Tech Transfer IP

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: Email

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: Email  

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: Email

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:Email Find Elodie:Email

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: Email   Find Susan: Email

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: Email

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: Email

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: Website   Find Will: Email LinkedIn   Find Nicola: Email LinkedIn  

Social innovation refers to the creation of a new product, approach, program etc. that supports social change. Inclusive social innovation is social innovation that has diversity, equity, and inclusion principles at its core.  Inclusive Social Innovation is fundamental to all of the impactful work being done by the Social Innovation Hub (SIH) at the University of Calgary, of which today's guest, Jordana Armstrong, is the Director. During this episode, Jordana shares the meandering journey that led her to her current position, an overview of the programs that the SIH has implemented to support social innovation, and some of the many success stories to come out of the SIH. Jordana's advice to anyone looking to enhance social innovation at their own institution: start with curiosity!    In This Episode: [00:51] Introducing Director of the Social Innovation Hub (SIH) at the University of Calgary (UC), Jordana Armstrong. [02:10] Jordana shares the atypical journey that led her to her current position.   [05:19] The role of the SIH at UC, and the story of its evolution.   [09:15] Defining social innovation, and how it differs from commercialization.  [12:01] The people who make up Jordana's growing team at the SIH.  [15:41] Programs and services that the SIH provides for social enterprises that come out of UC. [19:49] A deep dive into UC's CATALYZE Program. [22:36] Funding opportunities that are available to social enterprises in the SIH.  [28:35] Jordana's advice for people looking to enhance social innovation in their institutions.  [31:44] Some of the SIH's many social enterprise success stories.  [36:18] The biggest challenges that Jordana and her team are facing.   [39:19] The SIH's approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion.  [43:13] Jordana's hopes for the future of social innovation in Alberta, and in the SIH.   Find Jordana: Email LinkedIn Innovate Calgary  

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: Email  Heartland Forward

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: Email Website Instagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn YouTube  

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: Email  

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: Email USPTO (Events) 

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: Email LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Antisexist  

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: Email LinkedIn  

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: Email  

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

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: Email  

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: Email Twitter LinkedIn Research Gate  

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: Email  LinkedIn

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: Website  

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: Email LinkedIn Twitter Instagram Wiggin and Dana Website Lawyering While Human on Instagram Lawyering While Human on Twitter  

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: Email  

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: Email Rutgers Research  

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: Email  

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: Email  

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:Email Find Jennifer Shockro:Email Find Jennifer Gottwald:Email

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: Email

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: Email LinkedIn  

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: Email  

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: LinkedIn Email  

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: Website  

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: Email

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: Email

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: Email ETH Zurich

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: Email TEDx Talk    Find May: Email  

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: Email LinkedIn  

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: Email  LinkedIn

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: Email IST Cube

“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: Email LinkedIn  

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: Email Instagram Twitter LinkedIn  

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: Email Technology Licensing Office at MIT

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: Email  

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: Email  

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: Email LinkedIn  

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: Email  

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: Email LinkedIn