A lot of the best research goes on in universities. Sometimes, research teams realise they’ve created or discovered something with a wider application. Technology (tech) transfer officers – also known as “knowledge exchange” practitioners – work with research teams and their advisers to commercialise these ideas.
Last Updated: November 1, 2024
Manage the process of turning ideas and research results into commercial products or services. This involves detailed discussions with research teams to evaluate the market potential of an opportunity, marketing to industry and investment firms, and using IP assets to underpin opportunities for licensing and venture building.
Technology transfer officers can also get involved in complex “due diligence” processes on IP assets, to determine if there is merit in applying for protection (with support from patent and trade mark attorneys); to determine ownership of the IP; and to understand any freedom to operate issues and funding problems and ensure that all contributors are properly acknowledged. Depending on the university or other research establishment you work for, you may also be responsible for drafting contracts, including NDAs (Non-Disclosure Agreements), collaboration agreements and licences.
The role is likely to involve:
- Evaluating new technologies developed in research institutions or companies to determine their market potential.
- Managing IP portfolios, including patents, to protect and commercialise innovations.
- Negotiating licensing deals with companies to bring new products or services to market.
- Collaborating with researchers and entrepreneurs to develop commercialisation strategies.
Typically, in universities or university-affiliated organisations, or in other research institutions; sometimes in specialised technology transfer offices. Some private sector companies involved in research and development, venture capital firms, business analysts or IP management consultants may also employ technology transfer specialists.
Usually a science degree, but a legal or business qualification (particularly one that’s focused on IP) may also work. Often a background in science or engineering is essential due to the technical nature of the job. Legal knowledge is important, particularly around IP law and licensing agreements. Business acumen is crucial when it comes to commercialising technologies and forming partnerships with industry – but it can be acquired through experience on the job.
Training is largely done on the job and through networking and attending courses and seminars. The professional body for knowledge exchange in the UK is PraxisAuril, which offers lots of training courses.
Some roles may require further qualifications in patent law, IP management or business, for example an MBA or a PMP (Project Management Professional) certification.
This can be a very interesting and varied role; you are always learning about cutting edge research and technology and will rarely see the same opportunity twice! You work at the intersection of science, law and business, and forge connections with and learn from a wide range of people in the public and private sectors. Being part of a deal that has commercial impact, and helping to bring useful new ideas to market, is a very good feeling.
- The often difficult process of commercialisation, which can be slow and bureaucratic. There are lots of internal and external stakeholders and policies to comply with, often making technology transfer a long-winded affair.
- Due diligence in particular can be very complex, requiring input from lots of people, sometimes against tight deadlines.
- There can be many challenges in negotiating and finalising deals, especially when balancing academic and commercial interests.
- Working in a university setting won’t be for everybody.
Look for roles directly at universities, research institutes or specialised tech transfer firms. Many job postings can be found through academic networks or organisations involved in IP and innovation management.
The PraxisAuril website also lists vacancies in these and related roles. Or you can check on recruitment platforms such as LinkedIn.
Note that there is a wide range of roles similar to technology transfer/knowledge exchange: they may be called different things, but all will involve helping people make the most of their IP, manage it effectively and turn it into commercial success.