Transformative technologies are highlighted in a landmark three-year survey by Knowledge Commercialisation Australia.

KCA’s Survey of Commercialisation Outcomes from Public Research (SCOPR), delivered by consultancy company gemaker, showcases the vital work of Technology Transfer professionals who move research from the lab into everyday use.

“Research from universities is often early stage and needs a team of people to get from concept to product. The outstanding innovations in this report have the potential to improve and save lives, while boosting our economy by billions of dollars,” KCA Chair, Dr. Erin Rayment, says. “It’s time to start planning for a knowledge-led recovery. To do that, we need to increase our investment in research and development, and commercialisation activities.” 

34 Australian and 15 New Zealand research organisations responded to the survey.

“This is important data, as it picks up potentially transformative technologies at the start of their journey to market maturity,” advisor and former CEO of Innovation and Science Australia, Dr. Charlie Day, says. “If this survey existed 26 years ago, it would have recorded a licence deal from The University of Queensland around the commercialisation of Gardasil, which is putting Australia on track to eradicate cervical cancer.”

Last year, Australian research organisations launched 42 new spin-outs and start-ups, and had 231 active companies based on early-stage publicly-funded research.

Here are some examples:

• Vaxxas – a UniQuest start-up from The University of Queensland – is developing a high-density microarray patch with the potential to be safer, easier-to-use, and more cost-effective than needles or syringes for administering vaccines. This innovation has created 40 biotechnology jobs.
• ASX-listed Amaero International – launched from research at Monash University and valued at $55m – is the first company to metal 3D print an Aerospike rocket engine, and CASA-approved components in commercial aircraft.
• Canopus Networks, which emerged from the UNSW Sydney, uses AI and machine learning to analyse how data is being consumed, monitor internet traffic, and assist customers with new revenue opportunities.

Read the article in The Australian to learn more about the SCOPR results or watch the feature on Channel 9 News.

Download the SCOPR Survey Report

For more information and interviews, contact tracey@gemaker.com.au (0411) 281 854.

About Knowledge Commercialisation Australasia (KCA)

Knowledge Commercialisation Australasia (KCA) is the peak body for organisations and individuals associated with knowledge commercialisation and exchange between public sector research organisations and business and government entities. We seek to link, enable and inspire our members, and provide the necessary tools and opportunities to spur on greater translation of research for economic and community benefit, and create a more vibrant and productive Australian economy. www.techtransfer.org.au

About gemaker

gemaker is a commercialisation agency, which provides Australian researchers and innovators with expert advice, services and training to commercialise new knowledge and technology. We are a team of technical and commercial specialists in market research, marketing and digital communications, IP strategy and commercialisation in the renewables, new materials, mining, environmental ICT, education and space sectors. gemaker is an associate member of KCA. www.gemaker.com.au