about where to find information on AUTM's efforts in this area.

In This Episode:

[04:34] Panel, welcome to the show!

[04:55] Tom talks about the article he wrote called White Board on his website Technology Transfer Innovation.

[07:38] Tom shares the purpose of University Technology Transfer.

[08:16] What motivated you to write this article now?

[13:07] Natalie shares why she believes there are so few black scientists in the UK.

[13:53] Natalie discusses whether there is something specific about academia and Tech Transfer in the UK, making it difficult for minorities to succeed.

[14:46] Can you tell us what the Tech Transfer sector is doing in the UK to address EDI issues?

[15:36] Natalie speaks about the initiatives by the UK government to help address EDI in research and Tech Transfer.

[17:12] Anji, what has it been like for you as one of only a few people of color working in this sector?

[18:42] Anji shares what she has learned about EDI in Tech Transfer in the UK.

[19:45] Anji discusses some differences in terms of how EDI is handled by the Tech Transfer sector in the UK compared to the US.

[20:45] Megan shares what she believes is different in how the United States versus other countries handle EDI and if the US is doing a better job than other countries.

[23:25] What is the Tech Transfer sector doing in the US to address EDI issues?

[26:05] Megan talks about where the sector is doing well and where they can do better in EDI.

[29:53] Almesha shares how, as an office of 1, she has handled EDI issues.

[33:19] How did you figure out where to even start with EDI?

[35:13] Megan talks about the EDI Committee Almesha mentioned.

[36:36] Almesha speaks about the resources she has relied on.

[40:20] Tom discusses the reaction he got to his article.

[43:15] With the reaction you received, what did you do next?

[44:26] Tom talks about GEDITT, which stands for Global Equity, Diversity, Inclusion in Tech Transfer.

[45:44] Anji speaks about GEDITT being a community of individuals from the Tech Transfer sector, patent offices, law firms, corporations, and more.

[47:16] Megan adds to what Anji just said.

[47:51] Almesha, do you want to discuss the purpose of GEDITT?

[49:33] Tom talks about some goals and next steps and calls to action for GEDITT.

[54:01] Megan shares where AUTM members can obtain more information about AUTM's efforts on EDI.

[56:06] Almesha, for those listeners that may be a part of a single or small office, where do you recommend they go to get more information or assistance on EDI?

[58:14] Megan speaks about the Emerging Members Program.

[59:23] Where can listeners in the UK go for more information about EDI?

[1:04:20] Thank you all for being on the show!

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