IV. Research, Scholarship, and Creative Endeavors

Technology Transfer

As the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania's land-grant university, Penn State faculty and researchers have been involved in technology transfer for the economic and social benefit of the Commonwealth and the nation for 150 years. In pursuing the University's mission of education, research, and public service, faculty have long supported agriculture, industry, and community development. The senior vice president for research oversees the operation of several offices dedicated to ensuring that the benefits of University research are made available to the public.

Offices that can assist faculty in technology transfer and economic development activities include the following:

The Intellectual Property Office assists faculty in the identification and disclosure of University discoveries that might lead to patentable or licensable technologies. Faculty who have made a significant finding or discovery that may have commercial application should contact the Intellectual Property Office prior to disclosure in publication, to determine what steps may be necessary to protect the idea.

The Industrial Research Office helps faculty establish long-term, mutually beneficial relationships with industrial firms and stimulates industry/University cooperative research activities. Faculty wishing to create interactions between their laboratories and industry, or who are looking for industrial support for their research should contact the Industrial Research Office for assistance.

Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Central and Northern Pennsylvania is designed to support the development and application of advanced technology initiatives to strengthen the Commonwealth's economy. It provides funding and business support services to emerging technology-based companies and existing manufacturers within 32 counties in central and northern PA.

The Research Commercialization Office assists Penn State faculty and staff with the creation of new companies based on University research and technologies. It provides a University interface with multiple sources of early stage capital, identifies mentors and potential management team members, and coordinates with the Intellectual Property Office and the Industrial Research Office to identify and focus available expertise and resources.

Innovation Park at Penn State is comprised of 118 acres designated to provide space, access to Penn State researchers and facilities, and business support services that help companies transfer the knowledge within the University to the marketplace and to foster economic development.