Technology Transfer
Technology transfer is the process by which new ideas, innovations and technologies arising from the University are identified, protected, developed and commercialised. This process enables the output of research undertaken at the University to reach and benefit the wider world. This can also result in financial and other benefits to UWE, its staff and students. Our industrial partners also benefit similarly and it enables the Government and other Research Sponsors to maximise their return on investment in science and technology. Technology Transfer is an important component in Knowledge Transfer between UWE and external parties, with benefits to UWE including:
- Increased industrial collaboration
- Potential to access development funding for projects
- Identifying new research themes, projects and consultancies
- Developing business relevant teaching materials
- Opportunities for student placements and projects
A commercial partner will often only be willing to commit to the significant investment that is required to bring a technology to market (which is a costly process) unless there is patent or other protection in place, or there is scope for obtaining such protection in order to protect their market position. Not taking steps to suitably protect Intellectual Property could mean that potential products or services arising from research undertaken at UWE which could benefit society may remain unused.
Technology Transfer at UWE
The Technology Transfer Team assists academics to realise knowledge transfer by working closely with them to facilitate the development and commercialisation of technologies created at UWE. In particular the Team is responsible for:
- Identifying and evaluating technology of potential commercial value
- Protection, management and development of the University’s intellectual property portfolio
- Identifying and facilitating applications to sources of funding for development work
- Exploitation of intellectual property, through negotiating agreements needed for licensing, assignment and spin-out company formation
