“We are proud to host these training sessions, as they help bridge the knowledge gap between research and industry while strengthening Qatar’s position as a global leader in innovation,” said Ms. Rosena Nhlabatsi, Senior Policy Expert (Intellectual Property), QRDI Council. “Training programs like Transacting Knowledge Transfer Agreements not only empower technology transfer professionals with the tools and insights they need to succeed but also play a crucial role in developing the RDI ecosystem here in Qatar. By equipping professionals with the right skills, we are helping to ensure that Qatar remains at the forefront of global innovation, driving economic growth and societal progress through various solutions.”
Dr. Jeff skinner MBA, PhD, RTTP, seasoned technology transfer consultant said, “It is both a great privilege and responsibility to be asked to provide such essential training for Qatar-based Technology Transfer colleagues. While Qatari universities and research institutes may have different strengths and priorities compared to those in Europe, there is much we share, including exceptionally bright faculty and researchers, and a strong determination to generate both local and global socioeconomic benefits from our research output. Whereas previous courses have focused on creating opportunities for collaboration and new venture creation, this course will center on the legal aspects of building robust relationships with research partners and investors. We will use a variety of real-world cases to illustrate the nuances and complexities involved in working with very early-stage technologies. As with all our training, this course is led by Technology Transfer professionals who bring decades of experience to the classroom.”
This session focused on two key types of agreements, collaboration and licensing agreements. These agreements are essential for the commercialisation of research, where universities offer their research expertise and technology in exchange for financial returns. The training provided in-depth insights into the complexities of these agreements and offered real-world case studies to help participants navigate the challenges that often arise in academic-to-business transactions.
Throughout the program, participants learned how to handle collaboration agreements, including material transfer, consultancy, and research collaborations, and explored licensing agreements concerning patents, know-how, and data. The course directors, Sigmar Lampe and Jeff Skinner, both seasoned experts with extensive experience in technology transfer, guided participants through various negotiation strategies and offered practical advice for managing these transactions.
The course also provided a deep dive into the unique nature of university-industry collaborations, emphasizing how technology transfer professionals can protect both academic and business interests while ensuring fair financial returns for all parties. Participants discussed key negotiation tactics and the challenges of balancing the interests of researchers, universities, and commercial partners.
The Transacting Knowledge Transfer Agreements training program is part of QRDI Council’s ongoing efforts to empower professionals in Qatar and the region, positioning them to successfully manage the commercialisation of research and innovation. As Qatar continues to build its research, development, and innovation (RDI) ecosystem, programs like these play an important role in fostering stronger collaborations between research institutions and industry.