Thomas Edison, Alexander Graham Bell, Benjamin Franklin and …
the University of California?
Though not often mentioned in the same breath, the UC has proven
to be one of the most prolific research institutions in the
country, a status some say provides a boost to the state’s
economy.
The university’s research and development is believed by
many to have an immense impact on the state economy as a whole
““ creating jobs, attracting new businesses and increasing tax
revenue.
According to a report released last month by the U.S. Patent and
Trademark Office, the UC has once again topped the nation’s
other major research universities, garnering the most patents for
the 11th straight year.
The UC was awarded 424 patents throughout the 2004 fiscal year,
nearly 300 more than the nation’s second most prolific
research university, the California Institute of Technology.
“Research is one of the core missions of the university as
a public institution,” said Trey Davis, director of special
projects for the UC. “It’s one of the responsibilities
of our research to develop those new discoveries and innovations
for the benefit of the public.”
According to a UC press release, research at the 10 UC campuses
is expected to add $5.2 billion and 104,000 new jobs to the state
economy throughout the course of the next decade.
“The university research provides important technological
innovations that help to create new businesses throughout
California,” Davis said. “Those new businesses employ
thousands of Californians and in turn help support the tax base of
the state.”
The UC’s role in research and development has resulted in
several medical advancements that researchers hope will save lives
and keep people healthy. For example, a device recently licensed
out by UCLA works to curb impairments that are commonly suffered by
stroke victims.
The corkscrew-like device is shot through blood vessels within
the brain in an effort to break apart blood clots and reverse the
debilitating effects of the most common type of strokes.
Research at UC Berkeley into the adhesive properties of gecko
toe hair allowed scientists to create an artificial synthesis of
the millions of sticky, microscopic hairs. The new adhesive can be
used where traditional glue-like adhesives prove faulty.
After research is completed on any new product or technique, a
patent must be applied for from the U.S. Patent and Trademark
Office. If the inventor’s work demonstrates a unique insight
that cannot be derived from prior art ““ a term used to
describe already existing knowledge ““ a patent will be
awarded and the inventor gains the exclusive right to make, sell,
and use the work, usually for 20 years.
After the patent is in place, the UC often works with companies
and individuals to license out the product in return for a
commitment to develop and commercialize the invention and provide
the university with a cut of any subsequent profit.
More than 160 companies have been founded based on the successes
of UC researchers, according to a UC press release.
UCLA, which was awarded 30 patents during the 2004 fiscal year,
is expected to lead all other UCs in job production, which is
projected to add nearly 20,000 jobs, according to the release.