This episode of AUTM on the Air is currently unavailable. In the meantime, be sure to check out one of our other interviews with patent and licensing professionals, innovators, entrepreneurs, and tech transfer leaders that focus on the issues and trends that matter most.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing industries across the board, from healthcare to finance, bringing with it new challenges for inventors, universities, and the IP community. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) recently issued new guidance on subject matter eligibility for AI inventions, providing much-needed clarity on how AI-related innovations can be patented. This update is vital for those working at the intersection of technology and intellectual property, especially in tech transfer offices and research institutions.

My guest today is someone deeply involved in shaping these policies: Derrick Brent, the Deputy Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Deputy Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). As Deputy Director of the USPTO, Derrick serves as the principal advisor to the Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the USPTO, Kathi Vidal. In his role, Derrick works to advance intellectual property policies that foster innovation, support startups, and enhance entrepreneurship nationwide.

We discuss AI subject matter eligibility guidance and its impact on the future of AI patenting. Derrick shares that the goal of this guidance is to promote clarity and consistency for both USPTO staff and external stakeholders in analyzing AI and critical emerging technologies. The USPTO aims to streamline the patenting process for AI-related inventions through clarity and consistency to patent subject matter eligibility. We also cover where stakeholders can submit comments and feedback on these guidelines. Additionally, we explore the tools and resources available to help everyone become AI fluent to navigate this rapidly evolving landscape. 

In This Episode:

[02:39] Derrick gives us a brief overview of the key updates in the USPTO's AI subject matter eligibility guidance. 

[03:02] AI presents one of the greatest technological innovation opportunities in a generation. It's transformative and an amazing Innovation opportunity.

[03:32] Order 14110 or the Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Development and Use of AI. Was used as a guiding principle.

[04:06] The guidance on the intersection of AI and IP, which could include patent eligibility issues related to innovation in AI and Critical Emerging Technologies was issued on July 17th of 2024. We are now in the middle of the comment period.

[04:12] There are three main parts to the guidance. The first part is to assist USPTO personnel and stakeholders in evaluating subject

matter eligibility for AI inventions. 

[04:38] The second part of it is to provide a new set of examples to assist in applying guidance. The third part is to address feedback from stakeholders and also to discuss the law and policy landscape.

[06:40] Derrick shares information about the previous guidance that led up to this new guidance.

[12:19] The comment period is going on now, so submit your feedback regulations.gov.

[13:22] They are going to stay current with developments through engagement with stakeholders and interagency conversations and collaborations.

[15:41] Derrick shares important tools like Site Experience Education Program (SEE) and the Patent Examiner Technology Training Program (PETTP). The USPTO also has an AI portal.

[17:53] How the guidance addresses distinguishing between abstract ideas and practical applications.

[18:36] There is a two prong analysis. If the first prong is met then you move to the second prong.

[22:53]  Use the tools with AI related patent applications. Be diligent and describe your invention as clearly as possible

[26:39] If you're interested in commenting, go to regulations.gov. The deadline for commenting should be in the portal.

[27:41] In spite of the type of IP, there is a consistency for the rules and guidelines of evaluation.

[29:49] Challenges include new and unprecedented inventions.

[30:56] Derick talks about government collaboration.

[33:14] AI is going to be a transformative problem solving tool.

Resources: 

Derrick Brent

Derrick Brent LinkedIn

Journey to the USPTO — Derrick Brent, USPTO Deputy Director

Regulations.gov

Site Experience Education Program

USPTO Artificial Intelligence

The Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) is a public-private partnership with centers in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. This episode dives into MEP and the MEP National Network—an initiative that has been a pillar of U.S. manufacturing, offering comprehensive solutions to manufacturers across the country and fueling growth and innovation in the sector.

Joining us for this discussion are two distinguished experts. First, we have Nagesh Rao, the acting director of the Manufacturing Extension Partnership at NIST. With over 25 years of experience across the public, private, and non-profit sectors, Nagesh brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. He previously served as Chief Information Officer for the Bureau of Industry and Security at the U.S. Department of Commerce, co-developed federal initiatives like i6 Green and Patents for Humanity, and led crucial technology efforts during the COVID-19 response.

David McFeeters-Krone is a commercialization and business development executive with over 25 years of experience at MIT, NASA-RTTC, Intel, and his own firm. He currently manages a Manufacturing Extension Partnership (OMEP) grant, engaging small manufacturers with the ManufacturingUSA institutes. David has reviewed numerous commercialization plans, founded two companies, and serves as an adjunct professor at Portland State University. He has established strategic R&D partnerships with organizations like the U.S. Air Force, NASA, and NIST, and was awarded the Federal Lab Consortium’s Outstanding Service Award in 2008.

In this episode, we’ll explore the MEP National Network’s role in supporting U.S. manufacturers, discuss innovative approaches to growth and competitiveness in the manufacturing sector, and gain valuable insights from Nagesh and David.

In This Episode:

[02:57] Nagesh shares how his background has led to innovation in the manufacturing sector.

[03:41] Nagesh started my career in technology transfer and commercialization back in 2002 at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.  

[04:29] Coming to the MEP program in 2023 was a full circle journey of his career. He worked in engineering, public policy, the US patent and trademark office, then worked in industry and the national security space.

[05:07] He now ensures evidence-based policy decision making at the federal level to support small and medium-sized manufacturers.

[07:10] For our country to be competitive from a national security perspective we need a robust manufacturing scene.

[08:20] Challenges include keeping up with software demands and having a talented technical workforce.

[10:39] The role of MEP in helping small and medium-sized manufacturers navigate these challenges. MEP has a 30-year history of being a trusted advisor. They meet these manufacturers wherever they are.

[11:46] Collaboration ensures new technologies make it from the lab to the production floor.

[13:29] MEP is perfectly positioned to help companies overcome hurdles especially with connections. The role of the MEP Advanced Technology Team.

[15:11] How the MEP supports tech transfer in the manufacturing sector and the role for tech transfer Professionals in this ecosystem. MEP National Network is a network of networks within a greater network of innovation ecosystems across the United States.

[16:10] Think of an MEP center as a hub of excellence for a company that is in the business of manufacturing.

[20:08] Navigating the complex balance between academia and industry for a mutually beneficial relationship. Communication, culture, and contact.

[22:54] David shares examples of successful partnerships that led to significant advancements in manufacturing technology. One of the examples he uses is 3D printed plastic parts to service forms for metal press part making.

[26:02] Measuring the success of the MEP manufacturer initiatives. 

[27:04] Common pitfalls manufacturers encounter when trying to bring about new technology. Lack of time and not realizing the value of partnerships are common.

[34:00] The government has done a tremendous amount of lift for many companies. Large companies know how to use the federal government.

[39:59] Predictions for where the MEP is going to go in the next 5 years.

[41:16] How making investments to move forward will help in the long run.

[46:49]  Advice for getting involved in an MEP Network and supporting local manufacturers includes beginning with connecting with your local center and going to the MEP website on NIST.gov. 

Resources: 

NIST MEP

MEP National Network

Nagesh Rao

David McFeeters-Krone

David McFeeters-Krone LinkedIn

In a world where groundbreaking discoveries often struggle to leave the laboratory, we explore how to transform scientific insights into real-world solutions. We’re focusing on bridging the gap between academic research and community impact.

My guest today is Dr. Kendra Stenzel, the Director of Innovation Talent at the University of Kentucky's Office of Technology Commercialization. With her unique blend of scientific expertise and business acumen, Dr. Stenzel is at the forefront of training the next generation of entrepreneurs and commercialization professionals.

Armed with a Ph.D. in Pharmacology and an MBA with a focus on entrepreneurship, she serves as a vital bridge between researchers and the Tech Transfer office. Her mission? To help researchers reimagine their work through a commercialization lens, encouraging them to "fail fast and pivot" – a mantra that's reshaping how academic innovations reach the market.

She's also a facilitator, helping innovators develop business models, secure funding, and navigate the complex path from lab to market. Her experience with the Kentucky Network for Innovation and Commercialization (KYNETIC) has given her invaluable insights into nurturing early-stage innovations.

Today, we explore Dr. Stenzel's perspectives on how researchers can frame their outcomes to maximize community impact, the challenges of commercializing academic research, and her vision for the future of innovation in academia. Let's dive into this conversation about turning scientific breakthroughs into tangible benefits for society. 

In This Episode:

[01:58] One of the main challenges with translating academic research into community impact is education.

[02:37] Common misconceptions and challenges include some innovators not understanding that their innovations aren't market ready or community ready and getting innovators to understand the word commercialization.

[04:20] The goal is beyond making money, it's having an impact on the community. Getting innovators to accept this reality has a lot to do with being intentional with the relationship.

[06:00] Balancing the academic focus on research and the need for commercialization includes relating with the researcher and investing in the relationship. Meeting the researchers in the lab and having the conversation about the science and defining the research and outlining the path forward.

[07:10] Barriers that prevent research from making it out of the university include lack of time, having all of the necessary qualifications, and having the knowledge and support.

[09:35] From the start they focus on things like the regulatory pathway, prototyping, and the facilities they have to use. Launch Blue has an innovation training program and programs that keep innovators engaged.

[10:46] Kendra talks about crucial elements of a successful education program for researchers.

[12:09] thinking outside the box and communicating that everyone can be an innovator. 

[12:53] Money to put towards proof-of-concept development is crucial. The education and framework brought to the innovator is also very important.

[14:56] Collaboration and cultivating partnerships that align with university goals and needs of the broader community.

[16:44] Measuring the long term impacts of intellectual property assets. Defining success goes back to understanding stakeholders. They do have quantitative metrics to protect intellectual property assets. Kendra likes to look at the qualitative metrics and the innovator and the team.

[19:16] The MBA that Kendra is getting has really taught her to think in terms of strategy.

[20:43] Advice includes meeting innovators where they are and keeping relationships first.

Resources: 

Kendra Stenzel Director, Innovation Talent Development UK

Kendra Stenzel University of Kentucky

Kendra Stenzel LinkedIn

This episode of AUTM on the Air is currently unavailable. In the meantime, be sure to check out one of our other interviews with patent and licensing professionals, innovators, entrepreneurs, and tech transfer leaders that focus on the issues and trends that matter most.

Tech Transfer professionals have a lot to stay on top of, including the legislative and legal landscape in Washington, DC. My guest today is Jeffrey Depp, who shares his expert knowledge on the current cases we should be aware of.

Jeffrey is a registered patent attorney with extensive experience in intellectual property and innovation policy. His diverse background spans university Tech Transfer, the pharmaceutical industry, law, and the federal courts. Currently pursuing his PhD at the University of Pittsburgh, Jeffrey applies an Austrian economics lens to U.S. innovation, bringing a unique perspective to our discussion.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Jeffrey consults on biopharmaceutical innovation for the Center for Strategic and International Studies. His commitment to shaping policy is evident through his active involvement in various professional organizations, including his current membership and former role as chair of the Public Policy Legal Task Force at AUTM.

In today's episode, we'll explore Jeffrey's rich background and how it influences his current work. We'll provide an overview of this year's comment requests from Washington, DC, discuss the administrative landscape affecting Tech Transfer, and examine recent Supreme Court decisions, including Loper Bright v. Raimondo and SEC v. Jarkesy, and their implications for the tech transfer field. 

We also look at key decisions in the federal courts and Congress. Jeffrey breaks down these cases and explains their relevance to us, while also sharing tips for tech transfer professionals to stay informed.

In This Episode:

[01:57] Jeffrey works with a number of organizations in DC trying to promote the progress of science through technology and commercialization.

[02:20] He has real world experience and formal training. He spent many years in the pharmaceutical industry and in university technology transfer. He has an MBA. He's a registered patent attorney. He's working on a PhD dissertation focused on the nature and causes of American innovation from an Austrian economics perspective.

[03:50] We learn why it's important for tech transfer professionals to stay updated on the legislative activities happening in DC. Staying on top of legislation is just another job that tech transfer professionals have to do.

[05:21] Bad policy can devour even the best of science. This is why Jeffrey has gotten involved to help great technology move forward instead of being stifled by bad policy.

[06:47] We try to keep our eye on three buckets, the administrative law side of it, what's going on in Congress with legislation, and of course, what the courts are doing.

[07:28] This year has been extremely active with nine or so comments requested from agencies.

[08:13] The USPTO has put out guidance about who is the inventor when it comes to AI technologies. There has to be sufficient human inventorship in order to be patentable.

[10:05] The patent office asked for comments about how to promote more innovation in the marketplace. There were also fee increases.

[14:44] Jeffrey talks about more of the comment request issues this year. 

[17:31] There's another one about the impact of AI on prior art. The human being needs to be paramount in inventorship.

[22:29] The last one is about the experimental use exception.

[24:43] SEC v. Jarkesy referenced the Oil States case which did directly implicate intellectual property issues.

[28:19] Jeffrey talks about the private rights public rights doctrine of patents.

[29:01] Jeffrey talks about Loper Bright v. Raimondo.

[30:45] We discuss pending cases in the Supreme Court that we should keep an eye on including Cellect, LLC v. Vidal.

[31:21] This case is very important for tech transfer professionals to be following. The case establishes binding

precedent that a terminal disclaimer cuts off any extended patent term granted through PTA. 

[38:28] Jeffrey shares his thoughts on some of the key decisions in the federal circuit court. Including the LKQ Corp. case which affects design patents.

[41:29] We also talk about University of California v. Broad Institute Inc. regarding CRISPR technology. This is important because gene editing is only going to continue to grow in creating health breakthroughs.

[45:28] We talk about the legislative side. Congress has introduced multiple patent bills including the Prevail Act, the Patent Eligibility Restoration Act, the Restore Act, RALIA, and the Balancing Incentives Act.

[46:16] Problems with the patent system include things that make patents unreliable and things that make patents uncertain.

[53:47] Jeffrey talks about the Countering Communist China Act and the Invent Here, Make Here Act.

[58:42] We discuss the FTC's move to ban non-compete agreements and how this could affect technology transfer offices.

[01:02:53] The best way to stay on top of things is to compartmentalize it in your mind and keep an eye on what's going on in the courts and the federal circuit. The Judiciary Committee has a subcommittee focused on IP. Also focus on the USPTO and the NIH.

Resources: 

Jeffrey Depp LinkedIn

SEC v. Jarkesy

Loper Bright v. Raimondo

LKQ Corp case v. GM

Countering Communist China Act

Invent Here, Make Here Act

Innovation is at the heart of both Tech Transfer and human progress. It's in our nature to seek better ways of implementing ideas, but historically, innovation hasn't always received the scholarly attention it deserves, despite technology being integral to our lives—think of the 250,000 patents in a single smartphone. 

I’m thrilled to have Joy Goswami, Senior Director of Corporate Engagement at Johns Hopkins University, here to talk about the role of Technology Transfer in fostering innovation, distinguishing between invention and innovation, and exploring how tech transfer professionals categorize, assess, and commercialize new inventions.

We'll discuss how the invention process begins with disclosure, followed by classification into sustaining, disruptive, and breakthrough technologies, among others. Disruptive innovations, in particular, create entirely new markets. We'll also touch on inspiring stories, like the invention of a glass keyboard for people with disabilities that became part of the iPhone, and a nurse's passion that led to a startup for wearable simulators.

As we look to the future, trends such as interdisciplinary research, entrepreneurship, and emerging technologies like AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, and biotechnology will shape the landscape of innovation. Join us to get an inside look into the power of innovation and the bright future of Tech Transfer.

In This Episode:

[02:10] Innovation is the cornerstone of what Tech Transfer professionals do. It's also the cornerstone of human development in general. It's our nature to seek new and improved ways of putting ideas into action.

[03:02] Innovation hasn't always received the scholarly focus that it deserves. Yet, technology is everywhere. There are 250,000 patents in our cell phone alone.

[05:02] Today we're going to talk about Technology Transfer in the role of innovation in Technology Transfer.

[05:16] The distinction between invention and innovation. Inventions are solutions to problems. Innovation is a commercially successful use of invention.

[06:22] The starting point is an invention disclosure.

[08:06] We chop up the invention disclosure in different segments and plug it into an assessment knowledge canvas. 

[08:32] There are three broad categories to understanding innovation: understanding the innovation, the classification of the innovation, and additional details broken into 10 different subparts.

[09:32] We want to take the innovation from the point the inventor has given us to commercializing.

[10:14] Four kinds of patent protection including process, composition of matter, articles of manufacture, and machines.

[11:23] Classification also has four classes including sustaining, discontinuous, disruptive, and breakthrough technologies.

[12:16] Disruptive is critical, because it's the one that creates new markets.

[13:36] Tech Transfer professionals have a lot of responsibility with categorizing the Invention from the beginning and making sure that it has a value proposition.

[14:11] Crucial mindset for academic researchers to foster innovation. Academics are moving from doing the research and sharing knowledge to research that has an impact on society.

[17:35] There are translational researchers who love working in the translational space. They can be used as ambassadors to coach the next generation. Education about the process and benefits of tech transfer is crucial for innovation.

[19:32] Joy shares some personal experiences that highlight the power of mindset when it comes to innovation.

[21:19] The story of a keyboard developed on glass which was meant for people with disabilities. The inventors were able to sell the patent for this to Steve Jobs and it was integrated into the iPhone.

[23:03] The impact and passion that these inventors had led to success.

[24:28] A nurse who developed a wearable simulation device for training healthcare practitioners was so passionate that it became a startup called Avkin that makes wearable simulators.

[25:56] Johns Hopkins University is one of the oldest universities established in 1876. It was also one of the first universities to have research as a component. They now do $3.4 billion dollars of research. They get more than 400 disclosures a year.

[27:21] The Tasty Tape is a tape that holds a burrito together. It's simple and yet it was complicated. Hopkins also developed the targeted real-time early morning system or TREWS. 

[28:41] Saccharin, rubber gloves used by surgeons, and the smart tissue autonomous robot STAR have been developed by Johns Hopkins.

[29:41] Exciting trends in academic transfer that boost innovation include integrated technology in the process. The world's getting smaller and everything's at a global scale.

[32:11] There's an increased focus of interdisciplinary research not just in the US but globally. Universities are also developing consortium models. There's also a growing emphasis on entrepreneurship and startup culture.

[35:07] Practical steps to create a culture that encourages and awards innovation amongst faculty and researchers. They need to be treated with a little TLC, because they do multi-functional work with education and research. We also need to continue to educate the faculty members.

[38:53] Emerging trends and technology shaping the future include AI and machine learning. Other emerging trends include cybersecurity, biotechnology, genomic space, and personalized medicine, and CRISPR technology. 

[40:23] 3D printing, electronics, healthcare, energy manufacturing and data science are also sectors to watch.

[41:24] Things are going to become more complicated and sophisticated as we move forward.

Resources: 

Joy Goswami, Senior Director of Corporate Engagement at Johns Hopkins University

Joy Goswami LinkedIn

Joy Goswami Twitter

Partners in Discovery: Unlocking the Potential of Research Collaborations With Gaylene Anderson

Let’s take a deep dive into innovation in the health sector and the role that university research plays in this sector. Joining us today is Richard Gannotta, a seasoned healthcare executive with a remarkable career spanning top academic and public health systems. 

From leading UC Irvine Health to shaping policy at NYC Health + Hospitals, Rick's expertise is unparalleled. As managing partner of Washington Square Advisors, he continues to drive innovation in the medtech and biotech industries. He's also a dedicated educator at NYU and the host of the Healthcare Nation podcast.

In this episode, we explore the future of healthcare and technological development. We'll explore how telehealth is transforming patient care, the groundbreaking potential of AI in medicine, and the critical role of intellectual property in driving innovation. 

We'll also discuss the evolving landscape of healthcare delivery, the impact of new technologies like wearables, and the policies needed to support this exciting transformation. Join us as we uncover the trends shaping the future of health and wellness. 

In This Episode:

[02:16] Rick shares his amazing career journey. According to Rick, he's just a kid from Brooklyn who caught a couple of good breaks along the way.

[02:46] He's always been interested in technology, science, and medicine.

[03:17] He ended up dropping out of high school and becoming a nurse's aide and then an LPN. This was a big break for him. It eventually led to nursing school, becoming a nurse practitioner, and getting a degree. He now has an MBA and a doctorate in healthcare policy.

[04:33] Starting out working at the bedside was invaluable information for his further career. He's also always taught academically. His firm Washington Square Advisors is a boutique firm navigating the intricacies of the healthcare sector.

[06:26] Career paths aren't linear. They can have many twists and turns.

[06:54] Rick believes that technology is the new biology. It will be equally important for the health and wellness of society and individuals.

[08:03] Validating ideas and whether the innovation is addressing the issue.

[10:17] Three Factor Framing. There are three factors that are the key components of disruptive innovations. The first Factor F1 is really market eligibility or ideation. Is there demand?

[12:14] F2 is the governing process. The environmental gating conditions that would slow things down or speed them up.

[12:56] F3 is the out of field variable or the X factor. It's an approach or technology commonly used in a different sector.

[14:05] These can be applied to idea generation, brainstorming and more.

[16:15] Rick talks about Telehealth and AI revolutionizing healthcare. There are incredible opportunities to change the game.

[18:02] Rick predicts a convergence of The Internet of Things and medical technology.

[20:14] The first rule at Washington Square Advisors is to seek to understand your client's challenges. Work closely with the teams to understand the philosophy.

[23:18] Rick talks about navigating IP challenges working with startups in the healthcare sector. It's essential to secure your patent early.

[27:44] Governmental policies are very important when you're thinking about startups.

[28:19] Can we make healthcare better, more convenient, and more accessible using technology? Another big issue is the medical professional shortage.

[32:46] Strategies for tech transfer offices include having strong relationships with industry partners, having your finger on the pulse of what's happening, and understanding the resources that you need to provide.

[34:33] Partnership agreements and joint ventures make a lot of sense.

[35:16] Pitfalls include not fully understanding or underestimating hurdles such as regulatory issues. Inadequate market understanding, fit, and validation are also concerns that need to be addressed.

[36:43] All of the processes begin with education.

[37:47] Rick's advice includes focusing on understanding the real clinical need and the why.

Resources: 

Richard Gannotta NYU Wagner

Richard Gannotta LinkedIn

Healthcare Nation Podcast

Navigating the intricacies of university-industry partnerships is more important than ever in an era when colleges increasingly see their intellectual property portfolios as attractive sources of prospective revenue. Today, I'm thrilled to have Donald Siegel join us to talk about university-industry partnerships, as described in his book The Chicago Handbook of University Technology Transfer and Academic Entrepreneurship.

Don is a Foundation Professor of Public Policy and Management at Arizona State University and Co-Director of the Global Center for Technology Transfer. With a remarkable career that includes serving as Dean of the School of Business at the University at Albany, SUNY, and editing prominent journals such as the Journal of Technology Transfer, he has unrivaled knowledge of university technology transfer and academic entrepreneurship.

Don and his co-editors have prepared a thorough guidebook that synthesizes cutting-edge research and gives critical insights from experts across many fields. Today, we'll look at key themes from the book, including the evolution of technology transfer, intellectual property management systems, and how to foster an entrepreneurial culture within universities.

In This Episode:

[02:14] All of the authors are academics that have been studying Tech Transfer. They've seen the field evolve as an academic field. It's a global phenomenon and people in multiple disciplines have been studying this field.

[03:06] They decided to approach the University of Chicago Press and pitch their idea. It was a difficult sale, because they've never done a handbook or anything on tech transfer.

[04:36] It's a collection of leading edge research on the topic.

[05:04] One of the chapters is an entrepreneur's guide to the university. Open innovation is one of the important concepts.

[06:40] One of the major changes that Don has seen are people with business and entrepreneurial experience in the Tech Transfer office.

[07:39] They've moved beyond licensing and patenting with a greater focus on entrepreneurship. 

[09:22] There's also a much greater appreciation of the role of technology and economic development.

[11:20] Don talks about how AUTM has changed and how they have more real world professionals with business experience. There's a strong entrepreneurial component to what Tech Transfer does.

[12:44] Tech Transfer offices also play a very important role in educating faculty and administrators about the value of Tech Transfer.

[15:01] Social returns to basic research maximize the value to the economy and society.

[16:55] Tech Transfer offices are under resourced. One of the problems is stakeholders don't understand the value.

[19:39] Don talks about using business school students to get engaged with Tech Transfer.

[26:20] We need to hire university leaders that value Tech Transfer and understand how important it is.

[28:10] Prosocial Tech Transfer and defined ways of measuring it. Interviewing and surveying faculty to understand what motivates them.

[30:53] Psychological issues and the importance of champions and leadership. Tech Transfer role models are important.

[36:47] How there is a larger interest in Tech Transfer abroad. There's a much stronger international presence.

[42:09] Immediate actions include more successful marketing of Tech Transfer within the university. The responsibility falls on the leaders. Academic entrepreneurship and messaging.

[44:39] It's also been difficult to get minorities interested in Tech Transfer as a profession. 

[47:37] The three key takeaways that Don would like to highlight includes whoever manages the university needs to think of Tech Transfer as a major strategic issue.

[48:58] Tech Transfer strategy asking whether it's a priority. Set institutional goals and priorities. 

[49:28] If it is a priority, the resources should reflect that.

[50:16] Which modes of tech transfer should be stressed? How should it be rewarded?

[53:39] Strategies for stressing startups.

Resources: 

Donald Siegel ASU

The Chicago Handbook of University Technology Transfer and Academic Entrepreneurship

VentureWell

Have you ever thought of storytelling as a powerful business tool? In the fast-paced world of tech transfer and startups, it absolutely is. Today's episode dives deep into the importance of storytelling – what it is and how it can be your secret weapon.  

We'll be joined by Otto Pohl, a storytelling guru with a fascinating career path. Otto's a former journalist published in major publications, a seasoned entrepreneur with four startups under his belt, and a communications expert for startups. He now uses his unique blend of skills to help universities translate their groundbreaking research into successful products with real-world impact.

Curious about the magic of storytelling in business? We'll learn how Otto helps tech transfer offices craft compelling narratives that resonate with investors, partners, and anyone who needs to understand the incredible work happening at universities. 

But storytelling isn't just about making things sound good. We'll also explore the line between a captivating pitch and empty promises. Otto will share his insights on the Pohl Pyramid and other powerful tools to ensure your story is not just exciting, but honest and builds genuine interest. 

Get ready to unlock the power of storytelling in your business! We'll discuss Otto's amazing career journey, the science behind why stories resonate, and common mistakes to avoid. This episode is packed with actionable tips and insights you won't want to miss.

In This Episode:

[02:09] Career rewrites and how journalism and entrepreneurship fit into one bucket for Otto. 

[02:43] After college, he moved to Russia to work as a photojournalist. He was a New York Times Bureau photographer. 

[03:17] He also discovered so many business opportunities that he quit his job to found three companies in Moscow.

[03:34] He rotated between entrepreneurship and journalism moving to several different countries.

[04:11] We learn how stories and business meet each other.

[06:21] Storytelling is deeper and bigger and more intertwined with everything we do than most of us realize. It fundamentally creates connections between events.

[07:37] From a business perspective, the story explains why your company has meaning.

[10:54] Storytelling and the startup context or pitching. Where is the line between vision and delusion?

[12:05] When we pitch something it's a story about what we think we can make happen.

[13:11] Lying about what you already have is called fraud.

[13:35] transfer professionals need to figure out what their technology can do in their portfolio and make sure there's a story about how this thing can change the world, but do it in a way that you feel will pan out.

[14:17] Otto breaks down what good storytellers do well.

[15:05] Focus on the why.

[15:31] Otto talks about the Pohl pyramid or multi-layer of why. A good storyteller knows which level of why they want to address.

[16:54] Tech transfer professionals should care about storytelling because it will help them create a better impact.

[19:05] Shining the light on your invention allows the pyramid of benefits to cascade and unfold.

[20:03] Otto shares examples of how finding and telling the right story and why your research matters has helped tech transfer offices. 

[26:46] The story is what makes a new company and its product sparkle.

[27:09] Otto shares how to communicate with different stakeholders. Work from the result backwards.

[29:45] Common mistakes tech transfer offices and early stage startups make with storytelling. The academic mindset and the business mindset aren't always on the same page.

[32:39] Storytelling is still a caveman exercise satisfying fundamental human needs.

[36:08] Storytelling isn't bad, we need to shift to a customer mindset, and embrace business not academic communications.

Resources: 

Otto Pohl

Otto Pohl Core Communications

Otto Pohl LinkedIn

Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind

Promote your TTO more Effectively” – August 13, 2024 – 12 pm EST

Thank you Scorpius BioManufacturing for sponsoring this episode of AUTM on the Air. Learn more at: scorpiusbiologics.com