Technology transfer: the leap to industry

Dr Steven Schooling Director of Physical Sciences, Engineering, Built Environment & Social Sciences at  UCLB explains some of the hurdles faced in commercialising the discoveries made in university laboratories in the latest Nature publication.

One of the most difficult aspects of moving a technology from academic concept to valuable product is crossing the chasm between early innovation and readiness for licensing. “There’s always been a relative shortage of cash at this early stage,” says Dr Schooling.  Many universities are providing internal funding to bridge this gap.

In January 2016, UCL launched a £50-million UCL Technology Fund, which can be used to support academics whose research has commercial potential, with funding for early stage proof of concept, licensing projects and new spinout companies.

Read the full article: Nature article

Links: UCL technology fund