Exchange Programme Provides Insights into Emory University’s TTO

Ms Minah Moncho, Senior IP Officer at Research Contracts & Innovation, was the recent recipient of the international exchange program award from the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and Southern African Research and Innovation Management Association (SARIMA).  Minah elected to visit Emory University’s technology transfer office, in Atlanta, USA, due to their expertise in Life Sciences.

The objectives of the program are to foster partnerships and collaborations between South African and international research institutions, and to support the strengthening of technology transfer capacity in South Africa through exposure to international technology transfer environments in the United States and European Union.

At Emory OTT, Minah was exposed to the processes, practices and the general work of the office. Emory OTT has had a great record of commercial success in the life science space and currently manages more than 1000 technologies, which have led to spin-off companies being formed and new products entering the market. In 2011, New England Journal of Medicine named Emory University the 4th largest contributor in drug discovery, with the Emory invented HIV drugs being the most utilised globally.

The exposure allowed Minah to draw parallels with RC&I’s activities and take home best practices which she has shared with the team and broader Western Cape TTO community.  Minah said that “the experience was both enriching and edifying to both my knowledge in IP management and career, I have enjoyed every moment at Emory OTT including the office culture”.

UCT's RC&I and Ms Moncho wish to thank and acknowledge DST and SARIMA for the award, and Emory OTT staff for their warm hospitality and generosity with their knowledge and time.