We recently had an engaging session with Refilwe Ngaoto, who has been managing the Technology Transfer Office (TTO) at the University of Pretoria since 2009, to explore how universities turn research into real-world innovations. Here’s a look at what we learned about commercializing academic discoveries.
Turning Research into Business
One major focus was on how universities move technology from the research stage into the business world. This process, known as tech transfer, helps transform academic ideas into products or services that can make a difference in everyday life. It’s all about bridging the gap between research and real-world applications.
The Importance of IP Protection
Another key topic was intellectual property (IP) protection. All universities have specific IP policies to protect the inventions created by their researchers. For example, at the University of Pretoria, the policy states that IP rights belong to the university. This ensures that inventions are protected and can be managed effectively for commercialization.
What Makes an Invention Patentable?
An invention must be new, non-obvious, and useful to be patentable. Knowing these criteria is vital for researchers who want to secure patents and bring their ideas to market.
The benefits of commercialization
Turning research into commercial products has several benefits. It allows collaboration with industry partners and opens doors for financial compensation in the form of equity license fees or royalty payments.
Success Story: Mobile Health Hearing Screening Solution
One exciting example we covered was the "mobile health hearing screening solution." This device, created by two inventors from the Department of Speech Therapy and the Department of Information Technology, helps practically identify hearing loss. It’s a great example of how combining different areas of expertise can lead to groundbreaking innovations. Learn more about hearScreen.
Our session with Refilwe Ngaoto and the TTO highlighted how universities can turn research into valuable products through effective tech transfer and IP protection. Best, Solve Hub Team
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