Responsabile: James Hughes, PhD
The Institute’s Technology Transfer Office (TTO) promotes the transformation of scientific discoveries into innovative health solutions. Operating at the intersection of research, clinical innovation, and industry, the TTO supports the protection, development, and valorization of intellectual property generated within the Institute.
By combining scientific expertise with strategic Intellectual Property (IP) management and business development capabilities, the TTO converts the most promising discoveries into technologies, partnerships, and new ventures. Through these activities, the Office accelerates the path from laboratory research to clinical and industrial impact, ensuring that the innovations ultimately benefit patients and society.
Mission
The mission of the Technology Transfer Office is to support researchers and clinicians in turning innovative ideas and discoveries into practical applications that deliver clinical, social, and economic impact. This includes:
- Protecting intellectual property generated through research activities.
- Supporting the development and maturation of innovative technologies.
- Promoting collaborations with industry and investors.
- Facilitating technology transfer through licensing or the creation of new ventures.
By connecting scientific discovery with industrial development, technology transfer enables research institutions to contribute to innovation ecosystems and accelerate the development of new healthcare solutions.
Technology Transfer Process
The TTO guides the transformation of scientific discoveries into concrete applications in the healthcare sector.
Typical stages include:
- Discovery – Identification of potentially valuable scientific findings.
- Invention Disclosure – Formal reporting of the innovation to the TTO.
- Evaluation – Assessment of novelty, feasibility, and potential impact.
- Intellectual Property Protection – Patenting and other protective measures.
- Development and Partnerships – Advancing technology through collaborations with industry or investors.
- Technology Transfer and Impact – Licensing or creating new ventures to bring the innovation to market and benefit patients.
Responsibilities
The TTO is responsible for:
- Intellectual Property Management – Protecting and maintaining IP rights.
- Innovation Evaluation and Development – Assessing and supporting promising discoveries.
- Industry Partnerships – Facilitating collaborations with companies and investors.
- Licensing and Technology Transfer – Negotiating agreements and enabling commercialization of innovations.
Contacts
You can contact the TTO at tto@ircc.it:
- Researchers and external partners: For questions related to intellectual property, innovation, or collaborations with industry.
- Innovation disclosure: Early engagement with the TTO ensures IP can be protected before publication or public disclosure, preserving opportunities for development and commercialization.
- Industry partners: Companies interested in collaborating with Institute researchers through sponsored research agreements, joint development programs, or strategic partnerships are welcome to reach out.