Mission of Technology Transfer Specialists
Research and Service Contracts
Research contracts are negotiated within the framework of a successful cooperation between all interested parties and under the provisions of professional guidelines. Beyond this, transfer specialists support researchers in the formulation and negotiation of various other contracts, such as consulting contracts, non-disclosure agreements, Material Transfer Agreements, etc.
Identifying and Evaluating Research Findings with Potential Economic Value:
With a broad range of contacts and related activities, the office of technology transfer is often the first contact point for researchers wishing to further pursue research results with potential economic value. The first step is to evaluate the results and define the optimal conversion strategy.
The protection and valuation of intellectual property
Technology transfer centers are responsible for the protection and management of intellectual property (patent applications, software, electronic circuits, etc). They research prior art for patents and coordinate patent registrations with the patent lawyer. They also contact potential business partners, negotiate license agreements and assume the management of these agreements.
Spin-Off Companies
Another significant aspect related to technology transfer is support for Spin-offs or Start-ups in cases where the conversion of research results is best suited toward the creation of a new company. Depending upon the institution, a broad range of services is offered to assist the firm’s founders. Technology transfer professionals manage the contractual guidelines with the university, offer support during the business plan formulation, and assistance in the search for financial backing.
Promoting a Culture of Technology Transfer
Transfer specialists play an important role as promoters of a culture of co-operation between their various institutions and the private sector. This culture is promoted in the context of daily contact with researchers, through an open exchange of information and through the pursuit of related professional development.
Research contracts are negotiated within the framework of a successful cooperation between all interested parties and under the provisions of professional guidelines. Beyond this, transfer specialists support researchers in the formulation and negotiation of various other contracts, such as consulting contracts, non-disclosure agreements, Material Transfer Agreements, etc.
Identifying and Evaluating Research Findings with Potential Economic Value:
With a broad range of contacts and related activities, the office of technology transfer is often the first contact point for researchers wishing to further pursue research results with potential economic value. The first step is to evaluate the results and define the optimal conversion strategy.
The protection and valuation of intellectual property
Technology transfer centers are responsible for the protection and management of intellectual property (patent applications, software, electronic circuits, etc). They research prior art for patents and coordinate patent registrations with the patent lawyer. They also contact potential business partners, negotiate license agreements and assume the management of these agreements.
Spin-Off Companies
Another significant aspect related to technology transfer is support for Spin-offs or Start-ups in cases where the conversion of research results is best suited toward the creation of a new company. Depending upon the institution, a broad range of services is offered to assist the firm’s founders. Technology transfer professionals manage the contractual guidelines with the university, offer support during the business plan formulation, and assistance in the search for financial backing.
Promoting a Culture of Technology Transfer
Transfer specialists play an important role as promoters of a culture of co-operation between their various institutions and the private sector. This culture is promoted in the context of daily contact with researchers, through an open exchange of information and through the pursuit of related professional development.