I was initially motivated to join the Commercialization Academy to better understand the factors influencing science beyond academia and the evaluation process determining which ideas are chosen for commercial development. I hoped that by gaining that knowledge I would improve my experimental decision-making and be better prepared for biotech research in a commercial setting.
Research scientists are often critiqued for having a narrow focus and limited experiences outside the lab, which together hinder their production of scientific advances that are clinically relevant and capable of providing real-world benefits. My work with the technology transfer and technology development teams at JHTV provided me with a first-hand understanding of how commercial markets, existing intellectual property, and academic developments combine to influence the feasibility of commercialization.
“This understanding has made me a more efficient decision-maker in my research, improved my ability to assess experimental approaches, and enhanced my effectiveness in communicating the value of a research proposal.”
Beyond gaining a thorough skillset in evaluating technologies and commercialization strategies, I have had the opportunity, as part of my fellowship, to participate in meetings between scientists and industry experts specifically focused on identifying key experimental milestones that result in investment and licensing interest. Participating in these conversations has been an enriching experience. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is how to identify and prioritize different goals during commercialization, as decisions aimed at progressing scientific theory don’t always align with those needed for commercial product development. Ultimately, knowing how to balance these interests is crucial for ensuring that research not only advances scientific knowledge but also leads to viable, impactful products in the market.
“In many ways, my Commercialization Academy fellowship has been as instrumental to my growth as a scientist as my thesis lab research.”
By developing skill sets in technology evaluation, I have become a more rigorous scientist who can contribute to every stage of product development, from primary research to commercial licensing and expansion. Additionally, interacting with industry experts during my fellowship has helped me grow professionally and learn about alternative careers that advance scientific progress by enabling the transition of innovative ideas from the bench to the clinic. My time with the JHTV commercialization academy has been, quite frankly, life changing. Prior to joining, I was interested in startups, venture capital, and technology transfer when I joined the chemical engineering Ph.D. program at Johns Hopkins, and quickly looked for opportunities to get my feet wet. The Commercialization Academy seemed like a great way to understand the industry-academia bridge, gain a background in technology transfer, and explore a potential career path.