Reaping the benefits of bioscience research results
The biotechnology market relies heavily on the continuous introduction of new products and technologies from science. This necessitates the careful valuation and commercialisation of scientific results. Scientists therefore need to be trained on how to efficiently exploit their research results and inventions through spin-offs and out-licensing. The main objective of the EU-funded ‘Intellectual property rights and assets management course’ (IPRAM) project was to raise awareness among scientists on how their research can be protected and commercially exploited. Eight one-week lectures on intellectual property rights (IPR) were given in many cities throughout Europe and covered various case studies from the life sciences sector. A booklet containing the content of the courses and other relevant information was provided on the IPRAM webpage. Additionally, the consortium formed a network of expertise to offer advice on IPR and patenting issues in the academic community. The IPRAM project provided scientists and technology transfer officers with the necessary knowledge on how to best disseminate their results for commercial exploitation. These courses are expected to stimulate technology transfer from academia to industry and aid the development of new sustainable companies in the biotechnology sector.