The Bayh-Dole Act, introduced on 12 December 1980, allows institutions to own the patents on inventions created with federal funding and license the rights to those inventions to industry partners. This law is instrumental to technology transfer because it encourages the commercialization of federally funded research. To celebrate the remarkable growth of patenting and licensing activity by U.S. universities led by the Bayh-Dole Act, we mark December 12 as Technology Transfer Professionals Day.
To highlight the contributions of tech transfer professionals nationwide, AUTM—the leading association for technology transfer—shared a series of videos recognizing the individuals and offices advancing research commercialization. Among those featured is Brian Coblitz, Executive Director of the George Washington University Technology Commercialization Office (GW TCO), alongside Ekundayo Shittu, Professor of Engineering Management and Systems Engineering at GW.
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In the video, Coblitz reflects on the rewarding journey of transforming early-stage innovations into impactful commercial ventures. From napkin sketches to FDA-approved solutions, the GW TCO supports inventors every step of the way. Shittu highlights the office's hands-on support in securing patents and providing the resources necessary to move discoveries forward. By connecting researchers like him with resources that help advance innovations closer to the market, Tech Transfer Offices ensure that promising ideas don’t stay confined to the lab.
Coblitz’s leadership and Shittu's firsthand experience serve as powerful reminders of the importance of collaboration in the commercialization process. As we celebrate Technology Transfer Professionals Day, we recognize the passion, persistence, and progress that define the work of GW TCO and tech transfer offices across the country. Whether it’s a life-saving drug, a transformative device, or a groundbreaking software tool, these innovations have a profound impact that benefits not only the GW community but society as a whole.
Cheers to all tech transfer professionals who work tirelessly to bring innovations to life and shape the future!