AUTM on the Air

Επεισόδια

• Bridging the Early-Stage Funding Gap in Innovation with Teri Willey 03.06.2026 29λ

  There’s a stretch of time in innovation where things feel the most uncertain, when the science is promising but the path forward isn’t clear and the capital hasn’t quite caught up. It’s a space that can quietly stall even the most compelling ideas. In this episode, the conversation zeroes in on that early stage gap and what it really takes to move something forward when the usual funding sources aren’t ready yet.My guest today is Teri Willey, founding managing director of Pathway to Cures, the venture philanthropy fund of the National Bleeding Disorders Foundation. Teri has worked across nearly every part of the innovation ecosystem, from leading tech transfer offices to building venture funds and advising investors. That range of experience shapes how she thinks about translation, especially the less obvious pieces that influence whether a deal comes together or falls apart.We talk about how venture philanthropy works in practice and why it’s becoming an important tool for advancing therapies that might otherwise struggle to find early support. Teri also shares why understanding human behavior can matter just as much as understanding the science, how patient input can change the trajectory of a company, and what tech transfer professionals can do to better align with early-stage investors. It’s a grounded look at how progress actually happens and what it takes to keep it moving.In This Episode:[02:17] Teri Willey reflects on her career and the common thread of working between for-profit and nonprofit worlds to commercialize early-stage science.[03:13] Why science, IP, and funding alone aren’t enough, and how human behavior plays a critical role in getting deals done.[04:27] Practical advice on managing stakeholder dynamics and keeping negotiations focused on shared outcomes.[05:12] Defining venture philanthropy and how it differs from traditional venture capital and grant funding.[06:24] How Pathway to Cures reinvests returns to support future innovation rather than distributing profits.[07:08] Inside the fund: small team, targeted focus, and leveraging expert advisors and volunteers.[08:19] Reviewing hundreds of opportunities and acting as both investor and resource for companies in the space.[09:26] The value of deep scientific advisors and staying close to emerging, sometimes stealth-stage innovations.[10:53] Where therapies most often stall, especially in the seed and Series A funding gap.[12:07] Why early patient engagement is critical for clinical success and long-term adoption.[13:34] The structure of Pathway to Cures and how independence within a foundation enables flexibility.[14:57] How tech transfer offices can think of venture philanthropy funds as partners or potential licensees.[16:11] What investors look for and why understanding an investment memo can help TTOs evaluate opportunities.[17:23] The importance of speed and clarity in licensing negotiations to avoid losing momentum.[18:49] Strategies for anticipating capital needs across different types of technologies.[20:16] How IP is viewed as the starting point, not the endpoint, of building a company.[21:38] Defining success beyond returns, focusing on delivering real therapies and patient impact.[22:52] The growing role of disease-focused foundations in venture investing.[24:18] Why traditional investors value foundations for their patient access and domain expertise.[25:27] How TTOs can better collaborate by engaging early and asking what makes a project investable.[26:33] What keeps Teri optimistic despite challenges across funding, regulation, and commercialization.[27:41] Closing reflections on progress, persistence, and the growing impact of innovation.Resources: AUTMPathway to CuresTeri Willey - LinkedIn
• Detecting Alzheimer’s Earlier with a Simple Blood Test with Yuanbing Jiang 27.05.2026 22λ

  Early detection is everything when it comes to Alzheimer’s, but for years, the tools available have made that nearly impossible at scale. Today’s conversation takes a closer look at a breakthrough that could change that equation in a very real way. My guest is Dr. Yuanbing Jiang, also known as Jason, a research assistant professor in the Division of Life Science at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. His work sits at the intersection of neuroscience, proteomics, and large-scale data analysis, with a focus on finding practical ways to detect and understand neurodegenerative disease much earlier than we’ve been able to before.We talk about the development of a 21-protein blood biomarker panel for Alzheimer’s disease, a test that’s reaching about 96% accuracy in detecting early-stage cases and has already been used in clinical settings in Hong Kong. Jason walks through how advances in high-sensitivity proteomic assays made it possible to measure thousands of proteins at once, and why moving beyond a narrow focus on amyloid markers has been key to improving accuracy. We also get into what it actually means to stage Alzheimer’s biologically, not just diagnose it, and how that changes the way clinicians think about treatment timing.There’s also a broader story here about access and impact. This blood-based approach is faster, less invasive, and significantly more affordable than traditional methods like PET imaging, which opens the door for wider use in different healthcare settings around the world. We discuss what earlier diagnosis means for patients and families, how it could accelerate drug development and clinical trials, and why this kind of innovation is a strong example of what can happen when academic research, technology transfer, and real-world application come together at the right moment.In This Episode:[03:47] Jason explains why Alzheimer’s begins developing 10–20 years before symptoms appear and why patients often miss the treatment window.[04:31] Traditional diagnostics like PET imaging and spinal fluid tests are effective but too expensive or invasive for widespread use.[05:12] The idea emerges to create a simple blood test that could be faster, cheaper, and accessible to a much broader population.[06:08] New high-sensitivity proteomic technology makes it possible to measure over 1,000 blood proteins with dramatically improved accuracy.[06:56] His team identifies more than 400 potential biomarkers and narrows them down to a 21-protein panel for detection.[07:43] Different biomarkers reveal distinct stages of Alzheimer’s, with immune system changes appearing earlier than neurological decline.[08:37] The test doesn’t just detect disease, it helps determine what stage a patient is in, which is critical for treatment decisions.[09:41] Early-stage identification becomes essential as certain drugs only work when intervention happens before major decline.[11:03] Two key innovations drive the breakthrough: ultra-sensitive detection technology and a whole-body view beyond amyloid markers.[12:06] Expanding beyond amyloid to include immune, metabolic, and vascular signals improves both accuracy and disease understanding.[13:02] High diagnostic accuracy reduces misdiagnosis, which can significantly impact patient outcomes and care planning.[13:58] Validation across Chinese and Spanish cohorts shows the test works consistently across different populations.[15:02] The blood test reduces diagnostic costs by up to 88%, making early detection more feasible in resource-limited settings.[16:07] Earlier diagnosis allows patients to access treatment sooner and gives families time to plan and prepare.[16:53] Blood-based biomarkers streamline clinical trial recruitment by quickly identifying qualified patients.[17:36] Pharmaceutical companies can now screen large populations more efficiently, accelerating drug development timelines.[18:22] The next phase focuses on large-scale validation, regulatory approval, and expansion into global healthcare systems.[19:28] AI is expected to enhance diagnosis, risk prediction, and therapeutic development using biomarker data.[20:34] Jason shares optimism that earlier detection and better tools could significantly change Alzheimer’s outcomes in the next decade.[21:12] The conversation closes with the broader impact, and how this innovation could reshape diagnosis, treatment, and patient care worldwide.Resources: AUTMYuanbing JIANG - The Hong Kong University of Science and TechnologyYuanbing JIANG - Google Scholar
• Turning Research into Real World Impact from the Inside Out with Ravini Moodley 20.05.2026 24λ

  Most people focus on the breakthrough, but there is a massive gap between a scientific discovery and a product that actually reaches the public. Today, we’re stepping into the "engine room" of one of Africa’s premier research institutions to see how that gap is bridged. My guest is Ravini Moodley, Director of the Technology Transfer Office at Stellenbosch University’s Innovus. She has a background in microbiology and a Master’s in Technology and Innovation Management. She also has the ability to speak both the technical language of the scientist and the strategic language of the market.At Innovus, she leads a specialized team tasked with finding the "gems" buried within university research and polishing them for the real world. While the broader commercial strategy is set at the executive level, Ravini manages the ground-level pipeline that moves ideas from the lab bench to a functional spin-out. This role requires constant navigation between social impact and economic viability. While ensuring that complex science doesn't just sit on a shelf, but transforms into a solution that can survive a competitive global landscape.We discuss building a high-functioning TTO and why empathy is the most underrated skill in the field. We also learn why South Africa’s unique geography shapes their strategy. Rather than trying to out-compete institutions like MIT or Oxford in every category, Stellenbosch is doubling down on agricultural and sustainability technologies where they can lead the world simply by connecting the right people. We look at what it takes to turn research into something the world can benefit from.In This Episode:[02:27] Ravini walks through the rhythm of her day, from early meetings on contracts and licensing to coordinating closely with research management and her team.[05:10] Much of the work centers on connecting researchers with industry while balancing reporting, policy review, and the constant flow of new opportunities.[08:20] Identifying strong IP is both proactive and reactive, with the team building relationships in labs to spot promising ideas before publication.[11:05] A sustainability case study highlights enzyme-based technology for breaking down bioplastics, developed through a collaboration with the University of Padova.[14:35] Ravini explains how projects move from disclosure through IP protection and early business analysis before transitioning to the LaunchLab incubator.[17:42] Empathy plays a key role in guiding researchers, especially when navigating tough conversations around patentability and commercialization paths.[20:02] While tech transfer challenges are similar globally, South Africa faces unique hurdles due to market size and geographic distance, making global partnerships essential.[22:00] She shares her excitement around sustainability and agricultural technologies, where local impact can often happen more quickly with the right connections.Resources: AUTMRavini Moodley - Stellenbosch UniversityRavini Moodley - LinkedIn
• Timing, Trust, and Technical Credibility Building, the Long Game with Ram Krishnan 13.05.2026 30λ

  One of the biggest shifts in technology transfer over the past decade isn’t just the pace of innovation. It’s the realization that value isn’t created at a single moment. It builds over time, shaped by how well research, intellectual property, and real-world application stay aligned. The challenge isn’t only generating strong ideas. It’s understanding how those ideas evolve, how they’re protected, and whether they ultimately solve problems people care enough about to adopt and pay for.My guest today is Ram Krishnan, Senior Director of Engineering in Qualcomm’s Government Affairs Group, where he focuses on global IP ecosystem development. Ram's career has taken him across engineering, business, and intellectual property in standards-driven industries such as wireless communications, AI, XR, and autonomous driving. Now he works with universities, startups, and government organizations around the world, focused on how innovation gets taught, protected, and turned into real products and technologies that can actually scale.We talk about what it means to think about innovation as a full lifecycle rather than a single breakthrough, how strong IP portfolios are built over time, and why the most durable technologies consistently solve meaningful, “pay-for” problems. Ram also shares how industry approaches long-term university partnerships, what signals a tech transfer office is thinking beyond a single transaction, and why early education around IP can change the trajectory of entire ecosystems. It’s a grounded look at how ideas move from research labs into global standards and what makes that journey successful.In This Episode:[02:30] How wireless R&D runs on long innovation cycles, where each generation from 3G to 5G builds over time through continuous problem-solving.[04:15] Ram describes his current work at Qualcomm, focusing on global IP ecosystem development and engaging universities, students, and startups around innovation and entrepreneurship.[05:55] What successful technologies have in common early on, centering on solving real problems that people are willing to pay for.[06:57] Looking back at 3G, we reflect on how bringing internet access to mobile phones once felt groundbreaking, even if it seems routine now.[07:35] We discuss 4G and 5G, and how video, content creation, and network demands evolved with each wave.[08:25] A look ahead to 6G, where AI and wireless technologies are expected to become increasingly intertwined.[09:21] IP strategy, with an emphasis on building strong portfolios across the lifecycle rather than relying on single patents.[11:05] Universities come into the picture, especially their strength in foundational research and the growing need to translate that into commercially useful IP.[12:35] A deeper look at university relationships shows why long-term, trust-based partnerships tend to outperform one-off engagements.[14:10] Programs like the Inventors Patent Academy come up as examples of how early education around IP is being built into the pipeline.[15:45] The balance between standards and proprietary innovation is explored, showing how both play a role in scaling technology globally.[18:00] In areas like AI and 6G, universities are engaging more deliberately, including increased participation in standards development.[20:05] Internal alignment across engineering, legal, and business teams is highlighted as a key factor in making external collaborations run smoothly.[21:30] Strong university partners tend to stay aligned on outcomes and connect their research to real-world problems, even as projects and people change.[23:03] Expanding a single invention into adjacent use cases comes up as a practical way to build a more valuable and durable IP portfolio.[24:10] When universities reach out, things like entrepreneurial culture, maker spaces, and spinout track records signal whether there’s real alignment.[25:45] Ram reflects on lessons learned, especially the importance of being disciplined about IP disclosure before sharing ideas in collaborative settings.[26:43] Tech transfer works best when it takes a full, 360-degree view from early education all the way through commercialization.Resources: AUTMRam Krishnan - LinkedInQualcommThe Inventor’s Patent Academy
• The Missing Link Between Research and Real-World Impact with Ben Reinhardt 06.05.2026 35λ

  There’s a moment every tech transfer professional recognizes, when a discovery feels like it could matter, but you can’t quite see how it gets from the lab into the real world. That gap is where a lot of promising ideas stall out. In this episode, the conversation takes a closer look at that in-between space and asks a simple but uncomfortable question: what if the problem isn’t just funding or timing, but the lack of the right kind of institution to carry these ideas forward?This is our 300th episode, and I’m happy to introduce Ben Reinhardt, founder and CEO of Speculative Technologies. His career has taken him through academia, NASA, startups, and venture capital, and that perspective shapes how he thinks about innovation. We talk about what he calls “big-if-true” technologies, how to recognize them, and why the current system often struggles to support them. Ben shares why the traditional, linear view of innovation breaks down in practice and how different environments each bring strengths that don’t always connect the way we assume.We also get into the structural gaps that leave technologies stranded in the valley of death, what earlier models like Bell Labs actually got right, and why simply recreating them isn’t realistic today. Ben walks through how his organization approaches early-stage ideas, from identifying the biggest risks to thinking ahead about how something eventually reaches the market or becomes a public good. It’s a thoughtful look at how innovation really happens and what might need to change to help more ideas make it all the way through.In This Episode:[03:02] Ben Reinhardt shares how frustration across academia, NASA, startups, and venture capital led him to create a new kind of research institution.[03:55] The idea behind Speculative Technologies emerges from seeing the same barriers repeated across every innovation environment.[05:28] Why recognizing breakthrough ideas often starts with a researcher’s intuition before it can be clearly articulated.[07:05] A dual strategy for sourcing ideas: high-touch conversations and broad outreach signals to attract unconventional thinkers.[08:15] Lessons from working across institutions and why innovation doesn’t follow a simple linear path.[10:22] How different environments excel at different types of work, from deep research to rapid execution.[11:30] Why many promising technologies get stuck in the valley of death due to a lack of system-level ownership.[13:45] Revisiting Bell Labs and similar models, and why modern equivalents need to look very different.[14:50] The importance of combining small exploratory teams with the ability to scale successful ideas.[17:05] Why large corporations no longer sustain these labs due to financial pressure and changing incentives.[18:20] How innovation has shifted toward universities and startups as primary sources of new technology.[20:10] Breaking down the four phases of Speculative Technologies’ research model from idea to transition.[21:05] Why identifying the biggest technical risk early is more important than showing incremental progress.[22:10] The “monkey and pedestal” analogy for focusing on what actually matters in early-stage research.[24:45] The complexity of intellectual property and when it may or may not be the right tool.[27:20] Why universities are not structured to fully develop or commercialize most technologies.[29:10] Signals that a technology is ready to move beyond exploration into real-world application.[31:05] The risks of pushing technologies out too early and damaging their long-term potential.[32:10] Emerging areas of excitement, including advanced manufacturing, AI-enabled science, and new transportation systems.[34:10] The value of embedding real-world practitioners into research environments to guide direction.[35:00] Why breakthrough innovation requires new systems, incentives, and ways of thinking.Resources: AUTMBen ReinhardtSpeculative Technologies
• Thriving in Small Tech Transfer Offices with Caitlin Long and Sanaz Shahi 29.04.2026 21λ

  Collaboration is one of the defining strengths of the technology transfer community, and it often becomes even more important when resources are limited. This conversation takes a closer look at what it really means to operate in a small or under-resourced office, where the work can feel both expansive and unpredictable. From managing intellectual property to handling budgets, compliance, and stakeholder relationships, the scope of the role is broad, and no two days look quite the same.My guests are two leaders who have spent a great deal of time thinking about how these offices not only function, but find ways to grow and succeed. Caitlin Long is Director of Technology Transfer and Innovation at Alvernia University and serves as the AUTM Small Office co-chair and an AUTM Foundation board member, with a focus on translating ideas into real-world health impact through a student-powered, community-engaged model. She is joined by Sanaz Shahi, Administrative Director of Intellectual Property at Rowan University and co-chair of the AUTM Small Offices Committee, who also plays an active role in supporting diversity, mentorship, and professional development across the AUTM community.We talk about the realities of wearing multiple hats, the unexpected responsibilities that come with running a small office, and the moments when you realize you need help that may not exist within your own institution. We also explore the role of the AUTM Small Office Special Interest Group as a practical, day-to-day resource, along with strategies for avoiding burnout, building support systems, and learning from others instead of starting from scratch. We take a grounded look at how collaboration, shared knowledge, and community can turn what might feel like an isolated role into something far more connected and sustainable.In This Episode:[02:09] A look at what day-to-day work actually involves in a small tech transfer office, where one person often handles multiple roles at once.[03:10] How responsibilities can range from licensing and IP strategy to stakeholder engagement and student supervision.[04:20] The challenge of constantly switching between big-picture strategy and detailed operational work is explored.[05:05] Real-world examples show how deadlines, competing priorities, and limited time can create pressure in small teams.[06:10] A surprising aspect of the role is the amount of financial and administrative work involved, including budgets and legal invoices.[07:15] Early career moments are shared where there was little internal support and a need to seek guidance externally.[08:05] The importance of the broader tech transfer community becomes clear as a source of advice, mentorship, and practical solutions.[09:20] Fellowship experiences are discussed as a way to gain knowledge, build confidence, and connect with experienced professionals.[10:30] The idea of becoming “trilingual” in science, business, and law is introduced as a key skill in tech transfer.[11:40] A discussion on why the community is so willing to share knowledge and support one another.[12:50] The AUTM Small Office Special Interest Group is introduced as more than a forum, but a support system for under-resourced teams.[13:40] Examples of real, practical conversations within the group, including patent strategy, budgeting, and compliance challenges.[14:50] The value of sharing templates, workflows, and real-world examples to avoid reinventing the wheel.[16:00] A shift toward sustainability and the importance of managing workload to prevent burnout.[17:10] Strategies for setting boundaries and building support systems, even when staffing is limited.[18:05] Creative approaches to staffing, including the use of student workers to extend capacity.[19:00] The feeling of isolation in small offices is addressed, along with encouragement to connect with the broader community.[19:50] Practical advice on building relationships, asking questions, and reaching out for one-on-one support.[20:40] Reflections on how being part of the AUTM community changes decision-making and leadership approach.[21:20] A reminder that collaboration and shared knowledge are key to long-term success in tech transfer.Resources: AUTMCaitlin Long - Alvernia UniversityCaitlin Long - LinkedInCaitlin Long - AUTMSanaz Shahi - Rowan University Sanaz Shahi - LinkedIn
• Cleaning Up Forever: How AI and Membrane Science Are Taking PFAS Out of Our Water with Dr. Yongsheng Chen 22.04.2026 29λ

  Clean water plays a fundamental role in health, safety, and quality of life. This Earth Day conversation takes a closer look at PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” and the growing challenge they pose to drinking water systems across the United States and beyond. My guest is Dr. Yongsheng Chen, a professor in the School of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Georgia Institute of Technology and the driving force behind a new approach to water treatment that aims to remove these contaminants at their source.We talk about what makes PFAS so difficult to manage, from their persistence in the environment to the limitations of traditional, chemical-based treatment methods. Dr. Chen explains how his team is using artificial intelligence and machine learning to design advanced nanofiltration membranes. These membranes are built to target harmful substances and pull them out of the water, while still allowing clean water to pass through. His work focuses on removing what doesn’t belong in the first place. That difference matters more now as regulations tighten and even very small traces of contamination are no longer acceptable.There’s also a broader story here about how innovation moves from research to real-world impact. Through the startup Minus Filtration, this technology is being developed for use in municipal systems, with potential applications that extend into agriculture and environmental protection. We discuss the role of multi-university collaboration, federal funding, and tech transfer in bringing this work forward, and what it takes to turn a scientific breakthrough into something communities can actually use.In This Episode:[02:10] Dr. Yongsheng Chen explains how PFAS have accumulated in water, soil, and even human bodies after decades of use in everyday products.[03:45] The discussion highlights why PFAS are so difficult to remove, including their chemical stability, low concentrations, and the limits of existing water systems.[05:10] Traditional water treatment methods are examined, including how chemical-based processes can solve one problem while introducing new risks.[06:45] The conversation shifts to the need for new approaches as regulations require detection and removal at extremely low levels.[08:12] Dr. Chen introduces the “minus approach,” which focuses on removing harmful contaminants rather than adding more chemicals to the water.[09:35] A deeper look at nanofiltration membranes and how they act as precise molecular filters to separate contaminants from clean water.[11:00] Dr. Chen describes how artificial intelligence and machine learning have accelerated membrane design, reducing years of trial and error to a faster, targeted process.[12:30] The role of multi-university collaboration is explored, showing how different institutions contributed expertise to solve a complex problem.[13:50] The journey from academic research to startup formation is outlined, including how the technology moved from lab results to real-world application.[15:05] The importance of tech transfer offices is discussed, especially in guiding patents, licensing, and early commercialization efforts.[16:10] Why municipal drinking water systems are the first target market and how the technology can integrate into existing infrastructure.[17:40] The conversation expands to agriculture, including how PFAS-contaminated biosolids are spreading chemicals across millions of acres of farmland.[19:05] Dr. Chen explains how his technology can remove PFAS upstream in wastewater treatment, helping prevent contamination before it reaches soil and crops.[20:30] The concept of a circular economy is introduced, with a focus on removing contaminants while recovering useful nutrients.[22:00] The impact of federal funding is discussed, showing how support from agencies like the USDA, NSF, and EPA enables real-world innovation.[23:20] New EPA regulations on PFAS are explored, along with how stricter standards are driving urgency and creating demand for effective solutions.[24:10] The challenge of removing short-chain PFAS is addressed, along with progress in developing membranes that can target both long- and short-chain compounds.[25:15] Dr. Chen shares upcoming milestones, including improving membrane performance and scaling the technology through pilot testing.[26:00] Looking ahead 10 years, the vision is a future where PFAS are no longer accumulating and clean water is the default.[27:05] Advice is offered for tech transfer professionals on moving research into real-world impact through collaboration and persistence.[28:20] Reflections on the role of innovation, AI, and commercialization in creating safer, more sustainable water systems.Resources: AUTMDr. Yongsheng Chen - Georgia TechMinus Filtration
• Startup Success Starts with the Problem, Not the Tech with Marc Filerman 15.04.2026 53λ

  Turning research into something that actually works in the real world sounds straightforward, but it rarely is. There’s a gap between discovery and impact that trips up even the most promising ideas, and it often has less to do with the science and more to do with how the problem is framed, understood, and communicated. My guest today is Marc Filerman, Chief Business Officer at Start2 Group, a global accelerator working across academia, startups, and government to help early-stage ventures de-risk, grow, and scale.Marc brings a unique perspective shaped by his background as an MIT-trained engineer, corporate leader, and serial startup founder. At Start2 Group, he helps run major programs like BARDA-supported VITAL and NSF-backed Stride Ventures, supporting thousands of companies and contributing to billions in follow-on funding. We talk about what actually separates startups that move forward from those that stall out, including the importance of defining a clear problem, building a real value proposition, and choosing a focused foothold market instead of trying to do everything at once.We also get into where universities and tech transfer offices have an opportunity to better prepare founders, especially when it comes to early validation and adopting a commercial lens alongside strong IP. Marc shares practical insights on funding pathways beyond venture capital, common mistakes he sees again and again, and how small shifts in thinking can dramatically improve a startup’s chances of success.In This Episode:[04:05] Marc shares the three through-lines guiding his career: building things, solving complex problems, and teaching others.[06:15] He explains his shift from engineering to startups through a passion for translating real-world problems into solutions.[08:45] Introduction to Start2 Group and its global footprint supporting startup de-risking and commercialization.[11:20] Breakdown of government-backed programs including BARDA and NSF partnerships, and how they fund innovation.[14:10] Differences between VITAL (biotech, pandemic preparedness) and STRIDE (deep tech, materials reclamation).[17:48] A major funding opportunity is highlighted, including a $100M antiviral development initiative.[21:52] Marc outlines three core startup success factors: clear problem, strong value proposition, and focused market entry.[24:10] Why poorly defined problem statements derail startups before they gain traction.[26:30] He explains value propositions as benefits divided by adoption hurdles, not just features or outcomes.[29:15] Common adoption barriers emerge, especially inertia and resistance to workflow disruption in healthcare systems.[32:05] The hidden impact of IT integration and organizational complexity on startup adoption.[34:45] Why many “real problems” never get solved due to low prioritization despite clear need.[42:33] The importance of choosing a foothold market and resisting the urge to over-expand too early.[44:10] Academic founders struggle with narrowing focus due to fear of limiting platform potential.[46:00] Defining a true foothold market as one where customers urgently demand the solution.[48:10] The biggest gap in university commercialization is lack of early validation and commercial thinking.[49:20] Tech transfer offices can better support founders by encouraging market validation beyond IP development.[50:30] Not all startups fit the VC model, alternative funding paths like angels and bootstrapping are critical.[51:30] Closing reflections on improving startup success through clearer strategy and commercialization readiness.Resources: AUTMStart2Marc Filerman - LinkedIn
• Deciding When Research Should Become a Startup with Omar Zahr 08.04.2026 25λ

  One of the toughest calls in technology transfer isn’t deciding whether a discovery is interesting or even promising. It’s deciding whether that discovery should become a company at all. There’s a big difference between a strong piece of research and something that can support a venture-backed startup, and most of the real work happens in that space in between.My guest today is Omar Zahr, Chief Technology Officer at TandemLaunch, a venture creation firm that builds companies around university technologies in collaboration with global industry and academic networks. Omar started his career as a researcher at McGill University, where he completed a Ph.D. in Materials Chemistry before moving into venture development. Over the years, he’s worked at the intersection of deep tech, founders, and university IP, helping shape early-stage research into companies that are actually investable and positioned for growth.We talk about how to evaluate whether a technology is truly “company-ready,” what it takes to build a business around early-stage science, and why not every invention should become a startup. Omar also shares how TandemLaunch approaches founder pairing, how investor expectations shape deep tech timelines, and where tech transfer offices can make or break momentum in the process. It’s a practical look at what happens between invention disclosure and a funded company, and why getting that middle stage right matters so much.In This Episode:[05:08] Omar Zahr walks through his transition from materials science at McGill into venture creation at TandemLaunch.[06:14] He explains how curiosity, not a fixed plan, led him away from academia and toward commercialization.[07:22] The moment he began to understand the broader gap between research and real-world impact started to take shape.[08:35] Omar outlines how TandemLaunch differs from traditional incubators by acting as a company builder, not just a funder.[09:48] The venture creation model is described as an end-to-end process from invention to seed-stage startup.[11:02] He shares what makes a university technology “company-ready,” starting with proof of core scientific validity.[12:16] The idea of building a business narrative first comes into focus as a key decision-making tool.[13:29] Working backward from a successful exit helps determine whether a startup path even makes sense.[14:41] Omar explains how some technologies are better suited for licensing when a full company story can’t be formed.[15:54] The role of tech transfer offices is highlighted as essential for structuring deals and protecting all sides.[17:08] Early IP clarity is discussed, focusing on capturing the true differentiator behind the invention.[18:21] He breaks down how licensing complexities like field of use and background IP are handled in practice.[19:37] Getting involved early allows TandemLaunch to influence patent strategy and support broader filings.[20:49] The conversation shifts to founder selection, including how technical and product leads are identified.[22:03] Omar explains why experienced CEOs are critical, even when other team members are first-time founders.[23:17] Managing expectations between inventors and startup teams often comes down to relationship dynamics.[24:28] Deep tech timelines and investor expectations are explored, with a focus on reducing risk step by step.[25:32] Omar closes on a key challenge: slow negotiations introduce risk and can quietly kill otherwise strong deals.Resources: AUTMTandemLaunchOmar Zahr - LinkedInOmar Zahr - AUTM
• Building Strong Industry Academic Partnerships with Mark Fairey 01.04.2026 19λ

  Some of the most meaningful industry–academic partnerships don’t begin with a breakthrough headline or a flashy piece of technology. More often, they take shape around a real research need, a practical solution, and a willingness to keep showing up and working through the details over time. That’s the kind of collaboration we’re exploring here, including how ideas move from early-stage science into something researchers can actually use, and what it takes to make those relationships last.My guest today is Mark Fairey, Senior Licensing Manager at STEMCELL Technologies, Canada’s largest biotech company known for its high-quality reagents, instruments, and tools used by life science researchers around the world. Mark has spent two decades at STEMCELL, moving through roles in R&D, scientific sales, business operations, and now licensing and business development. That range of experience gives him a grounded, practical perspective on what it really takes to turn academic discoveries into reliable, scalable products, and why the strongest partnerships often start long before anything is ready for market.We talk about what actually bridges the gap between a promising idea in the lab and something that can be reproduced, scaled, and trusted in labs globally. Mark shares how STEMCELL evaluates technologies, why understanding real-world workflows matters just as much as the science itself, and where academic teams often underestimate the challenges of usability and scale. We also get into the role of tech transfer offices, what makes early conversations productive, and why consistent communication is still the backbone of any successful long-term partnership.In This Episode:[02:03] Mark Fairey reflects on his 20-year path at STEMCELL Technologies, from research into sales, operations, and licensing.[03:11] He explains how time spent working directly with researchers gave him a clearer view of how products perform in the real world.[04:07] The conversation turns to STEMCELL’s “scientists helping scientists” philosophy and how that mindset still shapes the company today.[05:02] Mark discusses what helps move a promising academic insight toward something that can become a dependable product.[06:18] He says early-stage science needs more than exciting data. It also needs a real commercial niche and a practical use case.[07:26] A simple muffin-baking analogy captures why scaling a process is much harder than just repeating what worked in the lab.[08:39] Mark shares how his exposure to customers and end users affects the way he evaluates technologies for licensing.[09:47] Trust, strong science, and a shared commitment to improving research workflows all factor into lasting academic partnerships.[10:56] He points to communication as one of the most important ways tech transfer offices can keep partnerships productive over time.[12:04] Regular check-ins, clear expectations, and timely replies all make it easier for industry and academia to stay aligned.[13:16] Not every collaboration leads to a license, and Mark explains why smaller, informal relationships can still be worthwhile.[14:28] The discussion highlights what academic teams sometimes miss about usability, shelf stability, and large-scale reproducibility.[15:42] Mark broadens the lesson beyond life sciences, arguing that commercialization always starts with solving a real-world problem.[16:54] He reflects on how the volume of university innovation has grown and how both academia and industry have become more fluent in each other’s needs.[18:06] When researchers or tech transfer offices first reach out, a solid non-confidential overview helps make the conversation more productive.[19:02] Mark closes with his biggest takeaway for tech transfer professionals: communication, empathy, and active listening matter most in building relationships.Resources: AUTMSTEMCELL TechnologiesMark Fairey - LinkedIn
• A Father's Mission: How Danyelza Became a Life-Saving Therapy for Pediatric Neuroblastoma with Dr. Nai-Kong Cheung, Dr. Yashodhara Dash & Dr. Imke Ehlers-Surur 25.03.2026 37λ

  Sometimes the most powerful innovations come from the most personal places. This episode tells the extraordinary story of Danyelza (naxitamab), a life-saving immunotherapy for children with neuroblastoma, and how it earned a finalist spot in the AUTM Better World Project.What makes this story truly remarkable isn't just the science, although that's impressive enough. It's the unlikely partnership between a researcher who refused to give up, a tech transfer team that believed in an "ultra-orphan" drug when no one else would, and a father who turned his desperation into determination by founding a company to bring this therapy to other children facing the same devastating diagnosis as his daughter.Joining me are three key figures from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center who shepherded this breakthrough from lab bench to bedside: Dr. Nai-Kong Cheung, the Enid A. Haupt Chair in Pediatric Oncology and a world-renowned expert in antibody-based therapies for childhood cancers; Dr. Yashodhara Dash, Vice President of Entrepreneurship & Commercialization at MSK; and Dr. Imke Ehlers-Surur, Director of Technology Development & Licensing, who negotiated one of the most unconventional licensing deals in tech transfer.We discuss the 25-year journey from early mouse antibodies to FDA approval, why pharma companies initially passed on this technology, how regulatory designations like the rare pediatric disease priority review voucher changed the business case, and what happened when MSK had to decide which patients would receive limited drug supplies a moment Dr. Cheung compares to Schindler's List.Disclosure: MSK and Dr. Cheung have financial interests in Danyelza.In This Episode:[03:07] Dr. Cheung explains neuroblastoma is a devastating childhood cancer that spreads to bone, bone marrow, and other organs, making it one of the most difficult pediatric cancers to treat.[04:31] The "aha moment" came in the mid-1990s with antibody 3F8, when the team saw how these antibodies could light up tumors and eliminate metastatic disease.[07:00] The early mouse antibody got rejected by the body, so the team used protein engineering to create a humanized version that could arm the immune system without rejection.[08:14] Funding was one of the toughest challenges working with small budgets meant relying heavily on internal grants and parent groups like the Band of Parents.[09:31] Dr. Dash describes the commercial landscape as a "hard sell". It was an ultra-orphan market, and companies wanted small molecules instead of antibodies.[10:22] Persistence and entrepreneurial mindset kept the project going internally, applying for FDA designations and advancing the technology before finding the right partner.[11:01] Dr. Ehlers reveals Y-mAbs Therapeutics was founded by Thomas Gadd, the father of one of Dr. Cheung's patients, who built a company when other paths stalled.[12:07] Working with a founder who had unparalleled motivation but limited drug development experience meant MSK developed a forward-looking commercialization strategy.[14:28] The biggest difference in negotiating with a patient-family founder versus traditional VCs was making sure both sides were speaking the same language.[17:34] While MSK's Technology Development Fund provided some gap funding, the real story was philanthropic support from groups like the Band of Parents.[18:42] The conversation turns to FDA accelerated approval in November 2020, after running out of drugs and having to decide which patients would benefit a moment compared to Schindler's List.[21:12] To avoid conflicts of interest when helping form Y-mAbs in 2015, stepping out of the clinic completely became necessary to focus on research full time.[24:19] The regulatory designations were "transformative" orphan drugs given seven years of exclusivity, and the rare pediatric disease designation came with a priority review voucher worth $80-300 million.[27:18] Without these regulatory incentives, the startup may not have been fundable at all, though Thomas Gadd is noted as a "force of nature."[28:18] Y-mAbs' acquisition by CERB Pharmaceuticals means proceeds will flow back to MSK to fund future cancer research, a typical life cycle for early stage technologies.[29:41] Finding a drug or cure for a child so they can reach their full potential is described as priceless, with reflections on the anguish parents face.[30:58] A powerful story about a physician father whose daughter responded to the antibody but ultimately died from graft versus host disease, an experience that drives the mission.[34:05] When there's a convergence of mission and purpose with many people participating, that flame will continue to burn and inspire other tech transfer offices.[35:34] The conversation concludes with emphasis on the importance of philanthropy, the power of parents, and finding a mission-driven partner to achieve FDA approval.Resources: AUTMMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterThe Nai-Kong Cheung LabDr. Nai-Kong CheungDr. Yashodhara DashDr. Yashodhara Dash - LinkedInDr. Imke Ehlers-SururDr. Imke Ehlers-Surur - LinkedInDanyelzaAUTM Better World ProjectBand of ParentsY-mAbs TherapeuticsSERB Pharmaceuticals
• Tokenizing the Future: How Brilliance Is Creating a New Model for IP Ownership and Investment with Chris Hack and Geoffrey Smith 18.03.2026 34λ

  If you've ever thought that intellectual property was just for lawyers, patent professionals, and the occasional venture capitalist, today's episode might change your mind. We're talking about what it would look like if anyone, your neighbor, your parents, maybe even a seven-year-old with a wallet could find, understand, and invest in the technologies shaping our future. It's a big idea, and our guests are actively building the infrastructure to make it real.Chris Hack and Geoffrey Smith are the co-founders of Brilliance, a company working at the intersection of AI, blockchain, and decentralized finance to make intellectual property more accessible and investable. They're building tools that help non-specialists navigate patent landscapes using plain language search, connecting problem-solvers with the right opportunities, and experimenting with tokenization as a way to open royalty stream investing to a much broader audience than has ever had access before.In this conversation, we dig into what it actually means to democratize IP, how AI is changing the discovery and translation of patents for people outside the profession, and what role blockchain and smart contracts could realistically play in the future of licensing and royalty management. We also talk about the guardrails that need to exist, the misconceptions worth clearing up, and where Chris and Geoffrey see the biggest opportunities for tech transfer offices to dip their toes in without taking on a lot of risk.In This Episode:[02:28] Chris explains that democratizing IP is less about what it is and more about who can access it everyday people, not just specialists.[02:30] The biggest barriers to IP participation are readability, discoverability, and the high cost of creation, all of which technology can help address.[03:49] Geoffrey adds that beyond discovery and translation friction, there's a matching problem: universities want partners, companies want solutions, and no one has solved the bridge between them.[03:50] Brilliance built AI tools not for patent professionals, but for investors and entrepreneurs who need a low-friction first pass at understanding what a patent covers and why it matters.[05:13] The tools are not patent drafting tools, they're designed to expand the footprint of who engages with IP in the first place.[05:48] Chris and Geoffrey share their vision of making IP as conversational and familiar as real estate, starting with the people closest to us.[07:57] Tech transfer offices can list IP on Brilliance's repository for free, feeding their AI model and getting exposure to a new class of potential investors.[09:55] The conversation turns to tokenization and why NFTs in this context have nothing to do with digital art and everything to do with creating an immutable ledger for royalty contracts.[10:21] Chris breaks down how NFTs function in their prototype marketplace as pointers or receipts, not the underlying contracts themselves.[12:49] Brilliance's current model involves acquiring royalty streams, syndicating the funding, and owning the stream with a vision to move those transactions fully on-chain over time.[13:50] Smart contracts in this context aren't legal agreements, they're programmable rules that govern how a token behaves on the blockchain and direct payments to whoever holds it.[15:39] Blockchain explorers could eventually give municipalities and governments real-time visibility into where innovation is happening and where to direct funding.[16:34] The most common concerns Brilliance hears from institutions involve regulatory uncertainty and security, but Chris and Geoffrey treat those as design guidelines, not dealbreakers.[18:49] Compliance and governance aren't obstacles; they're the blueprint for building the right product, including AML and KYC requirements for the next marketplace iteration.[19:06] The team is watching the Genius Act and Clarity Act closely, hoping clearer federal guidelines will let them move with more confidence.[20:08] Brilliance focuses on non-dilutive funding by purchasing the economic interest in a royalty stream while leaving the underlying IP assets intact.[22:00] Guardrails for tokenized IP investment need to address regulatory compliance, asset vetting, buyer and seller transparency, and clear valuation frameworks.[24:00] For tech transfer offices wanting a low-risk entry point, the IP repository is free, requires minimal effort, and immediately connects listings to active investors using AI search.[24:30] The Connect platform matches problem-havers with problem-solvers using embedded AI, and was built specifically to solve the sponsored research visibility problem.[25:30] Chris addresses common misconceptions: NFTs are not speculative assets, smart contracts are not legal contracts, and blockchain does not require cryptocurrency speculation.[26:49] Geoffrey's son asked how to invest in robots and that question became their clearest articulation of what success looks like in five to ten years.[27:59] Most of the existing IP ecosystem patent attorneys, legal contracting, relationship-driven deals will remain intact. Brilliance is adding to it, not replacing it.[30:00] Chris shares a hope for the future: rewarding collaborative innovation over individual filings and reducing the siloing that slows down big breakthroughs.[31:28] For tech transfer professionals wanting to stay current, Chris recommends subscribing to Brilliance's newsletter as a curated starting point for AI and blockchain trends.[32:17] Geoffrey closes with a reminder that understanding the fundamentals of AI — not just the applications is the safest and most practical place to start.Resources: AUTMBrillianceThe LanternChris Hack - LinkedInGeoffrey Smith - LinkedIn
• The Industry Side of the Table: How Samsung Evaluates University Partnerships with David Chang 11.03.2026 27λ

  If you've ever wondered what's actually going on inside a company's head when a university comes knocking with a new technology, today's episode is for you. We're getting into the real mechanics of university-industry partnerships and what makes them work, what slows them down, and where the biggest opportunities are being left on the table.My guest today has lived this from just about every angle imaginable. He started his career in Ecuador, where he built the country's first university tech transfer office essentially from scratch. He then co-founded an ed-tech startup that turned profitable in its first year, led digital innovation licensing at Duke University, and now sits on the industry side at Samsung Research America, where he manages university collaboration programs and serves as a bridge between academic research and one of the world's largest tech companies.In this conversation, we get into what Samsung actually looks for when a university brings an opportunity forward, how they think about technology at different stages of readiness, and why the human factor in these relationships matters more than most people realize. We also talk about how fast-moving fields like AI are changing the rules of the game for tech transfer professionals, and he shares some really practical advice on how to position technologies so companies lean in rather than walk away.In This Episode:[03:12] David Chang shares how curiosity and a belief in innovation as an engine for economic development shaped his global career in tech transfer.[03:58] His path spans building Ecuador’s first tech transfer office, founding a startup, working at Duke, and now leading university partnerships at Samsung.[04:41] Early work in Ecuador showed how innovation ecosystems develop slowly through trust and incremental collaboration.[05:36] In emerging markets, university partnerships often begin with student projects before growing into research and commercialization efforts.[06:44] David explains how seeing both the university and corporate sides of tech transfer reshaped his perspective.[08:09] Relationships between tech transfer offices and industry partners often drive successful collaborations more than databases or programs.[09:47] Industry timelines can be tight, and lengthy contract edits can create friction in university–industry partnerships.[11:13] At Samsung’s LeapU program, three factors help advance a university technology: differentiation, clear milestones, and strategic fit.[12:08] Demonstrations that spark an internal “aha moment” can help companies rally support for a new technology.[13:27] Samsung evaluates proposals through a balance of technology push and market demand.[14:16] The company organizes partnerships by technology readiness through the START, LeapU, and LeapS programs.[14:58] START accepts early research ideas, while LeapU and LeapS rely on trusted relationships and invitations.[15:43] Strong university partners often begin with deep expertise in a specific research area.[16:29] Tech transfer offices add value by mentoring researchers on IP strategy and identifying entrepreneurial investigators.[17:52] Emerging technologies like AI and robotics are pushing companies toward new collaboration models.[18:41] Development speed matters in AI, where innovations can become obsolete within a short time.[19:36] Platform technologies with modular components are often easier for companies to adopt than standalone inventions.[21:18] Cultural factors such as flexibility and ongoing dialogue often distinguish the best university partners.[22:44] Researchers interested in collaborating with Samsung should highlight their research background and concrete collaboration ideas.[24:03] Combining technical depth with a strong business case can help tech transfer professionals position inventions more effectively.[25:32] Industry conferences like AUTM provide valuable opportunities to build long-term collaboration networks.[26:18] Reflecting on his career, David notes how working on both sides of tech transfer deepened his understanding of how innovation moves to market.Resources: AUTMSamsung Research AmericaSTARTLEAP-ULEAP-S
• Understanding Why AI Innovations Struggle to Scale in Healthcare with Adam Brickman 04.03.2026 28λ

  One of the biggest challenges in tech transfer isn't generating innovation — it's helping promising technologies move from early success into sustained, real-world use. That pattern shows up across industries, but today we're going to explore it through one fast-moving example: AI in healthcare. My guest is Adam Brickman, a healthcare innovation leader and part of the team behind Vega Health, a company focused on helping organizations identify, implement, and scale validated AI solutions. Adam brings a practitioner's perspective to a problem that's becoming harder to ignore. Technologies that show real promise, sometimes even strong clinical results, can still end up stuck at their site of origin, never reaching the patients and health systems that need them most. Vega Health was built to change that by creating a new commercialization pathway that connects proven AI models from leading academic medical centers and health systems with the community hospitals that make up the vast majority of healthcare in this country.We discuss why AI that works at one institution doesn't automatically translate somewhere new, and what it actually takes to bridge that gap. We talk about workflow discovery, the importance of testing models against local patient data before full deployment, and why user experience and staff buy-in are just as critical as the technology itself. Adam also shares what Vega Health looks for when evaluating whether an AI solution is ready to scale and has some pointed thoughts for tech transfer offices on licensing strategy in an increasingly crowded market.In This Episode:[02:29] Adam describes why many AI innovations remain trapped at their site of origin, even after demonstrating strong clinical or operational results. [03:10] The conversation breaks down four traditional commercialization paths and introduces Vega Health’s role as a fifth, scale-focused alternative. [04:05] A common assumption is challenged: the belief that only large academic medical centers can access or afford high-quality AI solutions. [04:48] Adam explains why success in one health system rarely translates directly, emphasizing that implementation context and workflow differences are critical. [05:32] Vega Health’s approach is outlined, including retrospective data testing to determine which models perform best in a specific patient population. [06:40] The typical AI purchasing process is critiqued, highlighting the risks of committing to full deployment before validating real-world performance. [07:31] The shift from “technology that works” to “technology that is used daily” is framed as a human and organizational challenge, not just a technical one. [08:12] Adam stresses that technology must adapt to clinicians and staff workflows rather than expecting already-burdened users to change behavior. [09:05] Validation is defined through live clinical deployment combined with peer-reviewed evidence, reducing the risks of first-time real-world testing. [10:18] Transparency gaps in AI documentation are addressed, with Vega Health advocating standardized reporting on training data, origins, and performance. [12:02] Adam reflects on the disconnect between innovation teams solving local problems and vendors pursuing only the most prestigious institutions. [13:15] The imbalance in vendor strategy is highlighted, noting that most AI companies target a small percentage of elite hospitals while community systems remain underserved. [14:10] Non-technical barriers take center stage, including alert fatigue, workflow friction, and the outsized importance of thoughtful UI and UX design.[18:18] A story of initial resistance illustrates how skepticism can soften when end users feel heard through collaborative workflow discovery. [20:31] Evaluation expands beyond model accuracy to include adoption metrics, clinical outcomes, administrative impact, and measurable return on investment. [22:23] Adam offers strategic guidance to tech transfer offices: determine whether an innovation stands alone as a company or functions better as a feature. [24:40] The risks of mandatory exclusivity are discussed, especially in a rapidly crowding AI market likely to experience consolidation. [26:05] The episode closes with a reflection on why scaling innovation is difficult, resource-intensive, and still deeply worth pursuing.Resources: AUTMAdam Brickman - LinkedInVega Health
• Understanding What’s Happening in Washington, D.C. and Why It Matters for Tech Transfer with Mike Waring 25.02.2026 31λ

  Policy conversations can feel distant until they land squarely on the desks of technology transfer professionals. Coming to you from the AUTM Annual Meeting in Seattle, we’re taking a closer look at what’s unfolding in Washington, D.C., and why it matters for research commercialization, patents, startups, and university innovation.My guest is someone many of you already know, Mike Waring. Mike has spent more than four decades immersed in Washington policy, beginning in broadcast journalism, then on Capitol Hill, and later as a lobbyist for a major trade association. For twenty years, he led the University of Michigan’s Washington office, working at the intersection of research, technology transfer, and intellectual property policy. He is a former AUTM Assistant Vice President for Advocacy, past chair of AUTM’s Public Policy Advisory Committee, and now AUTM’s Advocacy and Alliances Coordinator, helping guide engagement with Congress and federal agencies on the issues shaping our community.We explore the current mood toward universities and innovation, the bipartisan appetite for research and competitiveness, and the realities behind proposed policy shifts. We discuss the floated “innovation dividend” concept targeting university royalty income, developments at the USPTO, including Section 101 and PTAB practices, the status of PARA and PREVAIL legislation, and the ripple effects of SBIR/STTR authorization delays on university startups. Mike also shares practical guidance for tech transfer offices on working effectively with campus government relations teams, leveraging regional impact stories, and keeping policymakers connected to the real-world outcomes of university innovation.In This Episode:[1:38] Mike Waring describes the Washington mood, noting that tech transfer is often folded into broader debates about universities rather than treated as a standalone issue.[2:06] Even amid generalized skepticism toward higher education, members of Congress tend to maintain strong loyalty to institutions in their own states.[2:47] “All politics is local” becomes the strategic anchor, emphasizing regional and district-level framing when communicating innovation impact.[3:21] Innovation remains a bipartisan priority, with policymakers broadly aligned around jobs, new technologies, and competitiveness.[3:52] Congress moves toward near-full funding for NSF and NIH despite earlier proposals for deep cuts, reinforcing support for the research pipeline.[4:44] Sustained research investment is framed as essential for U.S. competitiveness with China and other global innovators.[5:25] The floated “innovation dividend” proposal raises concern, particularly the idea of capturing roughly half of university royalty income.[6:03] Pushback from the Bayh-Dole Coalition and other stakeholders highlights misunderstandings about how the government already benefits from research.[6:37] The absence of formal policy language is viewed as a cautiously hopeful sign that the royalty proposal may lose momentum.[7:35] Smaller tech transfer offices are identified as especially vulnerable to royalty revenue disruptions.[8:34] Data, transparency, and institution-specific context are positioned as critical tools in campus leadership discussions.[9:07] A constructive meeting with USPTO leadership signals renewed engagement with the higher-education community.[10:20] Section 101 and PTAB practices emerge as focal points for patent system improvements.[10:33] USPTO outreach shifts from regional buildings to more direct university-based engagement across the country.[12:39] PARA and PREVAIL legislation are reintroduced, targeting subject matter eligibility and PTAB reform.[13:08] Patent eligibility challenges are linked to difficulties in protecting diagnostics and therapeutics.[14:34] Committee dynamics and limited legislative runway underscore the difficulty of advancing complex patent reforms.[15:37] Even moving bills through the Senate is framed as laying groundwork for future Congresses.[16:44] SBIR/STTR authorization lapses disrupt new awards, creating uncertainty for startups and early-stage technologies.[17:09] Senate disagreements focus on limits for repeat grant recipients and geographic equity concerns.[18:04] Prolonged delays raise fears that agencies could redirect funds away from SBIR programs.[18:53] Tech transfer offices are encouraged to share real startup impact stories with senators to increase urgency.[19:55] Final appropriations outcomes exceed expectations, easing earlier fears of drastic science funding cuts.[20:26] NSF’s relatively small cut is described as a meaningful victory in a constrained budget environment.[21:10] The rejection of a 15% indirect cost cap is welcomed as a significant win for research institutions.[22:08] Tech transfer professionals are reminded they are not lobbyists but key partners to campus government relations teams.[22:56] Providing data, success stories, and regional economic impact becomes central to effective advocacy.[23:33] Chambers of commerce and economic development groups are highlighted as valuable third-party allies.[24:18] Inviting local members of Congress to innovation events helps humanize tech transfer outcomes.[25:11] Starting Hill meetings with “What do you know about tech transfer?” helps establish shared understanding.[26:19] Simple visuals explaining the innovation cycle are recommended to clarify commercialization processes.[27:09] Other Transaction Authority agreements and revenue-sharing clauses emerge as areas to monitor closely.[27:27] A proposed patent tax is dismissed as impractical and ultimately abandoned.[28:04] Key issues for 2026 include SBIR reauthorization, IP legislation, and upcoming appropriations.[29:08] Washington’s unpredictability is acknowledged, paired with the reminder to “never waste a good crisis.”[29:42] Policy threats are seen as catalysts that elevate tech transfer visibility within university leadership.[30:11] Knowledge transfer from faculty to students is reaffirmed as a core, often overlooked dimension of tech transfer.Resources: AUTMMike Waring - LinkedInProtecting Tech Transfer And University Innovation Funding With Mike WaringAUTM AdvocacyBayh-Dole CoalitionUSPTOUSPTO Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB)SBIR.govNational Science Foundation (NSF)National Institutes of Health (NIH)
• Be Brilliant Urgently, Advancing Parkinson’s Research Through Partnerships with Michelle Durborow 18.02.2026 32λ

  Breakthrough therapies do not begin with commercialization, yet without it, many breakthroughs never reach patients. That tension sits at the center of this conversation with Michelle Durborow, Vice President of Research Operations at the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, where she oversees grant administration and program operations for Aligning Science Across Parkinson’s (ASAP).Michelle explains how a patient-driven mission influences the foundation’s research funding strategy, particularly when it comes to early, high-risk science. From the outset, her team evaluates not only scientific merit, but also what each project makes possible, the decisions it informs, the risks it reduces, and how it contributes to the long-term therapeutic pipeline.The episode also takes a look at intellectual property. Michelle shares why MJFF views IP not as a barrier, but as a practical mechanism that enables investment, partnership, and ultimately patient access. By removing itself from IP ownership, the foundation reduces friction while still supporting responsible protection, alignment of incentives, and meaningful data-sharing practices.Michelle brings an operational perspective that resonates strongly with the tech transfer community. She speaks about bottlenecks, collaboration dynamics, and the importance of engaging earlier, before agreements become urgent and negotiations become strained. This strategic conversation offers lessons that extend well beyond Parkinson’s research.In This Episode:[01:50] Michelle outlines the Michael J. Fox Foundation’s mission to eliminate Parkinson’s disease while improving treatments for patients today.[02:16] Technology transfer is the pathway that moves discoveries from ideas into scalable therapies and diagnostics.[03:05] We discuss how patient impact directly connects to commercialization and translational strategy.[04:10] Why MJFF evaluates translation potential at the very start of proposal review.[04:55] Early-stage projects are assessed based on what decisions they inform and which risks they retire.[06:12] Intellectual property is positioned not as a barrier, but as a bridge enabling investment and development.[07:05] How patents provide confidence for partners navigating long, expensive R&D pathways.[08:02] MJFF’s choice not to claim IP ownership is highlighted as a friction-reducing strategy.[09:10] Michelle emphasizes that misaligned incentives not patents are what typically stall progress.[11:16] Bottlenecks such as prolonged MTAs and data-use negotiations are identified as major slowdowns.[12:11] She notes that unclear access terms and fragmented ownership frequently delay research momentum.[12:33] The importance of bringing experts into agreement structuring is underscored.[13:07] Michelle describes initiatives like the LURC2 Investigative Therapeutics Exchange and the LITE consortium.[14:02] Early engagement with technology transfer offices is presented as essential for smoother partnerships.[16:19] Collaboration lessons emerge: align goals early and define roles clearly across stakeholders.[17:10] She advocates running science and deal mechanics in parallel rather than sequentially.[18:02] Straightforward, repeatable agreement frameworks are credited with reducing negotiation friction.[20:15] Trust is described as something built through transparency about incentives and risks.[22:05] Michelle shares Michael J. Fox’s guiding principle: “purity of motives.”[25:51] She reflects on her career shift from lab science to research operations and systems design.[27:05] Michelle highlights MJFF resources, including guides, webinars, and the Buddy Network.[28:37] Looking ahead, she expresses optimism about precision medicine and biomarker-driven care.[29:55] Her closing message is to move faster together and keep patients at the center.Resources: AUTMThe Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s ResearchMichelle Durborow - LinkedInAligning Science Across Parkinson’s (ASAP)Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI)Targets to Therapies ProgramParkinson's Buddy NetworkParkinson’s IQ + You Events
• Rebranding for Impact, How URI Is Scaling Research Commercialization with Peter Rumsey and Allison Markova 11.02.2026 53λ

  Real-world impact doesn’t happen by accident. It takes intention, structure, and a willingness to rethink how research moves beyond the university. That’s the inflection point the University of Rhode Island Research Foundation has reached as it rebrands to URI Innovations. This shift signals more than a name change. It reflects a broader evolution into a campus-wide hub for technology translation, entrepreneurship, and strategic partnership.My guests today are Peter Rumsey and Allison Markova of URI Innovations. Peter serves as AVP of Innovation and Entrepreneurship. A former military officer with more than 30 years of private-sector business development experience, he has been instrumental in launching the Rise Up initiative supported by the U.S. Office of Naval Research. He was recently honored as a Career Achiever by Providence Business News for his work advancing innovation and economic development in Rhode Island and beyond.Peter also serves as a part-time instructor in innovation and entrepreneurship at URI, is Chair Emeritus at Leadership Rhode Island, and currently chairs the Rhode Island State Innovation Hub, or RI Hub. Allison Markova is Director of Technology Transfer and Innovation Partnerships at URI Innovations, bringing deep experience from her previous role as Director of Technology Transfer at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution.On today’s show, we explore what’s driving the rebrand, how initiatives like Rise Up are reshaping entrepreneurship training on campus and across state lines, and how URI is building momentum through its inaugural tech showcase. It’s a look at how early engagement, integrated IP strategy, and a strong regional ecosystem can turn research strength into sustained real-world impact.In This Episode:[03:15] The rebrand from URI Research Foundation to URI Innovations is explained, clarifying the shift from a confusing legacy name to a forward-facing identity centered on innovation and entrepreneurship.[04:24] Peter outlines why now was the right moment for change, pointing to URI’s R1 status, research growth, and the need to scale translation capacity.[05:48] A move beyond a patents-first mindset is emphasized, focusing instead on pairing intellectual property with commercialization to create true innovation.[07:09] Allison describes the brand promise of transforming discovery into impact through clearer pathways for faculty, students, and industry partners.[08:31] Early engagement becomes a central theme as URI Innovations reframes itself from a process office to a strategic partner in exploration and execution.[09:47] The three pillars of IP stewardship, venture development, and strategic partnerships are presented as integrated functions rather than silos.[11:06] Strategic partnerships range from sponsored research to startups embedding within new innovation centers and incubators.[12:26] Ocean and blue technology leadership takes center stage, with examples including Regent Craft and collaborations with the Naval Undersea Warfare Center.[16:26] Rise Up is introduced as a tri-state, Navy-supported initiative focused on dual-use technologies and workforce development.[18:47] The Defense Department’s dual-use philosophy is explained as startups must succeed commercially rather than rely solely on defense funding.[21:09] Undergraduate students tackle real defense and industry challenges using Steve Blank’s business model canvas and Bill Aulet’s disciplined entrepreneurship framework.[22:57] The Patents to Products program provides gap funding and mentorship to translate university IP into market-ready ventures.[24:42] Faculty Innovation Fellows integrate entrepreneurship tools directly into diverse curricula, from engineering to the arts.[26:26] The Ideation Studio invites students, faculty, and community members into a 10-week sprint from idea to MVP and live pitch.[28:59] Impact metrics go beyond disclosures and startups, tracking cultural change through increased early engagement.[30:33] Growth in pitch night participation from a handful of teams to double-digit ventures signals a shift in campus culture.[32:48] SWEPT, an AI-driven street-sweeping optimization platform, illustrates how student innovation can scale globally.[34:10] Juice Robotics demonstrates how affordable ocean sensing technologies can disrupt traditionally high-cost field operations.[36:11] The inaugural Tech Showcase positions URI alongside regional leaders and launches Rhode Island Startup Week.[38:31] A public goal to create funded startups each year reflects a bold, action-oriented approach to building momentum.[41:03] Allison shares why she joined URI Innovations, citing institutional commitment and cultural readiness for growth.[42:34] Tech transfer is reframed as an impact platform rather than a patents office, emphasizing storytelling and amplification.[43:50] Commercialization is positioned as complementary to scholarship, expanding researchers’ avenues for impact without compromising academic missions.[46:32] Looking ahead, Peter outlines the vision for a “Rhody Innovation Hub” built as both a physical space and an entrepreneurial ethos.[49:48] Closing advice includes just start, take shots on the goal, and don’t let perfection be the enemy of progress.Resources: AUTMThe University of Rhode IslandPete Rumsey - URIPete Rumsey - LinkedInAllison Markova - URIAllison Markova - LinkedInURI RISE-UPRIHubOffice of Naval Research
• How the Technology Transfer Handbook Was Built in Five Days with James Filpi, Joy Goswami, Michael Samardzija, and Alysa Khouri 04.02.2026 1ώ 1λ

  Technology Transfer: A Policy Primer for the Commercialization of Intellectual Property and Invention offers a practical policy and practice framework designed for use across institutions and jurisdictions. In this episode, we talk about how the handbook came together, including the decision to use the BookSprints methodology, a structured five-day collaborative process used to develop a complete policy and practice guide.I’m joined by four remarkable individuals who played central roles in the creation of the handbook. James Filpi, JD, from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Commercial Law Development Program, envisioned the project and championed its development at CLDP, an organization focused on strengthening legal and regulatory frameworks that support commerce worldwide. Joy Goswami, MBA, Director of Licensing and Commercialization Initiatives at the Research Foundation for the State University of New York and a member of AUTM’s leadership, brings experience from one of the nation’s largest research funding organizations and the broader technology transfer community. Michael Samardzija, PhD, JD, partner at Womble Bond Dickinson (US) LLP, brought a practitioner’s perspective from years of legal and IP work in the technology transfer space. Alysa Khouri, who facilitated the BookSprints process, kept the group moving and helped structure the work over the five days.I also want to acknowledge the broader group who participated in the BookSprint, including Edward Blocker of the Intellectual Property Owners Association; Davit Ghazaryan and Naira Campbell-Kyureghyan from the American University of Armenia; Priya Prasad of the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Commercial Law Development Program; Richard S. Cahoon of Cornell University; and myself, Lisa Mueller, from Casimir Jones. The handbook was developed at Caboose Farm near Camp David, Maryland, in August 2025, where the group was sequestered for five intensive days. Let’s dive into the conversation.In This Episode:[00:33] We just finished Technology Transfer: A Policy Primer for the Commercialization of Intellectual Property and will be sharing the collaborative process we used. [04:20] James Filpi explains the original vision for the handbook, including CLDP’s focus on giving policymakers and technology transfer managers a practical framework for building innovation ecosystems in emerging markets.[06:18] Alysa Khouri explains the BookSprints methodology, including its five-day structure and how the process moves from shared framing to writing and intensive cross-editing.[10:45] The advantages of overnight editing, illustration support, and working across time zones are discussed as part of the BookSprints model.[15:33] Michael Samardzija reflects on the intensity of the five-day sprint and how early uncertainty gave way to structure once roles, chapters, and editing rhythms were established.[17:46] Joy Goswami describes how different institutional and professional perspectives were aligned into a single, coherent handbook.[20:35] The decision to work in seclusion at Caboose Farm near Camp David is discussed, including how the setting supported focus and collaboration.[25:20] The day-to-day rhythm of the sprint is described, from early mornings and shared meals to writing, revising, and late-night editing.[31:56] The organization and scope of the handbook are outlined, including its progression from IP fundamentals to ecosystem development and emerging trends.[34:15] How policymakers, universities, tech transfer offices, startups, and investors can use the handbook is explored.[37:39] The decision to release the handbook under a Creative Commons license is discussed, along with why open access was critical to its use in training, policy development, and global adaptation.[43:23] Reflections on what made this BookSprint distinctive emphasize collaboration, shared purpose, and practical outcomes.[47:13] Participants reflect on what surprised them most about the process, including how quickly a coherent, high-quality handbook came together.[54:07] Next steps are outlined, including workshops, training programs, legislative drafting support, and international rollout plans.Resources: AUTMJames D. Filpi - CLDPJames D. Filpi - LinkedInJoy Goswami - The State University of New York Research FoundationJoy Goswami - LinkedInMichael Samardzija, Ph.D. - Womble Bond DickinsonMichael Samardzija - LinkedInAlysa Khouri - LinkedInTechnology Transfer GuidebookCommercial Law Development Program CLDPBookSprintsCreative CommonsCaboose Farm
• Meet AUTM’s New Board Members: Laura Schoppe and Patricia Stepp (Part 2) 28.01.2026 37λ

  Last week, we kicked off a special two-part series with three of the five women joining the AUTM Board of Directors in February 2026. Today, we’re completing that conversation with Laura Schoppe, Chief Commercialization Officer at TechPipeline, and Patricia Stepp, Assistant Vice President for Technology Transfer at Rice University.For listeners who may not yet be familiar with Laura and Patricia, here’s a brief look at their backgrounds. Laura Schoppe is the Chief Commercialization Officer at TechPipeline, and the founder of Fuentek, which she built into one of the world’s leading technology transfer consulting firms. Over the course of her career, Laura has helped universities, government agencies, nonprofits, and Fortune 500 companies proactively and strategically manage intellectual property, drawing on deep expertise in open innovation and IP portfolio management.Patricia Stepp is the Assistant Vice President for Technology Transfer at Rice University, where she leads the strategic planning and day-to-day operations of the Office of Technology Transfer. With a background in biomedical engineering, she brings a thoughtful, hands-on perspective shaped by her earlier work at Arizona State University’s Skysong Innovations, where she launched a diversity initiative focused on expanding commercialization opportunities.In This Episode:[03:05] Patricia reflects on her background in biomedical engineering and what continues to motivate her about moving discoveries from the lab into real-world impact.[04:45] The appeal of tech transfer is framed as constant learning, curiosity, and helping researchers see their work make a difference beyond campus.[06:10] Laura explains what motivated her to found Fuentek, reflecting on her early work in government and university environments and the gaps she saw in how technologies were being commercialized.[08:15] Building a fully virtual tech transfer consulting firm long before remote work was common proves to be a forward-looking decision.[10:30] Internal and external perspectives on tech transfer are compared, highlighting why diverse vantage points strengthen strategy and governance.[12:05] Board diversity is discussed as extending beyond identity to include professional background, institutional scale, and ecosystem role.[14:10] Returning to board service is driven by timing, experience, and the freedom to speak more candidly about systemic pressures.[15:45] AUTM’s role as a welcoming, formative professional community is cited as a major reason for stepping into board leadership.[17:30] Budget constraints, shifting federal funding, and rising caseloads are identified as ongoing realities for tech transfer offices.[18:55] The need to operate more strategically, including being more selective about what to patent, is emphasized as resources tighten.[20:05] Artificial intelligence is discussed as a useful support tool for routine tasks, but not yet a replacement for expert judgment.[21:40] Caution is urged against rushing AI adoption, with a reminder that many tools remain uneven or immature.[23:10] The importance of proactively educating policymakers about how AI is actually used in tech transfer is highlighted.[24:50] Looking ahead five years, the focus shifts toward becoming more proactive, efficient, and licensing-driven rather than reactive.[26:20] Strengthening industry and venture capital relationships is seen as essential to improving commercialization outcomes.[28:10] AUTM’s collaborative culture is highlighted as a defining strength that lifts the entire community.[29:55] Expanding participation in committees and board service is framed as key to AUTM’s long-term resilience.[31:15] Everyday technologies influenced by university tech transfer are cited as a reminder of the field’s broad, often unseen impact.[33:10] Advice for those entering the field emphasizes gaining industry experience and leaning into networking and shared learning.[35:05] Recharging outside of work ranges from creative hobbies to food, music, and film, underscoring the human side of the profession.Resources: AUTMLaura Schoppe - LinkedInTechPipelineFuentekPatricia Stepp - Rice UniversityPatricia Stepp - LinkedIn
• Meet AUTM’s New Board Members: Katie Butcher, Felicia Metz, and Maithili Shroff (Part 1) 21.01.2026 44λ

  Over the next two weeks, we’re doing something a little different, with a special two-part conversation featuring five extraordinary women who will be joining the AUTM Board of Directors in February 2026. To give us the space to really dig in, we split these conversations across two episodes, so we could spend more time on the perspectives, experiences, and leadership each of these new board members brings to the tech transfer community.In this episode, we’re joined by Felicia Metz from the University of Maryland Ventures, Maithili Shroff from the University of New Hampshire, and Katie Butcher from Northwestern University. Next week, the conversation continues with Patricia Stepp of Rice University and Laura Schoppe, founder of TechPipeline, bringing in additional viewpoints from both inside and outside the university setting.Katie Butcher brings an MBA from Notre Dame and a Master of Science in Law from Northwestern into her role, giving her a strong mix of business and legal experience that shapes how licensing and commercialization work at Northwestern. Felicia Metz is an Associate Director at University of Maryland Ventures, where her work spans patent prosecution, building and managing IP portfolios, and licensing strategy. Maithili Shroff is a Licensing Manager at the University of New Hampshire, an R1 institution, where she draws on her PhD training to support innovation and intellectual property commercialization, with a perspective shaped by working across a wide range of research areas. Together, these three leaders reflect the breadth of backgrounds, expertise, and lived experience shaping the future of tech transfer, and they offer a thoughtful look at why this moment matters for the profession and for AUTM’s leadership going forward.In This Episode:[00] This is a special two-part series introducing five women who will join the AUTM Board of Directors in February 2026.[03:26] Katie shares her path to tech transfer. She has an MBA and has worked in the legal field. She spent her first 20 years in the entertainment industry. [04:33] Her background was strong, but she also had a lot of learning on the job in science, technology, and learning. It's been an exciting adventure being in this field. [05:58] Felicia entered tech transfer as a student and unexpectedly built a long-term career in the field.[08:10] She explains how the profession has evolved toward specialization and complementary skill sets across offices.[09:41] Maithili describes how her PhD led her to question what happens to research after publication.[11:22] She shares how the AUTM fellowship and the collaborative culture of the community shaped her career path.[13:18] The panel discusses why tech transfer welcomes professionals from many backgrounds, not just STEM or law.[15:23] Curiosity, flexibility, and comfort with ambiguity are emphasized as essential traits for success.[16:49] Why running for the AUTM Board felt timely and meaningful.[18:42] The importance of representing non-STEM and operational roles in tech transfer leadership.[20:14] Advocacy, higher-education pressures, and why board service feels urgent right now.[21:20] We discuss funding uncertainty, policy shifts, and broader challenges facing tech transfer.[24:02] Budget constraints, staffing pressures, and the reality of doing more with fewer resources are explored.[26:09] The importance of telling the tech transfer story and demonstrating real-world impact comes into focus.[29:10] Data and metrics are discussed as tools for visibility, accountability, and storytelling.[32:18] Artificial intelligence enters the conversation as both a disruptive force and a potential support tool.[35:10] The panel considers how AI could improve efficiency without replacing human judgment.[38:00] The guests share their hopes for where tech transfer and AUTM could be in five years.[39:50] Felicia shares a personal story that underscores why tech transfer work truly matters.[43:47] Reflections on partnership, service, and shared success.Resources: AUTMKatie Butcher - Northwestern UniversityKatie Butcher - LinkedInFelicia Metz - University of MarylandFelicia Metz - LinkedInMaithili Shroff - University of New HampshireMaithili Shroff - LinkedInAUTM Better World ProjectPatents, Peer Review, and Policy: What Congress Needs to Understand Now with Kate ZernikeLessons From the WIPO-AUTM Knowledge and Technology Transfer Summit with Steve Susalka