University research is a vital building block of the nation's research and development (R&D) enterprise. While U.S. universities perform just 13 percent of total national R&D, they perform 31 percent of the nation's total research--basic and applied--and 56 percent of the nation's basic research. Because there is broad consensus that…

While some universities have had success establishing venture funds to market research with commercial potential, Cornell University has formed an alumni panel to evaluate new university technologies for those with promise for new products, spin-off companies, and profits. Members with connections in venture capital will arrange financing and…

Nanotechnology refers to the research and technology development at the atomic, molecular, or macromolecular levels, in the length scale of approximately 1-100 nanometer range, that provides a fundamental understanding of phenomena and materials at the nanoscale and creates and use structures, devices, and systems that have novel properties and…

Describes services aimed at agricultural information dissemination in India, which are based on a network of extension services provided through the cooperative efforts of agricultural universities, research institutes, state and federal government agencies, voluntary organizations, and commercial agencies. (CLB)

Issues concerning research partnerships between universities and industry are reviewed. Attention is directed to: the genesis of partnerships, a typology of linkages, salient incentives for academe and commerce, currently perceived barriers, qualitative assessment of linkages, and recommendations for the improvement of partnerships. Linkages fall…

Issues in technology transfer of inventions created through federally-funded, university-based research are reviewed, and the role of the Patent and Trademarks Amendments Act of 1980 in changing the presumption of title is discussed. (MSE)

Organizational aspects and implementation of Switzerland's national research program that promote goal-oriented research in the service of the general public are described. The Federal Council of Switzerland decides on the topics to be researched and the National Fund is responsible for carrying out the programs. (Author/SF)

The combination of the creative and technical aspects of research is illustrated by the methodologies used in three research projects: research on building design in relation to climate, environmental physiology, and utilization of natural energy for the heating and cooling of buildings. (JMF)

Introduces the Technology and Development Program (TDP) at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) that helps outside organizations with resources and knowledge in the area of science, technology, and development. Describes a program example including background, objectives, and activities. Lists nine reasons for the program's success. (YP)

Introduces a research activity program in which 10 students worked during the summer as part of a team that developed software for a larger project. Lists names of students, the professors with whom they worked, and their research efforts. (RT)

Although university technological research may help industry save money, some are concerned it may also help eliminate needed jobs. Observers disagree over the ultimate impact of technology transfer and the role of public policy in promoting it. Some recommend social policies designed to mitigate disruption by technological change. (MSE)

Basic ethical guidelines for intellectual property disputes between universities and industry include (1) negotiate in best faith; (2) vest patent ownership in the university partner; (3) grant the industrial partner exclusive license in most desired field of use; (4) allow industrial partner to negotiate over serendipitous discoveries outside…

Discusses the development of innovation and business incubators, including the stages of innovation typically addressed by such programs. Describes the efforts of the Thayer School, a graduate professional school at Dartmouth College, in establishing an innovation incubator. (TW)

Canada's Official Development Assistance (ODA) program is discussed, along with the contributions that universities can offer. Issues include: (1) the rationale and goals for Third World aid programs; (2) priority projects and areas of the world; (3) whether political and economic interests should be reflected in aid programs; (4) decision-making…

A recently-implemented university technology transfer program is described and discussed, including the context, elements required for technology transfer, federal patent policy, university policies and organization, the operating model, early results, university-industry interactions, and anticipated benefits to the university and industry. A…