University missions are broadening to encompass the aspirations of economic development.  Harnessing and commercializing academic scientific and technological knowledge rests primarily with university technology transfer offices. My discussion focuses on the findings of an investigation into the processes and workings of university technology transfer offices that I have been conducting with my colleagues over the past eighteen months.  We have conducted in-depth interviews with a sample of ten (to date; more anticipated) university technology transfer officers which uncover what occurs in the �black box� from faculty disclosure through patent procedures in the life sciences, to licensing and start-up company negotiations.  We find that the �value chain� of procedures and activities that technology transfer offices utilize varies extensively, as do relationships with faculty, administration and external constituencies.  By identifying best practices in technology transfer, we here offer specific suggestions as to ways in which the process can be improved.

What really happens inside university technology transfer offices: Preliminary findings from in-depth investigations

244th National Meeting (2012)

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