Intervenors in the Technology Transfer Process in a Public University

Abstract The purpose of this study is to investigate intervenors in the technology transfer process in a public university, analyzing its innovation agency from the point of view of protection of intellectual property. A single case study strategy was chosen using semi-structured interviews with agency managers and 13 researchers who actively participate in the process, document collection and direct observation. Results show the institutionalization of the agency by the university was preceded by a series of government incentives to support innovation and by partnerships established with other institutions. The main barriers identified among the intervenors are: activity overload, a lack of knowledge and interest from researchers, deficiencies in the patent drafting process and lack of human capital in agency activities, bureaucracy and a lack of support by the university. Facilitators included researcher academic experience, dissemination of intellectual property culture, outsourcing of the patent drafting process by the agency and its institutionalization by the university. Researchers are encouraged to engage in the process of technology transfer particularly by awareness of the importance of protecting discoveries, access to research resources, economic gains, and academic prestige.