The Miller School conducts cutting-edge bench, translational and clinical research, but because it is not a biopharma company, academic researchers must eventually hand off their innovative science to commercial peers to get it to patients. The Office of Technology Transfer (Tech Transfer) helps manage this handoff.

“It’s like a three-legged stool,” said Whitney Hough, Ph.D., M.B.A., director of Tech Transfer. “It’s science, business and the law, which is mostly about protecting intellectual property. We sit at the intersection of these three areas to figure out how to take something really cool that people make in the laboratory and bring it to the marketplace.”

Tech Transfer is one of several groups working under the U Innovation umbrella to guide research through the pipeline. The Coulter Center for Translational Research provides funding and mentorship to move innovative and disruptive science toward commercialization. The Launch Pad supports UM faculty, alumni and students who may want to start a company, and the ’Cane Angel Network can connect those groups with individuals interested in early-stage investment opportunities.

Tech Transfer mostly handles the business side of the equation: securing intellectual property (IP) rights, licensing them to drug or device companies, and setting up business agreements. Scientists are knowledgeable in the lab, but they may be inexperienced on the business side. Experts with Tech Transfer, the Coulter Center and the Launch Pad help faculty navigate complex choices.

“The fun part is engaging with faculty who are really excited and willing to learn and partner with us,” said Norma Kenyon, Ph.D., UM’s vice provost for innovation and chief innovation officer for the Miller School. “Even if it doesn’t get licensed, they learn how the process works and, as they continue their research, will have more opportunities.”

In some cases, understanding the nuances can produce major benefits. Most scientists want to patent an invention ASAP, but that may not be the best path.

“As soon as we patent something, the clock starts ticking,” Dr. Hough said. “Researchers feel protected, but those early patents can make the technology less appealing to industry. They don’t want to lose patent exclusivity, and revenue, too soon. Timing is everything.”

In addition to wearing their scientific, business and legal hats, Tech Transfer staff must attract business. Internally, they reach out to UM researchers to help them commercialize their ideas. Externally, they develop close ties with the business community so those ideas can find good landing spots.

Sometimes, a company or venture capitalist will see a poster at a conference or an article in a journal and reach out. Tech Transfer also works with a firm to market commercially promising IP, getting the faculty member and their technology in front of these companies. Ultimately, Tech Transfer is trying to build long-term partnerships on both sides.

“Companies occasionally reach out directly to faculty, and we encourage our people to bring us in on those conversations,” Dr. Kenyon said. “We can mentor them on how to engage with the company. If they give away the secret sauce, it’s not protectable anymore. We know this territory and can act as guides.”