In the world of technology transfer, listening to diverse perspectives from across the globe isn't merely about understanding alternative methodologies; it's fundamentally about unlocking fresh ideas that can be integrated into our own organizations. 

Today, I have the pleasure of speaking with Yoichi Oshima, the Vice President for Government and Industry Relations at Tokyo Tech.

With a background in electronics engineering, Yoichi possesses extensive experience in both patent examination and semiconductor-related domains. His career has been marked by various significant roles, including professorships and directorships at esteemed institutions such as Tohoku University and the Japan Patent Office. 

He is a pivotal figure in promoting collaboration between academia and industry through Tokyo Tech's Open Innovation Platform. As an authority in semiconductors, intellectual property, and innovation analysis, Yoichi has contributed to numerous publications, including "Intellectual Property Overview for Engineers."

We discuss Yoichi's background and his insights on collaboration between academia and industry. We dive into the role of intellectual property in shaping the landscape of tech transfer, especially amidst today's rapid technological advancements. We also explore efforts to foster innovation within academic institutions and initiatives promoting diversity. We cover the current state of tech transfer and the impact of emerging technologies like AI and IoT. Yoichi also offers advice for tech transfer professionals.

In This Episode:

[02:07] How Yoichi transitioned from electronic engineering to his current field. After working in the electronic field, Yoichi became a patent examiner. He then moved on to innovation and where he is now. 

[04:33] Yoichi talks about the evolution of semiconductors and diversity and innovation. Diversity and networking is very important for innovation.

[06:04] He has extensive experience in patent examination. Yoichi was a patent examiner for 20 years.

[06:23] The role of IP in tech transfer. A patent is an open way to do transfers. We need to make the patent system more efficient.

[07:21] Recent industry needs aren't clear. There are challenges that companies face including social issues. To find solutions we need to do design thinking, ask the question, and prototype. 

[09:06] Innovation thrives on diversity of thought and experience. Yoichi shares examples of promoting inclusion in the tech transfer space. Collaborating with other universities helps Tokyo Tech get the space needed for their experiments.

[11:05] They've also tried to collaborate with women's universities who don't have adequate engineering departments. Working in a complimentary way has helped develop diversity between the universities.

[12:44] As a senior aide to the President at Tokyo Tech, finding ways to help semiconductor engineers be more efficient intersects with his work in government and industry relations. It's similar to a mentorship position.

[14:07] The current state of tech transfer and what Yoichi envisions for its future in light of emerging technologies. The more diversity the more chance to network in a global way. IoT and AI will help with cross communication more than ever before.

[15:35] Tech transfer advice includes being proud of networking. It's essential for innovation. 

[16:24] Key Insights from Intellectual Property Overview for Engineers. Yoichi wrote this book, because at the time there weren't quality IP resources for engineers. 

[17:08] Engineers are interested in how to make a patent for their idea. This book is basic knowledge of how to develop your idea before patenting. Patents are how to make your idea/dream come true. 

[18:39] Yoichi shares an upcoming project that he is excited about. There's going to be a metaverse technology showcase that anyone from around the world can participate in.

Resources: 

Tokyo Tech: Open Innovation Platform

Yoichi Oshima