Technology & Research Services, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, Scotland

Study Centre

Technology & Research Services, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, Scotland


Sample Programme

Programmes are tailored to suit the needs and wishes of individuals, where possible. Participants are to be selected on the basis of shared needs   


Objective

The objective of this visit is to help participants in reviewing and revising their promoting knowledge transfer procedures towards the good practice as performed in Heriot-Watt. The objective will be achieved through participant observation in senior meetings at Heriot Watt; working alongside the Technology Transfer Manager, the Legal Services Manager, the Intellectual Property Officer, and a Marketing Officer in senior level discussions.  During the visit meetings with other Scottish institutions and Science Parks engaged in Technology Transfer will be facilitated.


Timetable

Day 1    The visit begins with an introduction to Technology & Research Services (staff remits, strategy, goals). Followed by attendance at weekly management meeting to integrate and maximise the gains from research contract, patenting and commercialisation of research and IP.

Day 2    Attendance at meetings to evaluate technology.. Meeting with senior staff to discuss expectation of technology transfer and UK context; how this can be measured and evaluated. Some KTO funding mechanisms are explored.

Day 3    Working with IP Officer and Legal Services Manager to gain experience of how IP is tracked and protected through research contracts ( how IP ownership is retained) to facilitate the  creation of the company/licence.

Day 4    Attendance with Business Development Manager at meetings with SMEs in a variety of sectors.

Day 5    Discussions on support structure and policies for Technology Transfer, what works and what does not, and why. Review of Scottish context and applicability to your own university.