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Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 	 page 2
r An increase in the number of disclosures
– With 134 disclosures (a 60% increase
over FY2009) it was a very prolific year for
Rutgers research. The rise in the number of
inventions was a direct result of the sub-
stantial increase in the research funding
at Rutgers which has been steadily on the
upside for the last decade.
r Consistent Patent Activity – 100 provisional
and regular patents were filed in 2010 (com-
pared to 94 in FY2009). The IP area also initi-
ated a student intern program this past sum-
mer. A few of our talented student interns
are still contributing to the department; the
program has far exceeded our expectations.
r Licensing successes - While last year’s
economy did not favor business develop-
ment, technology transfer activities gen-
erally increased as measured by license/
option activity and revenue generation. We
executed 80 licenses, options and similar
agreements in FY2010. – A majority of the
For faculty with a
passion for re-
search and innova-
tion, it’s an excit-
ing time to be at
Rutgers University.
Over the last year,
the University has
demonstrated an
unprecedented
commitment to
technology commercialization beginning with
the warm welcome I received from President
McCormick when I began my job as Executive
Director last Fall.
With over $430 million in total research
funding, Rutgers is a research powerhouse not
only in the northeast corridor but in the nation.
We’ve had many accomplishments in
technology commercialization over the past
year. I am pleased to highlight some of these
below.
Director’s Message
Table of Contents
Director’s Message 2
Faculty Profile 4 - 5
Technology Highlights 6 - 7
Startup Company News  Highlights 8 - 14
Center Profile 15
Office of Research Alliances 16
Intellectual Property Group 17 - 18
Corporate Contracts Group 19
Technology Licensing Group 20
Department Highlights 21
About the Office of Technology Commercialization 22 - 23
page 3	 Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010
agreements negotiated are expected to lead
to commercialization of university-owned
technologies in the near term.
r Increase in revenues – Rutgers total licensing
revenue increased from $8.1 million to $8.7
million. An additional $224,000 in equity was
received by the department. The non-turf-
grass revenues increased by over 50 percent
from the prior year.
r Start-Up successes - A major mission of
Rutgers is to positively impact the economy
in our home state. Over the years, Rutgers
has created more than 70 spin-off compa-
nies with a majority of these located within
New Jersey. In FY2010 alone, eight new
companies based on Rutgers innovations
were created. Seven of these were located in
NJ, directly increasing the number of jobs in
the state.
Last year also brought several new initiatives,
some have been implemented, and others will
be implemented in FY2011.
r Increased staffing at OTC – Three new
licensing managers - two in life sciences,
and one in physical sciences  engineer-
ing, joined OTC after national searches. We
also conducted a nationwide search for
our first Director of Operations. We wel-
comed Andrew Wooten to this position in
September. In addition, we plan on broaden-
ing our internship program in the coming
year.
r Active role in AUTM – The office has been
working hard to benchmark peer institu-
tions in areas such as entrepreneurship and
invention management. The entrepreneur-
ship program being initiated at Rutgers is
a direct example of President McCormick’s
vision of forging Rutgers University ahead in
this area. OTC has also played an active role
in trade organizations such as AUTM and LES.
As a personal commitment, I have become
AUTM’s AVP of Professional Development,
supporting education as well as international
outreach.
r New Alliances - As I look ahead, I see an even
brighter future as we’ve formed many new
relationships with various venture funds
including Allied Minds, Intellectual Ventures
and Triton Ventures. Recently, Allied Minds
signed a Memorandum of Agreement to sup-
port Rutgers spinoffs, committing $3 million
for investment over the next three years.
Intellectual Ventures, a prominent IP based
fund in Seattle, signed a partnership agree-
ment with Rutgers University. These and
other partnerships will be instrumental in
ensuring faculty and entrepreneurs have the
necessary funds available to create future
spinoff companies.
In the past, our office has successfully taken
technologies from Rutgers research programs
into the marketplace to benefit the public -
from introducing new varieties of cranberries,
to creating computer learning programs for
children to designing stents for surgical pa-
tients. With Rutgers increased commitment to
the OTC, I foresee many more successes such
as these.
In closing, I would like to acknowledge and
thank the faculty, staff and students who dis-
closed inventions in FY2010 and participated
in the technology commercialization process.
Your discoveries are the foundation with which
we build our successes upon. Thank you for
continuing to drive innovation at Rutgers.
Dipanjan Nag
Executive Director, OTC
Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 	 page 4
Paula Tallal’s story is not only one of Jersey
Roots….Global Reach but also an inspiring story
of how one person can truly make a differ-
ence in the lives of many. Her neuroscience
research that began in a Newark, New Jersey
lab has been translated into products that have
been sold to over 3 million children in 44 coun-
tries– more importantly her research and the
resulting products have improved the commu-
nications skills of millions.
The neuroscientist who started out as
an art-history major never imagined being a
business person and inventor. After receiv-
ing a Ph.D. in experimental psychology from
Cambridge University and teaching at Johns
Hopkins University and the University of
California, San Diego (UCSD), Tallal was
recruited to Rutgers Newark, together
with Dr. Ian Creese, to create and be the
Co-Director of the Center for Molecular
and Behavioral Neuroscience, one of the
first Neuroscience programs dedicated
to integrate cognitive and neural sci-
ences. It was here she demonstrated
that certain listening skills including
memory, attention, processing speed
and sequencing (MAPS) were the basic
cognitive building blocks that support
both spoken and written communication.
A series of brain training exercises, disguised
as computer games, using positive reinforce-
ment and based on the MAPS theory were
designed and developed by Tallal and her team
at Rutgers, in collaboration with a neurosci-
ence team at the University of California, San
Francisco. These games were introduced at a
Rutgers summer computer camp. After four
short weeks, the campers had significantly
improved their language skills. Tallal explains,
“The programs’ games contained mental train-
ing exercises that rewired the brain.”
The results were published in back to back
issues of Science and as the cliché goes, the
phone was ringing off the hook. Tallal recalls,
“Parents and teachers were calling Rutgers
and asking how they could get this program.”
Not knowing how to replicate or
scale-up the program for a manufacturer,
Tallal contacted the Office of Technology
Commercialization (previously the Office of
Corporate Liaison and Technology Transfer)
who had protected her intellectual property.
The office helped her find the best outlet to
license this technology. This was a new frontier
and there were no obvious “buyers.” With
the offices’ assistance, Tallal cofounded the
Scientific Learning Corporation, along with
Drs. Michael Merzenich and Bill Jenkins at the
University of California, San Francisco, and
Rutgers colleague Steven Miller in 1996. Fast
ForWord,®
their revolutionary software, was
introduced in 1998.
“I couldn’t have asked for more sup-
port from the various areas at Rutgers,” says
Tallal. “From the tech transfer office to the
provost and chancellor – the entire university
has been extremely supportive both in giving
me the background I needed to be success-
ful, filing my patents correctly, handling the
licensing and setting up the start-up com-
pany. “ The Board of Governor’s Professor of
Neurosciences and Co-Director of CMBN adds,
“My desire was to remain a full-time academic
which I was able to do. At the same time, I am
able to consult with the company. It allows
me to stay involved with the product of my
research without it being a conflict of interest.”
As of June 30, 2010, Tallal’s inventions
have brought in over $5.5 million in royalty
income to Rutgers. Today, Scientific Learning
Corporation is publicly traded on the NASDAQ
and provides education software to K-12
schools, educational institutions, speech and
language clinics, and learning and tutorial cen-
ters around the world. The company produces
12 different products and holds the rights to
83 issued patents and 26 patents pending. A
spin-off company. Posit Science Corportation,
targeted at the elderly population, has de-
signed software based on the MAPS training
technology to head off cognitive dysfunction
associated with aging.
Faculty Profile
Paula Tallal
page 5	 Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010
Fast ForWord®
is unlike the typical educa-
tional software, which are usually electronic
versions of textbooks. Fast ForWord®
uses a
sophisticated algorithm, based on Tallal and
her colleagues’ research that prompts each
user uniquely, reflecting his or her strengths
or weaknesses, to respond to stimuli. The
program is calibrated to reward success-
ful responses so that the brain rewires itself
neurologically. Results, demonstrated using
both behavioral and neuroimaging techniques,
include improved test scores, increased self-
confidence and reduced costs compared to
traditional intervention services.
Tallal is especially enthusiastic about the
ability to translate her work into so many set-
tings – particularly K-12 education. She’s been
influential with leading decision makers. She
comments, “It’s exciting to bring neurosci-
ence to them and explain how the brain can
be improved to support learning by combining
insights from cogntiive and neural sciences
with technology.”
What is on the horizon for Tallal? She’s
now starting two studies with Rutgers under-
graduates using cognitive fitness tests devel-
oped for children. The first group is part of the
Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation
(GS-LSAMP), a $5 million, five-year, multiple-
school program that aims to substantially
increase the numbers of under-represented
minority students graduating, and eventu-
ally, pursuing careers in the fields of science,
technology, engineering and math, also known
as STEM fields.
The second group is Rutgers students
entering the school with lower verbal scores
on the accu-placer test. These students must
pass developmental writing classes before
they can enter the required writing program.
“We’re hoping that by using Fast ForWord®
we
can help these students improve their cogni-
tive and communication skills, skills that are so
essential to overall academic performance.
The passion she feels for her research
is evident when Tallal talks about the posi-
tive effect Fast ForWord®
has had on people’s
lives. She has received letters and emails from
parents and children who have benefited from
the product. Parents whose child has done Fast
ForWord®
training approach her at scientific
conferences to thank her and give her hugs.
Most recently, a friend of a neighbors asked if
she could meet Paula so she could thank her
in person for the change Fast ForWord®
had on
her child’s life.
For additional information, on the Fast
ForWord®
product series, visit www.scientifi-
clearning.com The product was just released
for individual in-home use, visit www. brain-
sparklearning.com for more information.
2010 At a Glance
In FY 2010 the office:
r Processed 1149 Corporate Contracts, a
13% increase over the previous year
r Generated $18.8 million in industry
sponsored projects
r Received 134 invention disclosures, a
60% increase over the previous year
r Filed 55 Provisional Patent applications
r Filed 45 Regular U.S. Patent applications
r Received 26 Issued U.S. Patents
r Completed 80 agreements (includes
patent licenses, options, and comparable
agreements)
r Generated $8.7 million in licensing income
r Created 8 start-up companies; 7 of which
are headquartered in New Jersey
Faculty Profile
Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 	 page 6
Technology Highlights
They are 3-D, they are intricate, and they are
unique. The folding technologies created in the
laboratory of Dr. Elsayed, Rutgers department
of Industrial and Systems Engineering, enable
a new generation of stronger, lighter and lower
cost structural panel materials. The patented
technology, a continuous folding concept and
a unique process that creates 3-D engineering
designs, endows conventional sheet materi-
als with exceptional and superior performance
characteristics. Paper once folded according to
a predefined pattern results in high strength,
light weight and easy to produce products. The
technologies are also capable of folding a wide
range of material (copper, aluminum, paper,
plastic, etc.) into intricate designs. All these
have one common feature: their ability to be
produced by folding a flat sheet of material.
Physical Sciences – Folding Technology
Created from a relatively new theory
of mathematics, the complex folded sheet
structures are generally polygonally faceted
surfaces that repeat in two directions within
parallel planes. The surfaces are nearly zero
curvature (NXC), that is the geometry will fold
and unfold into a flat plane and are called DPFs
(doubly periodic folded surfaces).
Topline Containers, LLC recently licensed
the “paper” applications of the folding tech-
nology. Topline is currently conducting exten-
sive testing and evaluation of this technology.
It plans to build a production line in 2011.
The technology is available for licensing in
other applications and can be used to provide
stronger, lighter and cost effective alterna-
tives for walls, floors, roofs, modular shelters,
recreational vehicles, containers, pallets and
other industries.
page 7	 Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010
While significant progress in the develop-
ment of a single drug or diagnostic agent is
worthy of praise, Rutgers
Pharmaceutics Professor II
Patrick Sinko and his labo-
ratory research assistant
Manjeet Deshmukh have
developed a novel drug and
diagnostic delivery system
using poly(ethylene glycol)
(PEG) nanogels that prom-
ises to improve the safety
and efficacy of many existing
drug and diagnostic agents. 
The PEG nanogels are capable
of forming stable aggregates
of different sizes that allow
for a specific organ/cell type to be targeted. 
This specificity is crucial for diseases such as
tumor-based cancers where a high dosage is
needed in a very specific region of the body.  In
addition to the ability to stabilize and solubi-
lize the carried agent so that it may reach the
Life Sciences - PEG Nanogels
intended target and deliver a full dosage, the
delivery system allows for a reduced risk of
complications due to its abil-
ity to prevent a wide disper-
sal of the medicinal agent
throughout the body.  
 Since the PEG nano-
gels are highly biocompat-
ible and the Food and Drug
Administration has classified
PEG as “generally regarded
as safe” (GRAS) , this new
drug and diagnostic delivery
technology provides the rare
opportunity for rapid transi-
tion from the laboratory to
use in humans. The technol-
ogy will improve current treatments with few,
if any, side effects in healthy tissues. Most re-
cently, Professor Sinko received a major grant
from the National Cancer Institute to treat lung
cancer using this approach.
What is IP? Intellectual Property
What is a Patent? An exclusive right granted for an invention.
Who can apply for a
patent?
Only the actual inventor(s)
How long is the
exclusivity period of a
Patent?
Twenty years
What is OTC? At Rutgers, OTC stands for The Office of Technology Commercialization
What is LES?
LES is the Licensing Executives Society (LES).  This is an international profes-
sional society with nearly 11,000 members engaged in the development,
use, transfer, marketing, and management of intellectual property.
What is technology
transfer?
Technology transfer is a term used to describe a formal transfer of rights
to use and commercialize new discoveries and innovations resulting from
scientific research to another party. Universities typically transfer technol-
ogy through protecting (using patents and copyrights), then licensing new
innovations.(Source: AUTM website)
Did you know?
Technology Highlights
Transmission electron microscopy (TEM)
image of aggregated nanogel particles
(ANPs). Inset: In vivo imaging system
(IVIS) image of fluorescently attached
ANPs showing highly selective accumu-
lation in a rat lung.
Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 	 page 8
Startup Company News  Highlights
A measure of success for any technology commercialization office is when faculty and
students turn their innovations into viable companies. In FY2010, a total of eight (8) new
companies were started from Rutgers, helping boost the local economy and showcasing the
University as an entrepreneurial leader in the state. In addition to forming new companies,
the OTC assists in developing the numerous start-up companies that have been founded on
University technologies during the past twenty-one years. Over 50 of these companies are
viable today, with the majority based in New Jersey.
Professor April Benasich spends much of
her time at Rutgers Center for Molecular and
Behavioral Neuroscience laboratory inter-
acting with babies. For over 15 years, Dr.
Benasich, the director of the Infancy Studies
Laboratory, has focused her research on brain
development in infancy and early childhood,
specifically the neural processes necessary
for normal language and cognitive develop-
ment. The ability to perform
fine-grained acoustic analyses
for non-speech sounds, in the
tens of millisecond range, is
critically important to analyzing
and discriminating the speech
stream. Most of the timing cues
involved in speech perception
occur in a time scale of tens
to hundreds of milliseconds.
Analysis of these timing cues,
allows the child’s brain to set
up language maps and promote
automatic language processing. Dr. Benasich
was the first to show that in infants this ability
to analyze non-speech is highly predictive of
later language. A child who is poor at process-
ing rapid, sequential acoustic information, is
at much higher risk of developing a language
disorder.
Over the last eight years, Dr. Benasich
has created a technology (patent-pending),
that can identify infants at highest risk of
poor language outcomes and “normalize” and
optimize information processing at a very early
age, before language is acquired, by improving
their processing of ongoing rapid, sequential
acoustic information.
In 2008 AAB, LLC, a spin-off company
founded by Professor Benasich, licensed the
technology with a goal of bringing this poten-
tially life-changing invention to the public. The
beneficiaries are 4 – 6 month olds who have a
higher risk of developing a language disorder.
These could be children with a
family history of language disor-
ders such as language impairment
and/or dyslexia or very pre-term
infants. According to Dr. Benasich,
research studies have shown that
using the interactive application
she has designed allows for very
early assessment and interven-
tion. She comments, “You can
change the efficiency of the child’s
processing using certain sounds
and visual stimuli to promote
development of optimal brain networks. Thus a
language disorder might be prevented entirely
from occurring. This intervention also appears
to increase the effectiveness of information
processing in normally developing children as
well.”
AAB assembled a team of consultant
experts in marketing, production development
and engineering who are designing a series of
prototypes which they can market to a partner
company in the technology or educational toy
industries. The company is developing a more
AAB, L.L.C.
Elise Hardwick, 4 1/2 months old,
participates in one of a series
of field trials to determine what
types of toys best capture the
attention of young infants.
page 9	 Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010
general fun, toy-like device for the gen-
eral public—to support and enhance babies’
cognitive and language development. Also in
progress is a more complex clinical tool that
would be used in doctor’s offices and clinics to
assess the baby and then deliver individual-
ized treatment to correct potential language or
cognitive delays.
Dr. Benasich concludes, “I think we
can have a substantial impact on improving
children’s language and cognitive develop-
ment. The result of my research and AAB’s
work will be a fun, exciting and technologically
sophisticated device for children that will en-
courage parents and children to interact with
each other. “
Though AAB is currently self-funded, the
company will be looking at potential partners
for sublicensing over the next year.
“Quite Possibly the
World’s most perfect
building Materials” is
a tagline that is ex-
tremely well suited to
Axion International. The
New Providence, New
Jersey company designs,
develops and manufac-
tures a new generation
of eco-friendly structural
building materials that
are unlike anything on
the market. The patented
technologies, developed by Thomas Nosker’s
team of scientists at Rutgers Department of
Materials Science and Engineering, transform
recycled consumer and industrial plastics
into a myriad of structural products includ-
ing railroads, marine pilings and bridges. The
American–made products are stronger, more
cost effective and longer lasting than wood,
steel or concrete.
The company began operations in 2007
and certainly reached a breakthrough in 2009
when At Fort Bragg, N.C., a 70-ton M-1 Abrams
tank, too heavy for many bridges, repeatedly
crossed a bridge made of Axion’s 100% recy-
cled plastic. The bridge crossing was featured
in Business Week in September 2009. Other
Axion highlights in the previous year included:
In June 2010 the
Company announced
it received its first
two purchase orders
for railroad crossties
made out of Recycled
Structural Composite
(RSC) by Moroccan
National Railway
Company (ONCF).
ONCF operates more
than 1100 miles (1900
kilometers) of track
throughout Morocco
(North Africa) and carried over 29 million pas-
sengers last year.
Innovative Composites International Inc.
announced in February 2010 that it signed
a Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”)
with Axion for the companies to utilize their
respective complementary technologies in
several projects and exchange thermoplastic
products know-how. ICI has utilized Axion’s
patented thermoplastic material in the design
of the state-of-the-art composite containers
developed jointly by ICI and Universal Storage
Containers, LLC (USC), the exclusive marketer
and distributer of the finished containers, un-
der the Z2-Box™ name.
For more information visit www.axionintl.com.
Axion International
Startup Company News  Highlights
Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 	 page 10
Connotate is a leading provider of solutions
that help companies collect data and content
from the Web. Leveraging patented technology
developed at Rutgers University, Connotate
provides clients with customized real-time
Web information extraction capabilities that
help organizations cost effectively
collect, analyze and distribute
high-volumes of unstruc-
tured Web data. Connotate’s
solution helps individual organiza-
tions detect changes, collect and orga-
nize data from client-targeted Web sources
relevant to specific data needs. Connotate’s
Connotate Inc.
clients rely on real-time data – ranging from
a few hundred to millions of Web pages per
day – and this information powers products
and services from some of the most successful
data-driven companies in the world. Located
in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Connotate
is rapidly expanding both its client base and
employee staff. Clients include large publishing
firms such as McGraw-Hill, Associated Press
and Thomson Reuters, data providers, govern-
ment agencies, financial services firms and
healthcare and pharmaceutical companies.
Most recently, the company gained a new
interim CEO, Thomas Meyer.
Below are a few of Connotate’s exciting high-
lights for FY 2010.
r In August 2010, Connotate’s Agent
Community GEN2™ was recognized by
KMWorld for the 5th consecutive year as a
“Trend-Setting Product.” According to Hugh
McKellar, KMWorld editor-in-chief, “This
year, more than 600 products were assessed
by our judging panel…Connotate’s solu-
tion stands out for being truly accessible to
business users, easy-to-use, resilient and
extremely scalable.”
r In June 2010, Connotate raised $5.25 million
in funding led by 406 Ventures. The company
will use the new capital to increase its prod-
uct offerings and expand sales and marketing
operations to meet the growing demand for
real-time data in key vertical markets.
r In February 2010, Connotate was again
named to KMWorld’s Exclusive List, “100
Companies That Matter in Knowledge
Management.” This marks the 6th con-
secutive year Connotate has been named
to the list, and demonstrates the com-
pany’s continued leadership in knowledge
management.
r Connotate was named to EContent
Magazine’s “Top 100 Companies that Matter
Most to the Digital Content Industry.” The
judges noted product adaptations and in-
novations when selecting Connotate for in-
clusion on the list for 2009 and commented
that “Connotate’s innovative approach to
harvesting and delivering web data is mak-
ing a lasting impact on the digital content
industry…”
r Connotate was recognized by analyst firm
IDC as an Innovative “Information Access
Company Under $100M to Watch.”  “IDC
recognized Connotate for its innovative
approach to harvesting and delivering Web
information quickly to its customers in
multiple formats, including targeted alerts,
spreadsheets, data streams and time-series
trending data that can be customized by
each user, and shared with others,” said Sue
Feldman, IDC’s VP for Search and Discovery
technologies.  
For more information, visit
www.connotate.com.
Startup Company News  Highlights
page 11	 Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010
Rutgers licensee, REVA Medical Inc., has
achieved a major milestone in its efforts
to bring its innovative products to market.
Recently the company filed for a $63 mil-
lion Initial Public Offering on the Australian
Stock Exchange. The company previously
raised approximately $57 million in venture
capital funding from groups including Domain
Partners, Saints Capital, Cerberus Capital
Management, Group Outcome, and Brookside
Capital. They have also demonstrated promis-
ing results from ongoing clinical studies. Plans
are being made to apply
for regulatory approvals
in Australia and Europe
before seeking clearance
in the United States. REVA
is targeting the large medical
device market for coronary stents. The market
for metal coronary stents used in patients with
arteries that are more than 50% blocked is
currently in excess of $5.5 billion worldwide.
REVA’s technical advances could substantially
expand this market while addressing a critical
unmet need for cardiac patients.
REVA is one of the leaders in the race
to develop a fully dissolvable or resorbable
cardiac stent. These stents are seen as a great
step forward in cardiac care relative to the
metal stents currently in use. Stents are tiny
mesh tubes that are used to prop open previ-
ously clogged arteries. Many existing stents
can be coated with drugs to prevent a build-up
of scar tissue. Scar tissue can cause a blood
vessel to become re-blocked. However, drug-
coated stents slow the healing process and
carry a higher risk of blood clots that can also
block the vessel. REVA and others in this race
believe that fully dissolvable stents can avoid
these complications. Thus physicians who are
wary of utilizing permanent metal stents in pa-
tients whose arteries are not yet blocked, may
be willing to try a temporary, bioabsorbable
one. The approach is being validated by the
efforts of industry giant Abbott Laboratories.
And while Abbott’s efforts are
beneficial to all competitors in
the field, REVA believes that
its technology has distinct
advantages.
The enabling technology behind REVA’s
lead product, the “ReZolve” stent, is a revolu-
tionary new biomaterial developed in the labo-
ratory of Professor Joachim Kohn at Rutgers
New Jersey Center for Biomaterials. After sev-
eral years of strong research collaboration with
Professor Kohn, and the development of new
intellectual property, REVA and Rutgers re-
cently negotiated and signed a revised license
agreement that will enable REVA to aggres-
sively pursue its commercialization efforts.
For more information, visit
www.teamreva.com.
REVA Medical Inc.
Startup Company News  Highlights
Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 	 page 12
Startup Company News  Highlights
Strongly encouraged by high schools and col-
leges to make the highly successful Rutgers
Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR) system
available to other colleges and universities,
Rutgers created a spinoff company, Scarlet
Computing Solutions, LLC (SCS) in 2009 to
launch STARS (MyStarsRecord.com). STARS is
a product that makes the college application
and review process easier for students who
can now self-report their school transcript
information, including courses, grades, and
summary information such as GPA and rank-
in-class. This product also improves the envi-
ronment by elimi-
nating costly paper
processes. Parents
and guidance coun-
selors no longer have
to wonder whether a
transcript was sent and received successfully
via postal mail.
Admissions application processing and
review have been revolutionized by SRAR,
eliminating tens of thousands of manual
transactions.
Development of the SRAR began in
spring 2008, and went into full production
in September 2008 for the 2009 admissions
cycle. In the first year of use, Rutgers “highly
recommended” using the SRAR, and over
11,000 SRARs were submitted successfully.
By year two (2010 cycle), based on the posi-
tive results from the previous year, Rutgers
“required” applicants to use the SRAR. To date,
there have been over 25,000 received from
first-year applicants. An indirect benefit of
the program is the ability to reallocate staff
previously working on transcript processing to
more strategic tasks.
SCS founder, Dr. Paul Johnson (Rutgers
alumnus of RC, GSNB, and GSE), already has
seen many benefits to Rutgers for this ven-
ture. “Working with other outstanding aca-
demic institutions on STARS has significantly
improved the product by obtaining excellent
recommendations for feature enhancements
which benefit Rutgers, too. Since we are also
learning how to integrate STARS with com-
mercial student information systems such as
Banner and PeopleSoft, Rutgers will have in-
house expertise on connecting other Rutgers
data and systems to our forthcoming com-
mercial student system, which is currently in
the planninganalysis stage.” Paul also praises
Vice President for Enrollment Management,
Courtney McAnuff, as being integral to SRAR/
STARS success. “Courtney has been highly
supportive of innovation such as the SRAR and
has impressed upon enrollment management
colleagues at other universities that they, too,
can improve their operational efficiency via
STARS.”
SRAR/STARS is rapidly advancing in
technology and spreading in the market. Two
important initiatives will take place in AY 2010-
11. The first is pre-college programs at Rutgers,
starting with Rutgers Future Scholars Program,
will be able to track progress and measure
outcomes for their high school students as
early as ninth grade with the SRARSTARS.
The second initiative is that STARS will support
international student (e.g., O-level exams) and
transfer student records. Two major clients
from the SUNY system, Binghamton and Stony
Brook Universities, will be using STARS for this
academic year, and other colleges and uni-
versities have also expressed interest in the
product.
For additional information, please contact SCS
at http://mystarsrecord.com/contact_us.html
or by phone at 732-964-9040.
Scarlet Computing Solutions
page 13	 Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010
Silagene Inc. began operations in FY2009
based on an exclusive license to the U1 Adaptor
technology developed by Samuel Gunderson’s
team at Rutgers University. This brand-new
method for silencing genes works via a
completely different mechanism from cur-
rent techniques. To date, gene “silencing” has
been dominated by only a few technologies
that are associated with problems of delivery,
stability, and immune reactivity. The ability to
“switch off” genes in living cells and organisms
is indispensable in the discovery of gene func-
tions, and has been increasingly recognized as
a viable option to treat many genetic diseases.
In addition, combining U1 Adaptors and RNA
interference is a potential dual approach which
could allow these molecular therapies to work
at lower doses.
Silagene, Inc.
Based in Hillsborough, New Jersey,
Silagene received a significant subcontract
from Integrated DNA Technologies (IDT) cor-
poration in 2009 to further develop the
technology in tissue culture.
In addition, in the Spring of 2010, Dr.
Gunderson was the first Rutgers re-
cipient of a $200,000 Program Award
from the University City Science Center
QED Proof-of-Concept Program.
Of this award, Silagene received
$77,000 and business advice for one year. The
QED funding will allow Silagene to do in vivo
testing of the U1 Adaptor technology to assess
its therapeutic potential in two projects – tu-
mor suppression and cholesterol reduction.
For more information, visit
www.silagene.com.
TAXIS Pharmaceuticals is focused on the dis-
covery and development of pharmaceuticals
targeting multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial
pathogens. Formed in March 2009 by scien-
tific founders Dr. Edmond LaVoie of Rutgers
University, Dr. Daniel Pilch of The University
of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey and
Chief Executive Officer, Gregory G. Mario, the
company has identified new classes of pro-
prietary antibiotic agents that exploit a novel
mechanism of action distinct from any other
antibiotic in clinical use today.
The alarming rise in the number of MDR
bacterial pathogens that have emerged
and spread in recent years has dramatically
reduced the utility of the current arsenal of
antibiotics. Two such MDR pathogens in par-
ticular have been recognized as major threats
to biodefense and global public health, methi-
cillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
and vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE).
The TAXIS team has designed and is in the
process of implementing nine unique series of
chemical compounds targeting the essential
bacterial cell division protein, FtsZ. TAXIS’ fam-
ily of compounds selectively target the FtsZ
protein, thereby inhibiting FtsZ-catalyzed GTP
hydrolysis, FtsZ polymerization, the formation
of FtsZ Z-rings, and cell division, and ultimate-
ly resulting in bacterial cell death.
Taxis has several lead compounds in
pre-clinical stages of de-
velopment, with the goal
of identifying good clinical
candidates for the treatment
of multidrug-resistant Gram-negative
bacterial infections in 2011. The company ex-
pects its first compound to enter clinical trials
in 2012. These agents potentially represent the
first transformational innovation in antibiotic
technology in more than three decades.
For more information, visit
www.taxispharma.com.
TAXIS Pharmaceuticals
Startup Company News  Highlights
Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 	 page 14
Since its inception in 1998, TYRX sci-
entists, engineers and marketers have
focused on a singular goal — creating
unique, cost-effective solutions that ad-
dress surgical-site infections (SSIs) and
inflammatory tissue-reaction associated
with implanted medical devices. TYRX,
located in Monmouth Junction, New
Jersey, is an FDA registered, ISO certified
medical device manufacturer of drug-
device combination products utilizing
novel polymer technology, includ-
ing a world-wide license from Rutgers
which covers a broad range of resorbable
materials and drug delivery technology. This
technology was based on the research of Dr.
Joachim Kohn, Board of Governors Professor of
Chemistry.
The com-
pany reached a
major implant
milestone in
FY2010. TYRX
announced in
June that it had
successfully
implanted its
AIGISrx Envelope
device in 10,000
patients in the
United States. The AIGISrx Envelope is an anti-
bacterial mesh technology that securely holds
a pacemaker (PM) or implantable cardioverter
TYRX, Inc.
defibrillator (ICD) in place to create a stable
environment, while delivering antimicrobial
agents, rifampin and minocycline. These anti-
microbial agents have been shown to reduce
infections associated with medical devices in
multiple randomized controlled trials.
“Reaching this 10,000th AIGISrx implant
milestone is a remarkable achievement and
a testament to our team who has worked
tirelessly and enthusiastically to develop this
important technology to address a signifi-
cant clinical need,” said Robert White, TYRX
President and CEO. “Approximately one out
of 50 patients in the U.S. experiences a major
infection problem at a cost of approximately
$50,000 per patient. The AIGISrx Antibacterial
Envelope provides hospitals and clinicians with
a way to improve patient outcomes while re-
ducing the corresponding economic burden.”
For more information, visit www.tyrx.com.
Startup Company News  Highlights
page 15	 Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010
Established in 2006 with an $18 million grant
from the National Science Foundation (NSF),
the Engineering Research Center for Structured
Organic Particulate Systems (C-SOPS) gener-
ates the science and
technology needed to
develop and manufac-
ture structured organic
particulate systems-
pharmaceutical dosage
forms such as tablets are
a key example. While the
Center’s current focus
is on the pharmaceuti-
cal industry, results
can also be applied to
the food, nutraceutical,
and consumer products
industries among oth-
ers. Rutgers is the lead
institution in the multi-
university consortium
which includes Purdue,
New Jersey Institute
of Technology (NJIT),
and the University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez.
Professor Fernando Muzzio of Rutgers serves
as the Center director.
The Center has advanced many aspects
of the science and technology necessary for
understanding the structure of formulated
solid dosage forms and their manufacture. The
research program includes controlling how
materials are formed, how manufacturing
processes can be designed, scaled up and opti-
mized, how final products can be characterized
and modeled, and most importantly, how all
of these can be integrated into a continuous
manufacturing system operating in closed loop
Center Profile
The NSF Engineering Research Center for Structured
Organic Particulate Systems (C-SOPS)
control. An indication of the Center’s suc-
cess in research is evidenced by the 36 peer
reviewed publications last year, in addition
to more than 30 other papers, and numer-
ous presentations and
posters at national
meetings.
Close interaction
with industry is a de-
fining characteristic of
C-SOPS. Twenty nine
companies are cur-
rently formal mem-
bers of the Center;
these include end use
formulators (phar-
maceutical, food, and
consumer products
companies) and their
technology suppliers
who provide equip-
ment, instruments,
and software. This
close collaboration
between academia
and industry has enabled rapid advancement
in relevant science and technology. Industrial
mentors provide input which accelerates
progress, while the end user requirements
(voice of the customer) are established at the
beginning and revalidated throughout the
process. Potential commercialization routes
and partners are identified early. The success
and promise of the Center and its industrial
partners has been validated by the award of an
additional $2 million in NSF funding, specifically
to further accelerate the commercialization of
Center technology.
Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 	 page 16
Engaging Companies in Early
Research  Corporate Relationship
Development
In an effort to expand the relationship of
the University with Industry, the Rutgers
University Office of the Vice President for
Research and Graduate and Professional
Education has launched the Office of Research
Alliances (ORA) with the mission of providing a
“one-stop concierge service” for industries to
engage Rutgers’ researchers, centers and ca-
pabilities while their research ideas are still be-
ing designed and developed. An important step
in the conversion of Federal  State supported
research ideas into commercial products is
technology modification for commercial appli-
cation, such as sponsored research, small scale
animal studies, center memberships  col-
laboration, SBIR/STTR grants and other corpo-
rate investments into the University. The ORA
is a gateway for companies to engage with the
University early on in the theoretical stage in
relation to technology transfer/licensing.
When companies seek to collaborate
with Rutgers or utilize Rutgers’ facilities, the
ORA is your first stop to start the discussion.
The ORA serves as part-information center
and part-networking hub for companies who
wish to engage the University. By working in
Office of Research Alliances
collaboration with existing offices, the ORA is a
single-point of contact within the University,
fostering a smooth collaboration between
Industry and the University offices. As Industry
shifts into a more Open Innovation Model,
the ORA’s responsibilities are to transform
the University into an outsourced, fixed RD
partner. As RD projects often take time to
develop, the ORA is able to assist by creating a
pipeline for both Industry and OTC to come to
the negotiation table.
The ORA is comprised of both scientific
experts and seasoned business managers who
understand the needs and speak the language
of both the Rutgers and Industry communi-
ties. Reporting to Richard Mammone Ph.D.,
the Associate Vice President of Corporate 
Venture Alliances, the ORA includes Associate
Directors Thomas Richardson Ph.D. and Steven
Ortley with varied experience in private and
public sector. From drug discovery to clean
wind turbines to mobile commerce, their
experience in crossing from University to
Industry will be a valuable resource to Rutgers
and Industry alike. Whether you are a busi-
ness leader in the community or a Rutgers
researcher, the ORA is your new resource to
facilitate early discussions about collaboration
and sponsored projects.
page 17	 Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010
Intellectual Property Group
Rutgers faculty had a very active year in
FY2010.  The department received 134 new in-
vention disclosures from researchers through-
out the university, a 60% increase from the
previous year. The disclosures were closely
split between life sciences  (46 percent) and
physical sciences/engineering disciplines (41
percent).  Agriculture technologies accounted
for the remaining 13 percent of new inventions.
To better service our faculty clients, OTC
created a shortened disclosure form, the
Notice of Invention (NOI), to make the first
report of an invention easier for faculty.  The
form must be submitted to OTC  to preserve
proprietary rights prior to discussing the in-
vention with others, including those who are
interested in possible commercial or sponsored
research partnerships, and prior to any “pub-
lication” of the invention which might jeopar-
dize the University’s ability to obtain a patent
on the invention.
As part of the revised invention disclosure
process, a more detailed patent disclosure
form (pdf) is requested for inventions that
have significant commercial potential.   In the
next fiscal year, the department plans to use
an online disclosure form, further streamlining
the invention disclosure process. 
Disclosure Activity
Area # of Disclosures
rLife Sciences 61
rPhysical Sciences / Engineering 55
rAgriculture / SEBS 18
134
FY10 Invention Disclosures by Area
41% 13%
46%
Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 	 page 18
Intellectual Property Group
OTC’s Patent Group manages the Intellectual
Property (IP) developed throughout Rutgers
campuses and in conjunction with collabora-
tors outside the university. The majority of
OTC’s IP protec­tion activity is concentrated
on pursuing patents although the department
also handles copyrights and trademarks where
appropriate.
In FY 2010 there was continued growth
in the Rutgers patent portfolio. In FY2010, 55
Provisional U.S. Applications for Patents were
filed; 45 Regular U.S. Applications for Patents
were filed and 26 U.S. Plant and Utility Patents
were issued to Rutgers.
The office’s overall intellectual property
reflects the diversity and innovative research
taking place at the University. Examples of
successfully commercialized Rutgers inven-
tions come from a variety of areas within the
broader classifications of agricultural, life sci-
ences, materials sciences and engineering and
computer sciences disciplines.
In May 2010, the Biennial Patent Awards
Celebration was held to highlight the signifi-
cant contributions made by Rutgers’ inven-
tors in the pursuit of United States patents.  
The prestigious event was held at President
Patenting Activity
McCormick’s residence with over 35 honorees
in attendance.
The Patent Group participated in a special
Boot Camp in September 2009 that was of-
fered to faculty, staff and students to educate
them on the process involved in obtaining pat-
ent protection and exploring the role that an
inventor plays in helping secure a patent and
commercialize his technology. 
In addition to these activities, significant
steps were taken in the initial migration to
Sophia, a more comprehensive Intellectual
Property database. During fiscal year 2011 we
will be fully implementing this web-based
system which will make it convenient for in-
novators to access and view their intellectual
property portfolio from their office, home or
anywhere they choose. Simple information
requests will be available around the clock.
Another exciting feature of the system is the
ability to enter technology disclosures on-
line. This paperless system will streamline
the process of submitting new innovations to
OTC. Other improvements included updating
internal policies and procedures and pursuing a
robust legal intern and extern program.
						
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
Issued US PatentsRegular Patent ApppsProvisional Patent Apps
FY 10FY 09FY 08FY 07FY 06FY 05FY 04FY 03FY 02FY 01
U.S. Applications Issued and Applications Filed by Fiscal Year r Provisional Patent Applications
r Regular Patent Applications
r Issued US Patents
page 19	 Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010
Corporate Contracts Group
In spite of the prolonged recession, Corporate
Contracts experienced another record year
in the number of contractual transactions
processed in fiscal year 2010. Building on
last year’s record-setting number of 1,013
documents, in the 2010 fiscal year the group
processed 1,149 transactions (a 13% increase).
Corporate Funding amounts also increased
significantly during the same period. The $18.8
million in funding received in fiscal year 2010
represents a 10.5% increase from FY2009
figures of $17.0 million.
Corporate Contracts is an integral
component of the Office of Technology
Commercialization. The group is responsible for
reviewing, drafting, negotiating and signing in-
dustrial-sponsored research and service proj-
ects. The types of contracts processed by the
Corporate Contracts group includes research,
service, collaboration, inter-institutional,
master, SBIR/STTR and other special agree-
ments. In addition, Corporate Contracts has the
overall responsibility for material transfer and
confidentiality agreements regardless of the
other contracting entity (non-profit, govern-
ment, and for-profit corporations).
A new initiative within the department
included the implementation of a fully auto-
mated material transfer and confidentiality
agreement processing system called EchoSign
that includes electronic signature capabil-
ity. The impetus for this new system was to
improve turnaround time.
Corporate Contracts Activity
Contract success stories in fiscal year 2010
include:
r $1.2MM for continuation of research with a
young materials company
r A $597K subcontract from a NJ-based prime
contractor
r $541K for continuation of research with a
small pharmaceutical company
r A $300K AARA funded subcontract from a
mid-sized high-technology company
r A $236K service agreement with a large utility
corporation
0
5
10
15
20
25
FY 10FY 09FY 08FY 07FY 06FY 05FY 04FY 03FY 02FY 01
Dollars(Millions)
16.7 17.0
18.9
14.3
20.3
21.0
24.8
16.1
17.0
18.8
Corporate Funding by Fiscal Year
Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 	 page 20
Technology Licensing Group
Finding a potential licensee for the many
technologies OTC receives is one of the most
challenging and important tasks we have.
The licensing group is responsible not only for
reviewing invention disclosures and assisting
with patenting decisions but also for identify-
ing potential licensees, drafting term sheets
and licenses, negotiating options, licenses, and
other agreements with qualified candidates
and assisting in starting spin-off companies,
when appropriate.
A license agreement grants the right
to use some of the University’s intellectual
property. This is in exchange for the licensee’s
commitment to provide the resources required
for further development and commercializa-
tion of the invention and to pay the University
appropriate compensation. Depending on the
technology and its market potential, either an
exclusive or a nonexclusive license may be
offered. In addition to generating royalty in-
come, technology licensing provides University
researchers with additional funds for research
and development.
In FY 2010, OTC received $8.7 million
in licensing revenue, an increase from the
$8.1 million received in FY2009. An addi-
tional $224,000 in equity was received by the
department. There was a significant amount
of new licensing activity last year and as a
result, 80 licenses, options and comparable
agreements were executed in FY2010, a 30%
increase from the previous year.
Technology Licensing
0
20
40
60
80
100
FY 10FY 09FY 08FY 07FY 06FY 05FY 04FY 03FY 02FY 01
42
15
19
25 26
35
72
96
63
82
0
2
4
6
8
10
Equity Holdings License Revenue
FY 10FY 09FY 08FY 07FY 06FY 05FY 04FY 03FY 02FY 01
$4.8
$0.5
$4.0
$0.6
$5.1
$5.4
$2.2
$4.3
$2.2
$5.7
$1.6
$1.1
$7.7
$8.1 $8.1
$0.5 $0.3 $0.0
$8.7
$0.2
Licenses and Options Executed by Fiscal Year
FY 2010 Licenses and Options Executed
by Area
Annual Licensing Revenue and Equity
Holdings*
Area # of Agreements
rCranberries 30
rDogwood-Holly 16
rBiomed-Pharma 9
rIT 6
rOther Fruit 5
rEnergy-Environment 4
rMaterials 4
rMisc. 4
rElectronics-Instruments 2
80
37% 20%
11%
8%
6%
5%
5%
3%
5%
page 21	 Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010
Department Highlights
Venture Forum/Faculty Fast
Pitch Fair
As a sequel to the prior year’s Entrepreneurship
Day, Rutgers OTC hosted its first Venture
Forum/Faculty Fast Pitch Fair. Over 30 aca-
demic entrepreneurs from the leading NJ
Research Universities ( NJIT, Princeton, Rutgers
and the University of Medicine and Dentistry)
pitched some of the most exciting technolo-
gies to investors to obtain early stage fund-
ing. Technology Areas include: Biomedical
Engineering, Tissue Engineering, Materials
Science, Pharmacology, Stem Cells, Computer
Science, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Chem­
ical Engineering, Nanotechnology and more.
Over 250 attendees heard the wisdom
of Keynote speaker Mir Imran, Inventor and
Entrepreneur, and listened on the Panel –
What do investors really want? Other high-
lights included a talk on small Business
Innovation and Research Grants (SBIRs) by
Errol Arkilic, Ph.D a director at the National
Science Foundation; and a Poster an Investor/
Inventor Networking Session.
Venture Events
In June 2010 Brad Feld, a prominent VC from
the Boston-based Foundry Group came to
Rutgers to view presentations, demonstrations
and laboratory tours for three Rutgers profes-
sors working in the field of Human Computer
Interaction. The event was organized with
the help of Michael Wiley of the New Jersey
Economic Development Authority. A continu-
ing series of venture events are scheduled in
the coming year to showcase Rutgers start-up
companies and most promising technologies
and assist them with obtaining early stage
funding.
Other venture events were held including
a visit by KEG Capital who reviewed technolo-
gies in a variety of disciplines.
Company Visits
Thoroughout the year, OTC hosts company
meetings to showcase a small group of tech-
nologies to biotech and pharmaceutical com-
panies in the hopes of creating commercializa-
tion partnerships. There were numerous visits
to and by companies in 2009 including Merck,
Quest Diagnostics, Roche, Teva, Jerini, Provid,
JJ, Genzyme, Pfizer, SP. NovoNordisk, BMS,
and Novartis to name a few.
Rutgers University Technology
Commercialization Fund (RU TCF)
In partnership with Johnson and Johnson,
The Rutgers University Technology
Commercialization Fund was created to
advance the commercial potential of Rutgers
technology. The goal of the fund is to make
it more likely that Rutgers inventions will
be licensed to existing companies or serve
as the basis for new companies funded by
equity investors or SBIR funds. The Technology
Commercialization Fund attempts to bridge
the “valley of death” for technologies where
research funding ends but the technology has
not proven its value for commercialization.
In FY2010, 11 inventors had projects fund-
ed. Grants with direct costs of up to $50,000
were awarded for each qualified project to be
used within a period of six months from the
date of the award. A total of $410,000 was
awarded last year.
Collaboration with NJ and
National Associations
OTC team members collaborate with many dif-
ferent local and regional accociations includ-
ing the New Jersey Economic Development
Authority (NJEDA), NJ Jumpstart, BioNJ, the
RD Council of NJ, Bio International, and
the Association of University Technology
Managers (AUTM). Members also attend in-
dustry events to showcase our technologies
and to gain valuable insight into ways Rutgers
can increase its partnership with businesses
throughout the country.
Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 	 page 22
About the Office of Technology Commercialization
Every day students and faculty at Rutgers,
The State University of New Jersey are
creating new discoveries and technology in
numerous disciplines including agriculture,
engineering, computing, physical sciences,
energy, life sciences and pharmaceuticals.
The Office of Technology Commercialization
(OTC) turns Rutgers academic discoveries into
commercial successes.
Our offices serves as a bridge between
Rutgers researchers and commercializa-
tion partners, ensuring the smooth and fast
transfer of intellectual property created at
the University. During the commercialization
process, we provide patenting, marketing,
licensing, start-up company formation and
other commercialization support to our stu-
dent and faculty researchers at three cam-
puses throughout New Jersey. Our Industrial
Agreements area, a unit within OTC, is
responsible for reviewing, drafting, negotiat­
ing and signing industry sponsored contracts
of many types.
Who is the OTC?
Specifically, we:
r Negotiate research contracts, patent licenses
and various other types of agreements
r Transfer the inventions of Rutgers faculty
into practical applications, via licenses and
start-up companies so that they benefit so-
ciety on a local, national and global basis
r Protect intellectual property via trademarks,
copyrights and patents
r Market technologies to companies, entrepre-
neurs and investors via numerous channels
r Assist in start-up company creation
r Educate and serve as a resource for the
Rutgers community on matters relating to
intellectual property, technology commer-
cialization and entrepreneurship.
In pursuit of our objectives, Rutgers,
the flagship comprehensive public research
university, has maintained an active industrial
agreements, patenting and technology com-
mercialization program for over 20 years. Meet
our team members below.
page 23	 Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010
OTC Director:
Executive Director - Dipanjan Nag w
Office Manager - Katie Alter 5
OTC Operations:
Director of Operations - Andrew Wooten -
New Ventures:
Director - Yair Harel r
Physical Sciences and Engineering
Technologies:
Assistant Director – Rick Smith 0
Biomedical Technologies:
Assistant Director - Shrijay Vijayan 9
Licensing and Business Development Manager -
Reza Razavi*
Going forward there are several new initia-
tives in the works at OTC which will benefit the
faculty and the Rutgers community at large. As
mentioned previously, during fiscal year 2011
we will be fully implementing the new intellec-
tual property database, Sophia by Wellspring.
Also in progress is an initiative to improve
the technology marketing process by imple-
menting two new tools. The first tool is a new
competetive intelligence search engine for
generating marketing leads called ZoomInfo.
SalesForce.com, a well known web-based
Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
system, is the second tool. Sales Force assists
in managing customer interactions from the
initial lead through the close of a transac-
tion. Together these systems will facilitate an
industrial-strength marketing program.
To assist in the identification of commer-
cially viable technologies, OTC will be institut-
A Look Ahead
Agriculture/SEBS/NJAES Technologies:
Assistant Director, Licensing  Technology, SEBS -
Leon Segal 2
Administrative Assistant - Patricia Bzdek*
Industrial Agreements:
Associate Director - Charles Wyckoff 7
Contract Manager - Thomas Zambito q
Contract Grant Assistant - Marian Monahan 6
Contract Negotiator - Melissa Matsil 1
Marketing and Communications:
Marketing - Lori Dars 4
Patents/Intellectual Property:
Intellectual Property Manager - Dorian Grumet*
Intellectual Property Manager - Cindy Hanna e
Interns – Jonathan Kwok3 and Michael D’Ecclessis*
Business Administration for OVPR:
Executive Director of Business Administration -
Heidi Szymanski*
Accountant - Wael Hanna 8
Assistant – Sajel Patel =
*- Not available for photograph
ing two industrial review boards, one for life
sciences and one for physical sciences. These
boards consist of respected leaders in a broad
cross-section of industries which correlate
with Rutgers’ research competencies. In addi-
tion to valuable input, they are also a wonder-
ful source of contacts for commercial partners.
As a service to Rutgers and of benefit to
OTC, we are placing more emphasis on the
student internship programs. We are making
use of students across the disciplines of law,
business and science to assist in many facets
of OTC’s everyday activities. These students
gain real-world experience in their specialties
which can be invaluable in the competitive job
markets. Students assist OTC professionals in
projects including technology assessments,
intellectual property protection, contract ne-
gotiations, marketing, licensing, new venture
creation and systems integration.
About the Office of Technology Commercialization
2 34 5 6 7 8 9 0 -
= q w e r
1
Office of Technology Commmercialization
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
ASB III, 3 Rutgers Plaza
New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901
Office: 732 932 0115
Fax: 732 932 0146
http://otc.rutgers.edu
Report Credits:
Editor: Lori Dars
Contributing Writer: Michael D’Ecclessis (Ph.D. 2013)
Photography (pages 2 and 22): Jennifer Miguel-Hellman (class of 2012)
Design: Bruce Colthart Creative LLC

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OTC_Annual_Report_2010

  • 1.
  • 2. Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 page 2 r An increase in the number of disclosures – With 134 disclosures (a 60% increase over FY2009) it was a very prolific year for Rutgers research. The rise in the number of inventions was a direct result of the sub- stantial increase in the research funding at Rutgers which has been steadily on the upside for the last decade. r Consistent Patent Activity – 100 provisional and regular patents were filed in 2010 (com- pared to 94 in FY2009). The IP area also initi- ated a student intern program this past sum- mer. A few of our talented student interns are still contributing to the department; the program has far exceeded our expectations. r Licensing successes - While last year’s economy did not favor business develop- ment, technology transfer activities gen- erally increased as measured by license/ option activity and revenue generation. We executed 80 licenses, options and similar agreements in FY2010. – A majority of the For faculty with a passion for re- search and innova- tion, it’s an excit- ing time to be at Rutgers University. Over the last year, the University has demonstrated an unprecedented commitment to technology commercialization beginning with the warm welcome I received from President McCormick when I began my job as Executive Director last Fall. With over $430 million in total research funding, Rutgers is a research powerhouse not only in the northeast corridor but in the nation. We’ve had many accomplishments in technology commercialization over the past year. I am pleased to highlight some of these below. Director’s Message Table of Contents Director’s Message 2 Faculty Profile 4 - 5 Technology Highlights 6 - 7 Startup Company News Highlights 8 - 14 Center Profile 15 Office of Research Alliances 16 Intellectual Property Group 17 - 18 Corporate Contracts Group 19 Technology Licensing Group 20 Department Highlights 21 About the Office of Technology Commercialization 22 - 23
  • 3. page 3 Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 agreements negotiated are expected to lead to commercialization of university-owned technologies in the near term. r Increase in revenues – Rutgers total licensing revenue increased from $8.1 million to $8.7 million. An additional $224,000 in equity was received by the department. The non-turf- grass revenues increased by over 50 percent from the prior year. r Start-Up successes - A major mission of Rutgers is to positively impact the economy in our home state. Over the years, Rutgers has created more than 70 spin-off compa- nies with a majority of these located within New Jersey. In FY2010 alone, eight new companies based on Rutgers innovations were created. Seven of these were located in NJ, directly increasing the number of jobs in the state. Last year also brought several new initiatives, some have been implemented, and others will be implemented in FY2011. r Increased staffing at OTC – Three new licensing managers - two in life sciences, and one in physical sciences engineer- ing, joined OTC after national searches. We also conducted a nationwide search for our first Director of Operations. We wel- comed Andrew Wooten to this position in September. In addition, we plan on broaden- ing our internship program in the coming year. r Active role in AUTM – The office has been working hard to benchmark peer institu- tions in areas such as entrepreneurship and invention management. The entrepreneur- ship program being initiated at Rutgers is a direct example of President McCormick’s vision of forging Rutgers University ahead in this area. OTC has also played an active role in trade organizations such as AUTM and LES. As a personal commitment, I have become AUTM’s AVP of Professional Development, supporting education as well as international outreach. r New Alliances - As I look ahead, I see an even brighter future as we’ve formed many new relationships with various venture funds including Allied Minds, Intellectual Ventures and Triton Ventures. Recently, Allied Minds signed a Memorandum of Agreement to sup- port Rutgers spinoffs, committing $3 million for investment over the next three years. Intellectual Ventures, a prominent IP based fund in Seattle, signed a partnership agree- ment with Rutgers University. These and other partnerships will be instrumental in ensuring faculty and entrepreneurs have the necessary funds available to create future spinoff companies. In the past, our office has successfully taken technologies from Rutgers research programs into the marketplace to benefit the public - from introducing new varieties of cranberries, to creating computer learning programs for children to designing stents for surgical pa- tients. With Rutgers increased commitment to the OTC, I foresee many more successes such as these. In closing, I would like to acknowledge and thank the faculty, staff and students who dis- closed inventions in FY2010 and participated in the technology commercialization process. Your discoveries are the foundation with which we build our successes upon. Thank you for continuing to drive innovation at Rutgers. Dipanjan Nag Executive Director, OTC
  • 4. Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 page 4 Paula Tallal’s story is not only one of Jersey Roots….Global Reach but also an inspiring story of how one person can truly make a differ- ence in the lives of many. Her neuroscience research that began in a Newark, New Jersey lab has been translated into products that have been sold to over 3 million children in 44 coun- tries– more importantly her research and the resulting products have improved the commu- nications skills of millions. The neuroscientist who started out as an art-history major never imagined being a business person and inventor. After receiv- ing a Ph.D. in experimental psychology from Cambridge University and teaching at Johns Hopkins University and the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), Tallal was recruited to Rutgers Newark, together with Dr. Ian Creese, to create and be the Co-Director of the Center for Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience, one of the first Neuroscience programs dedicated to integrate cognitive and neural sci- ences. It was here she demonstrated that certain listening skills including memory, attention, processing speed and sequencing (MAPS) were the basic cognitive building blocks that support both spoken and written communication. A series of brain training exercises, disguised as computer games, using positive reinforce- ment and based on the MAPS theory were designed and developed by Tallal and her team at Rutgers, in collaboration with a neurosci- ence team at the University of California, San Francisco. These games were introduced at a Rutgers summer computer camp. After four short weeks, the campers had significantly improved their language skills. Tallal explains, “The programs’ games contained mental train- ing exercises that rewired the brain.” The results were published in back to back issues of Science and as the cliché goes, the phone was ringing off the hook. Tallal recalls, “Parents and teachers were calling Rutgers and asking how they could get this program.” Not knowing how to replicate or scale-up the program for a manufacturer, Tallal contacted the Office of Technology Commercialization (previously the Office of Corporate Liaison and Technology Transfer) who had protected her intellectual property. The office helped her find the best outlet to license this technology. This was a new frontier and there were no obvious “buyers.” With the offices’ assistance, Tallal cofounded the Scientific Learning Corporation, along with Drs. Michael Merzenich and Bill Jenkins at the University of California, San Francisco, and Rutgers colleague Steven Miller in 1996. Fast ForWord,® their revolutionary software, was introduced in 1998. “I couldn’t have asked for more sup- port from the various areas at Rutgers,” says Tallal. “From the tech transfer office to the provost and chancellor – the entire university has been extremely supportive both in giving me the background I needed to be success- ful, filing my patents correctly, handling the licensing and setting up the start-up com- pany. “ The Board of Governor’s Professor of Neurosciences and Co-Director of CMBN adds, “My desire was to remain a full-time academic which I was able to do. At the same time, I am able to consult with the company. It allows me to stay involved with the product of my research without it being a conflict of interest.” As of June 30, 2010, Tallal’s inventions have brought in over $5.5 million in royalty income to Rutgers. Today, Scientific Learning Corporation is publicly traded on the NASDAQ and provides education software to K-12 schools, educational institutions, speech and language clinics, and learning and tutorial cen- ters around the world. The company produces 12 different products and holds the rights to 83 issued patents and 26 patents pending. A spin-off company. Posit Science Corportation, targeted at the elderly population, has de- signed software based on the MAPS training technology to head off cognitive dysfunction associated with aging. Faculty Profile Paula Tallal
  • 5. page 5 Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 Fast ForWord® is unlike the typical educa- tional software, which are usually electronic versions of textbooks. Fast ForWord® uses a sophisticated algorithm, based on Tallal and her colleagues’ research that prompts each user uniquely, reflecting his or her strengths or weaknesses, to respond to stimuli. The program is calibrated to reward success- ful responses so that the brain rewires itself neurologically. Results, demonstrated using both behavioral and neuroimaging techniques, include improved test scores, increased self- confidence and reduced costs compared to traditional intervention services. Tallal is especially enthusiastic about the ability to translate her work into so many set- tings – particularly K-12 education. She’s been influential with leading decision makers. She comments, “It’s exciting to bring neurosci- ence to them and explain how the brain can be improved to support learning by combining insights from cogntiive and neural sciences with technology.” What is on the horizon for Tallal? She’s now starting two studies with Rutgers under- graduates using cognitive fitness tests devel- oped for children. The first group is part of the Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (GS-LSAMP), a $5 million, five-year, multiple- school program that aims to substantially increase the numbers of under-represented minority students graduating, and eventu- ally, pursuing careers in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math, also known as STEM fields. The second group is Rutgers students entering the school with lower verbal scores on the accu-placer test. These students must pass developmental writing classes before they can enter the required writing program. “We’re hoping that by using Fast ForWord® we can help these students improve their cogni- tive and communication skills, skills that are so essential to overall academic performance. The passion she feels for her research is evident when Tallal talks about the posi- tive effect Fast ForWord® has had on people’s lives. She has received letters and emails from parents and children who have benefited from the product. Parents whose child has done Fast ForWord® training approach her at scientific conferences to thank her and give her hugs. Most recently, a friend of a neighbors asked if she could meet Paula so she could thank her in person for the change Fast ForWord® had on her child’s life. For additional information, on the Fast ForWord® product series, visit www.scientifi- clearning.com The product was just released for individual in-home use, visit www. brain- sparklearning.com for more information. 2010 At a Glance In FY 2010 the office: r Processed 1149 Corporate Contracts, a 13% increase over the previous year r Generated $18.8 million in industry sponsored projects r Received 134 invention disclosures, a 60% increase over the previous year r Filed 55 Provisional Patent applications r Filed 45 Regular U.S. Patent applications r Received 26 Issued U.S. Patents r Completed 80 agreements (includes patent licenses, options, and comparable agreements) r Generated $8.7 million in licensing income r Created 8 start-up companies; 7 of which are headquartered in New Jersey Faculty Profile
  • 6. Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 page 6 Technology Highlights They are 3-D, they are intricate, and they are unique. The folding technologies created in the laboratory of Dr. Elsayed, Rutgers department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, enable a new generation of stronger, lighter and lower cost structural panel materials. The patented technology, a continuous folding concept and a unique process that creates 3-D engineering designs, endows conventional sheet materi- als with exceptional and superior performance characteristics. Paper once folded according to a predefined pattern results in high strength, light weight and easy to produce products. The technologies are also capable of folding a wide range of material (copper, aluminum, paper, plastic, etc.) into intricate designs. All these have one common feature: their ability to be produced by folding a flat sheet of material. Physical Sciences – Folding Technology Created from a relatively new theory of mathematics, the complex folded sheet structures are generally polygonally faceted surfaces that repeat in two directions within parallel planes. The surfaces are nearly zero curvature (NXC), that is the geometry will fold and unfold into a flat plane and are called DPFs (doubly periodic folded surfaces). Topline Containers, LLC recently licensed the “paper” applications of the folding tech- nology. Topline is currently conducting exten- sive testing and evaluation of this technology. It plans to build a production line in 2011. The technology is available for licensing in other applications and can be used to provide stronger, lighter and cost effective alterna- tives for walls, floors, roofs, modular shelters, recreational vehicles, containers, pallets and other industries.
  • 7. page 7 Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 While significant progress in the develop- ment of a single drug or diagnostic agent is worthy of praise, Rutgers Pharmaceutics Professor II Patrick Sinko and his labo- ratory research assistant Manjeet Deshmukh have developed a novel drug and diagnostic delivery system using poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) nanogels that prom- ises to improve the safety and efficacy of many existing drug and diagnostic agents.  The PEG nanogels are capable of forming stable aggregates of different sizes that allow for a specific organ/cell type to be targeted.  This specificity is crucial for diseases such as tumor-based cancers where a high dosage is needed in a very specific region of the body.  In addition to the ability to stabilize and solubi- lize the carried agent so that it may reach the Life Sciences - PEG Nanogels intended target and deliver a full dosage, the delivery system allows for a reduced risk of complications due to its abil- ity to prevent a wide disper- sal of the medicinal agent throughout the body.    Since the PEG nano- gels are highly biocompat- ible and the Food and Drug Administration has classified PEG as “generally regarded as safe” (GRAS) , this new drug and diagnostic delivery technology provides the rare opportunity for rapid transi- tion from the laboratory to use in humans. The technol- ogy will improve current treatments with few, if any, side effects in healthy tissues. Most re- cently, Professor Sinko received a major grant from the National Cancer Institute to treat lung cancer using this approach. What is IP? Intellectual Property What is a Patent? An exclusive right granted for an invention. Who can apply for a patent? Only the actual inventor(s) How long is the exclusivity period of a Patent? Twenty years What is OTC? At Rutgers, OTC stands for The Office of Technology Commercialization What is LES? LES is the Licensing Executives Society (LES).  This is an international profes- sional society with nearly 11,000 members engaged in the development, use, transfer, marketing, and management of intellectual property. What is technology transfer? Technology transfer is a term used to describe a formal transfer of rights to use and commercialize new discoveries and innovations resulting from scientific research to another party. Universities typically transfer technol- ogy through protecting (using patents and copyrights), then licensing new innovations.(Source: AUTM website) Did you know? Technology Highlights Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) image of aggregated nanogel particles (ANPs). Inset: In vivo imaging system (IVIS) image of fluorescently attached ANPs showing highly selective accumu- lation in a rat lung.
  • 8. Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 page 8 Startup Company News Highlights A measure of success for any technology commercialization office is when faculty and students turn their innovations into viable companies. In FY2010, a total of eight (8) new companies were started from Rutgers, helping boost the local economy and showcasing the University as an entrepreneurial leader in the state. In addition to forming new companies, the OTC assists in developing the numerous start-up companies that have been founded on University technologies during the past twenty-one years. Over 50 of these companies are viable today, with the majority based in New Jersey. Professor April Benasich spends much of her time at Rutgers Center for Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience laboratory inter- acting with babies. For over 15 years, Dr. Benasich, the director of the Infancy Studies Laboratory, has focused her research on brain development in infancy and early childhood, specifically the neural processes necessary for normal language and cognitive develop- ment. The ability to perform fine-grained acoustic analyses for non-speech sounds, in the tens of millisecond range, is critically important to analyzing and discriminating the speech stream. Most of the timing cues involved in speech perception occur in a time scale of tens to hundreds of milliseconds. Analysis of these timing cues, allows the child’s brain to set up language maps and promote automatic language processing. Dr. Benasich was the first to show that in infants this ability to analyze non-speech is highly predictive of later language. A child who is poor at process- ing rapid, sequential acoustic information, is at much higher risk of developing a language disorder. Over the last eight years, Dr. Benasich has created a technology (patent-pending), that can identify infants at highest risk of poor language outcomes and “normalize” and optimize information processing at a very early age, before language is acquired, by improving their processing of ongoing rapid, sequential acoustic information. In 2008 AAB, LLC, a spin-off company founded by Professor Benasich, licensed the technology with a goal of bringing this poten- tially life-changing invention to the public. The beneficiaries are 4 – 6 month olds who have a higher risk of developing a language disorder. These could be children with a family history of language disor- ders such as language impairment and/or dyslexia or very pre-term infants. According to Dr. Benasich, research studies have shown that using the interactive application she has designed allows for very early assessment and interven- tion. She comments, “You can change the efficiency of the child’s processing using certain sounds and visual stimuli to promote development of optimal brain networks. Thus a language disorder might be prevented entirely from occurring. This intervention also appears to increase the effectiveness of information processing in normally developing children as well.” AAB assembled a team of consultant experts in marketing, production development and engineering who are designing a series of prototypes which they can market to a partner company in the technology or educational toy industries. The company is developing a more AAB, L.L.C. Elise Hardwick, 4 1/2 months old, participates in one of a series of field trials to determine what types of toys best capture the attention of young infants.
  • 9. page 9 Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 general fun, toy-like device for the gen- eral public—to support and enhance babies’ cognitive and language development. Also in progress is a more complex clinical tool that would be used in doctor’s offices and clinics to assess the baby and then deliver individual- ized treatment to correct potential language or cognitive delays. Dr. Benasich concludes, “I think we can have a substantial impact on improving children’s language and cognitive develop- ment. The result of my research and AAB’s work will be a fun, exciting and technologically sophisticated device for children that will en- courage parents and children to interact with each other. “ Though AAB is currently self-funded, the company will be looking at potential partners for sublicensing over the next year. “Quite Possibly the World’s most perfect building Materials” is a tagline that is ex- tremely well suited to Axion International. The New Providence, New Jersey company designs, develops and manufac- tures a new generation of eco-friendly structural building materials that are unlike anything on the market. The patented technologies, developed by Thomas Nosker’s team of scientists at Rutgers Department of Materials Science and Engineering, transform recycled consumer and industrial plastics into a myriad of structural products includ- ing railroads, marine pilings and bridges. The American–made products are stronger, more cost effective and longer lasting than wood, steel or concrete. The company began operations in 2007 and certainly reached a breakthrough in 2009 when At Fort Bragg, N.C., a 70-ton M-1 Abrams tank, too heavy for many bridges, repeatedly crossed a bridge made of Axion’s 100% recy- cled plastic. The bridge crossing was featured in Business Week in September 2009. Other Axion highlights in the previous year included: In June 2010 the Company announced it received its first two purchase orders for railroad crossties made out of Recycled Structural Composite (RSC) by Moroccan National Railway Company (ONCF). ONCF operates more than 1100 miles (1900 kilometers) of track throughout Morocco (North Africa) and carried over 29 million pas- sengers last year. Innovative Composites International Inc. announced in February 2010 that it signed a Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) with Axion for the companies to utilize their respective complementary technologies in several projects and exchange thermoplastic products know-how. ICI has utilized Axion’s patented thermoplastic material in the design of the state-of-the-art composite containers developed jointly by ICI and Universal Storage Containers, LLC (USC), the exclusive marketer and distributer of the finished containers, un- der the Z2-Box™ name. For more information visit www.axionintl.com. Axion International Startup Company News Highlights
  • 10. Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 page 10 Connotate is a leading provider of solutions that help companies collect data and content from the Web. Leveraging patented technology developed at Rutgers University, Connotate provides clients with customized real-time Web information extraction capabilities that help organizations cost effectively collect, analyze and distribute high-volumes of unstruc- tured Web data. Connotate’s solution helps individual organiza- tions detect changes, collect and orga- nize data from client-targeted Web sources relevant to specific data needs. Connotate’s Connotate Inc. clients rely on real-time data – ranging from a few hundred to millions of Web pages per day – and this information powers products and services from some of the most successful data-driven companies in the world. Located in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Connotate is rapidly expanding both its client base and employee staff. Clients include large publishing firms such as McGraw-Hill, Associated Press and Thomson Reuters, data providers, govern- ment agencies, financial services firms and healthcare and pharmaceutical companies. Most recently, the company gained a new interim CEO, Thomas Meyer. Below are a few of Connotate’s exciting high- lights for FY 2010. r In August 2010, Connotate’s Agent Community GEN2™ was recognized by KMWorld for the 5th consecutive year as a “Trend-Setting Product.” According to Hugh McKellar, KMWorld editor-in-chief, “This year, more than 600 products were assessed by our judging panel…Connotate’s solu- tion stands out for being truly accessible to business users, easy-to-use, resilient and extremely scalable.” r In June 2010, Connotate raised $5.25 million in funding led by 406 Ventures. The company will use the new capital to increase its prod- uct offerings and expand sales and marketing operations to meet the growing demand for real-time data in key vertical markets. r In February 2010, Connotate was again named to KMWorld’s Exclusive List, “100 Companies That Matter in Knowledge Management.” This marks the 6th con- secutive year Connotate has been named to the list, and demonstrates the com- pany’s continued leadership in knowledge management. r Connotate was named to EContent Magazine’s “Top 100 Companies that Matter Most to the Digital Content Industry.” The judges noted product adaptations and in- novations when selecting Connotate for in- clusion on the list for 2009 and commented that “Connotate’s innovative approach to harvesting and delivering web data is mak- ing a lasting impact on the digital content industry…” r Connotate was recognized by analyst firm IDC as an Innovative “Information Access Company Under $100M to Watch.”  “IDC recognized Connotate for its innovative approach to harvesting and delivering Web information quickly to its customers in multiple formats, including targeted alerts, spreadsheets, data streams and time-series trending data that can be customized by each user, and shared with others,” said Sue Feldman, IDC’s VP for Search and Discovery technologies.   For more information, visit www.connotate.com. Startup Company News Highlights
  • 11. page 11 Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 Rutgers licensee, REVA Medical Inc., has achieved a major milestone in its efforts to bring its innovative products to market. Recently the company filed for a $63 mil- lion Initial Public Offering on the Australian Stock Exchange. The company previously raised approximately $57 million in venture capital funding from groups including Domain Partners, Saints Capital, Cerberus Capital Management, Group Outcome, and Brookside Capital. They have also demonstrated promis- ing results from ongoing clinical studies. Plans are being made to apply for regulatory approvals in Australia and Europe before seeking clearance in the United States. REVA is targeting the large medical device market for coronary stents. The market for metal coronary stents used in patients with arteries that are more than 50% blocked is currently in excess of $5.5 billion worldwide. REVA’s technical advances could substantially expand this market while addressing a critical unmet need for cardiac patients. REVA is one of the leaders in the race to develop a fully dissolvable or resorbable cardiac stent. These stents are seen as a great step forward in cardiac care relative to the metal stents currently in use. Stents are tiny mesh tubes that are used to prop open previ- ously clogged arteries. Many existing stents can be coated with drugs to prevent a build-up of scar tissue. Scar tissue can cause a blood vessel to become re-blocked. However, drug- coated stents slow the healing process and carry a higher risk of blood clots that can also block the vessel. REVA and others in this race believe that fully dissolvable stents can avoid these complications. Thus physicians who are wary of utilizing permanent metal stents in pa- tients whose arteries are not yet blocked, may be willing to try a temporary, bioabsorbable one. The approach is being validated by the efforts of industry giant Abbott Laboratories. And while Abbott’s efforts are beneficial to all competitors in the field, REVA believes that its technology has distinct advantages. The enabling technology behind REVA’s lead product, the “ReZolve” stent, is a revolu- tionary new biomaterial developed in the labo- ratory of Professor Joachim Kohn at Rutgers New Jersey Center for Biomaterials. After sev- eral years of strong research collaboration with Professor Kohn, and the development of new intellectual property, REVA and Rutgers re- cently negotiated and signed a revised license agreement that will enable REVA to aggres- sively pursue its commercialization efforts. For more information, visit www.teamreva.com. REVA Medical Inc. Startup Company News Highlights
  • 12. Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 page 12 Startup Company News Highlights Strongly encouraged by high schools and col- leges to make the highly successful Rutgers Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR) system available to other colleges and universities, Rutgers created a spinoff company, Scarlet Computing Solutions, LLC (SCS) in 2009 to launch STARS (MyStarsRecord.com). STARS is a product that makes the college application and review process easier for students who can now self-report their school transcript information, including courses, grades, and summary information such as GPA and rank- in-class. This product also improves the envi- ronment by elimi- nating costly paper processes. Parents and guidance coun- selors no longer have to wonder whether a transcript was sent and received successfully via postal mail. Admissions application processing and review have been revolutionized by SRAR, eliminating tens of thousands of manual transactions. Development of the SRAR began in spring 2008, and went into full production in September 2008 for the 2009 admissions cycle. In the first year of use, Rutgers “highly recommended” using the SRAR, and over 11,000 SRARs were submitted successfully. By year two (2010 cycle), based on the posi- tive results from the previous year, Rutgers “required” applicants to use the SRAR. To date, there have been over 25,000 received from first-year applicants. An indirect benefit of the program is the ability to reallocate staff previously working on transcript processing to more strategic tasks. SCS founder, Dr. Paul Johnson (Rutgers alumnus of RC, GSNB, and GSE), already has seen many benefits to Rutgers for this ven- ture. “Working with other outstanding aca- demic institutions on STARS has significantly improved the product by obtaining excellent recommendations for feature enhancements which benefit Rutgers, too. Since we are also learning how to integrate STARS with com- mercial student information systems such as Banner and PeopleSoft, Rutgers will have in- house expertise on connecting other Rutgers data and systems to our forthcoming com- mercial student system, which is currently in the planninganalysis stage.” Paul also praises Vice President for Enrollment Management, Courtney McAnuff, as being integral to SRAR/ STARS success. “Courtney has been highly supportive of innovation such as the SRAR and has impressed upon enrollment management colleagues at other universities that they, too, can improve their operational efficiency via STARS.” SRAR/STARS is rapidly advancing in technology and spreading in the market. Two important initiatives will take place in AY 2010- 11. The first is pre-college programs at Rutgers, starting with Rutgers Future Scholars Program, will be able to track progress and measure outcomes for their high school students as early as ninth grade with the SRARSTARS. The second initiative is that STARS will support international student (e.g., O-level exams) and transfer student records. Two major clients from the SUNY system, Binghamton and Stony Brook Universities, will be using STARS for this academic year, and other colleges and uni- versities have also expressed interest in the product. For additional information, please contact SCS at http://mystarsrecord.com/contact_us.html or by phone at 732-964-9040. Scarlet Computing Solutions
  • 13. page 13 Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 Silagene Inc. began operations in FY2009 based on an exclusive license to the U1 Adaptor technology developed by Samuel Gunderson’s team at Rutgers University. This brand-new method for silencing genes works via a completely different mechanism from cur- rent techniques. To date, gene “silencing” has been dominated by only a few technologies that are associated with problems of delivery, stability, and immune reactivity. The ability to “switch off” genes in living cells and organisms is indispensable in the discovery of gene func- tions, and has been increasingly recognized as a viable option to treat many genetic diseases. In addition, combining U1 Adaptors and RNA interference is a potential dual approach which could allow these molecular therapies to work at lower doses. Silagene, Inc. Based in Hillsborough, New Jersey, Silagene received a significant subcontract from Integrated DNA Technologies (IDT) cor- poration in 2009 to further develop the technology in tissue culture. In addition, in the Spring of 2010, Dr. Gunderson was the first Rutgers re- cipient of a $200,000 Program Award from the University City Science Center QED Proof-of-Concept Program. Of this award, Silagene received $77,000 and business advice for one year. The QED funding will allow Silagene to do in vivo testing of the U1 Adaptor technology to assess its therapeutic potential in two projects – tu- mor suppression and cholesterol reduction. For more information, visit www.silagene.com. TAXIS Pharmaceuticals is focused on the dis- covery and development of pharmaceuticals targeting multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacterial pathogens. Formed in March 2009 by scien- tific founders Dr. Edmond LaVoie of Rutgers University, Dr. Daniel Pilch of The University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey and Chief Executive Officer, Gregory G. Mario, the company has identified new classes of pro- prietary antibiotic agents that exploit a novel mechanism of action distinct from any other antibiotic in clinical use today. The alarming rise in the number of MDR bacterial pathogens that have emerged and spread in recent years has dramatically reduced the utility of the current arsenal of antibiotics. Two such MDR pathogens in par- ticular have been recognized as major threats to biodefense and global public health, methi- cillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE). The TAXIS team has designed and is in the process of implementing nine unique series of chemical compounds targeting the essential bacterial cell division protein, FtsZ. TAXIS’ fam- ily of compounds selectively target the FtsZ protein, thereby inhibiting FtsZ-catalyzed GTP hydrolysis, FtsZ polymerization, the formation of FtsZ Z-rings, and cell division, and ultimate- ly resulting in bacterial cell death. Taxis has several lead compounds in pre-clinical stages of de- velopment, with the goal of identifying good clinical candidates for the treatment of multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacterial infections in 2011. The company ex- pects its first compound to enter clinical trials in 2012. These agents potentially represent the first transformational innovation in antibiotic technology in more than three decades. For more information, visit www.taxispharma.com. TAXIS Pharmaceuticals Startup Company News Highlights
  • 14. Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 page 14 Since its inception in 1998, TYRX sci- entists, engineers and marketers have focused on a singular goal — creating unique, cost-effective solutions that ad- dress surgical-site infections (SSIs) and inflammatory tissue-reaction associated with implanted medical devices. TYRX, located in Monmouth Junction, New Jersey, is an FDA registered, ISO certified medical device manufacturer of drug- device combination products utilizing novel polymer technology, includ- ing a world-wide license from Rutgers which covers a broad range of resorbable materials and drug delivery technology. This technology was based on the research of Dr. Joachim Kohn, Board of Governors Professor of Chemistry. The com- pany reached a major implant milestone in FY2010. TYRX announced in June that it had successfully implanted its AIGISrx Envelope device in 10,000 patients in the United States. The AIGISrx Envelope is an anti- bacterial mesh technology that securely holds a pacemaker (PM) or implantable cardioverter TYRX, Inc. defibrillator (ICD) in place to create a stable environment, while delivering antimicrobial agents, rifampin and minocycline. These anti- microbial agents have been shown to reduce infections associated with medical devices in multiple randomized controlled trials. “Reaching this 10,000th AIGISrx implant milestone is a remarkable achievement and a testament to our team who has worked tirelessly and enthusiastically to develop this important technology to address a signifi- cant clinical need,” said Robert White, TYRX President and CEO. “Approximately one out of 50 patients in the U.S. experiences a major infection problem at a cost of approximately $50,000 per patient. The AIGISrx Antibacterial Envelope provides hospitals and clinicians with a way to improve patient outcomes while re- ducing the corresponding economic burden.” For more information, visit www.tyrx.com. Startup Company News Highlights
  • 15. page 15 Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 Established in 2006 with an $18 million grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF), the Engineering Research Center for Structured Organic Particulate Systems (C-SOPS) gener- ates the science and technology needed to develop and manufac- ture structured organic particulate systems- pharmaceutical dosage forms such as tablets are a key example. While the Center’s current focus is on the pharmaceuti- cal industry, results can also be applied to the food, nutraceutical, and consumer products industries among oth- ers. Rutgers is the lead institution in the multi- university consortium which includes Purdue, New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), and the University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez. Professor Fernando Muzzio of Rutgers serves as the Center director. The Center has advanced many aspects of the science and technology necessary for understanding the structure of formulated solid dosage forms and their manufacture. The research program includes controlling how materials are formed, how manufacturing processes can be designed, scaled up and opti- mized, how final products can be characterized and modeled, and most importantly, how all of these can be integrated into a continuous manufacturing system operating in closed loop Center Profile The NSF Engineering Research Center for Structured Organic Particulate Systems (C-SOPS) control. An indication of the Center’s suc- cess in research is evidenced by the 36 peer reviewed publications last year, in addition to more than 30 other papers, and numer- ous presentations and posters at national meetings. Close interaction with industry is a de- fining characteristic of C-SOPS. Twenty nine companies are cur- rently formal mem- bers of the Center; these include end use formulators (phar- maceutical, food, and consumer products companies) and their technology suppliers who provide equip- ment, instruments, and software. This close collaboration between academia and industry has enabled rapid advancement in relevant science and technology. Industrial mentors provide input which accelerates progress, while the end user requirements (voice of the customer) are established at the beginning and revalidated throughout the process. Potential commercialization routes and partners are identified early. The success and promise of the Center and its industrial partners has been validated by the award of an additional $2 million in NSF funding, specifically to further accelerate the commercialization of Center technology.
  • 16. Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 page 16 Engaging Companies in Early Research Corporate Relationship Development In an effort to expand the relationship of the University with Industry, the Rutgers University Office of the Vice President for Research and Graduate and Professional Education has launched the Office of Research Alliances (ORA) with the mission of providing a “one-stop concierge service” for industries to engage Rutgers’ researchers, centers and ca- pabilities while their research ideas are still be- ing designed and developed. An important step in the conversion of Federal State supported research ideas into commercial products is technology modification for commercial appli- cation, such as sponsored research, small scale animal studies, center memberships col- laboration, SBIR/STTR grants and other corpo- rate investments into the University. The ORA is a gateway for companies to engage with the University early on in the theoretical stage in relation to technology transfer/licensing. When companies seek to collaborate with Rutgers or utilize Rutgers’ facilities, the ORA is your first stop to start the discussion. The ORA serves as part-information center and part-networking hub for companies who wish to engage the University. By working in Office of Research Alliances collaboration with existing offices, the ORA is a single-point of contact within the University, fostering a smooth collaboration between Industry and the University offices. As Industry shifts into a more Open Innovation Model, the ORA’s responsibilities are to transform the University into an outsourced, fixed RD partner. As RD projects often take time to develop, the ORA is able to assist by creating a pipeline for both Industry and OTC to come to the negotiation table. The ORA is comprised of both scientific experts and seasoned business managers who understand the needs and speak the language of both the Rutgers and Industry communi- ties. Reporting to Richard Mammone Ph.D., the Associate Vice President of Corporate Venture Alliances, the ORA includes Associate Directors Thomas Richardson Ph.D. and Steven Ortley with varied experience in private and public sector. From drug discovery to clean wind turbines to mobile commerce, their experience in crossing from University to Industry will be a valuable resource to Rutgers and Industry alike. Whether you are a busi- ness leader in the community or a Rutgers researcher, the ORA is your new resource to facilitate early discussions about collaboration and sponsored projects.
  • 17. page 17 Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 Intellectual Property Group Rutgers faculty had a very active year in FY2010.  The department received 134 new in- vention disclosures from researchers through- out the university, a 60% increase from the previous year. The disclosures were closely split between life sciences  (46 percent) and physical sciences/engineering disciplines (41 percent).  Agriculture technologies accounted for the remaining 13 percent of new inventions. To better service our faculty clients, OTC created a shortened disclosure form, the Notice of Invention (NOI), to make the first report of an invention easier for faculty.  The form must be submitted to OTC  to preserve proprietary rights prior to discussing the in- vention with others, including those who are interested in possible commercial or sponsored research partnerships, and prior to any “pub- lication” of the invention which might jeopar- dize the University’s ability to obtain a patent on the invention. As part of the revised invention disclosure process, a more detailed patent disclosure form (pdf) is requested for inventions that have significant commercial potential.   In the next fiscal year, the department plans to use an online disclosure form, further streamlining the invention disclosure process.  Disclosure Activity Area # of Disclosures rLife Sciences 61 rPhysical Sciences / Engineering 55 rAgriculture / SEBS 18 134 FY10 Invention Disclosures by Area 41% 13% 46%
  • 18. Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 page 18 Intellectual Property Group OTC’s Patent Group manages the Intellectual Property (IP) developed throughout Rutgers campuses and in conjunction with collabora- tors outside the university. The majority of OTC’s IP protec­tion activity is concentrated on pursuing patents although the department also handles copyrights and trademarks where appropriate. In FY 2010 there was continued growth in the Rutgers patent portfolio. In FY2010, 55 Provisional U.S. Applications for Patents were filed; 45 Regular U.S. Applications for Patents were filed and 26 U.S. Plant and Utility Patents were issued to Rutgers. The office’s overall intellectual property reflects the diversity and innovative research taking place at the University. Examples of successfully commercialized Rutgers inven- tions come from a variety of areas within the broader classifications of agricultural, life sci- ences, materials sciences and engineering and computer sciences disciplines. In May 2010, the Biennial Patent Awards Celebration was held to highlight the signifi- cant contributions made by Rutgers’ inven- tors in the pursuit of United States patents.   The prestigious event was held at President Patenting Activity McCormick’s residence with over 35 honorees in attendance. The Patent Group participated in a special Boot Camp in September 2009 that was of- fered to faculty, staff and students to educate them on the process involved in obtaining pat- ent protection and exploring the role that an inventor plays in helping secure a patent and commercialize his technology.  In addition to these activities, significant steps were taken in the initial migration to Sophia, a more comprehensive Intellectual Property database. During fiscal year 2011 we will be fully implementing this web-based system which will make it convenient for in- novators to access and view their intellectual property portfolio from their office, home or anywhere they choose. Simple information requests will be available around the clock. Another exciting feature of the system is the ability to enter technology disclosures on- line. This paperless system will streamline the process of submitting new innovations to OTC. Other improvements included updating internal policies and procedures and pursuing a robust legal intern and extern program. 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 Issued US PatentsRegular Patent ApppsProvisional Patent Apps FY 10FY 09FY 08FY 07FY 06FY 05FY 04FY 03FY 02FY 01 U.S. Applications Issued and Applications Filed by Fiscal Year r Provisional Patent Applications r Regular Patent Applications r Issued US Patents
  • 19. page 19 Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 Corporate Contracts Group In spite of the prolonged recession, Corporate Contracts experienced another record year in the number of contractual transactions processed in fiscal year 2010. Building on last year’s record-setting number of 1,013 documents, in the 2010 fiscal year the group processed 1,149 transactions (a 13% increase). Corporate Funding amounts also increased significantly during the same period. The $18.8 million in funding received in fiscal year 2010 represents a 10.5% increase from FY2009 figures of $17.0 million. Corporate Contracts is an integral component of the Office of Technology Commercialization. The group is responsible for reviewing, drafting, negotiating and signing in- dustrial-sponsored research and service proj- ects. The types of contracts processed by the Corporate Contracts group includes research, service, collaboration, inter-institutional, master, SBIR/STTR and other special agree- ments. In addition, Corporate Contracts has the overall responsibility for material transfer and confidentiality agreements regardless of the other contracting entity (non-profit, govern- ment, and for-profit corporations). A new initiative within the department included the implementation of a fully auto- mated material transfer and confidentiality agreement processing system called EchoSign that includes electronic signature capabil- ity. The impetus for this new system was to improve turnaround time. Corporate Contracts Activity Contract success stories in fiscal year 2010 include: r $1.2MM for continuation of research with a young materials company r A $597K subcontract from a NJ-based prime contractor r $541K for continuation of research with a small pharmaceutical company r A $300K AARA funded subcontract from a mid-sized high-technology company r A $236K service agreement with a large utility corporation 0 5 10 15 20 25 FY 10FY 09FY 08FY 07FY 06FY 05FY 04FY 03FY 02FY 01 Dollars(Millions) 16.7 17.0 18.9 14.3 20.3 21.0 24.8 16.1 17.0 18.8 Corporate Funding by Fiscal Year
  • 20. Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 page 20 Technology Licensing Group Finding a potential licensee for the many technologies OTC receives is one of the most challenging and important tasks we have. The licensing group is responsible not only for reviewing invention disclosures and assisting with patenting decisions but also for identify- ing potential licensees, drafting term sheets and licenses, negotiating options, licenses, and other agreements with qualified candidates and assisting in starting spin-off companies, when appropriate. A license agreement grants the right to use some of the University’s intellectual property. This is in exchange for the licensee’s commitment to provide the resources required for further development and commercializa- tion of the invention and to pay the University appropriate compensation. Depending on the technology and its market potential, either an exclusive or a nonexclusive license may be offered. In addition to generating royalty in- come, technology licensing provides University researchers with additional funds for research and development. In FY 2010, OTC received $8.7 million in licensing revenue, an increase from the $8.1 million received in FY2009. An addi- tional $224,000 in equity was received by the department. There was a significant amount of new licensing activity last year and as a result, 80 licenses, options and comparable agreements were executed in FY2010, a 30% increase from the previous year. Technology Licensing 0 20 40 60 80 100 FY 10FY 09FY 08FY 07FY 06FY 05FY 04FY 03FY 02FY 01 42 15 19 25 26 35 72 96 63 82 0 2 4 6 8 10 Equity Holdings License Revenue FY 10FY 09FY 08FY 07FY 06FY 05FY 04FY 03FY 02FY 01 $4.8 $0.5 $4.0 $0.6 $5.1 $5.4 $2.2 $4.3 $2.2 $5.7 $1.6 $1.1 $7.7 $8.1 $8.1 $0.5 $0.3 $0.0 $8.7 $0.2 Licenses and Options Executed by Fiscal Year FY 2010 Licenses and Options Executed by Area Annual Licensing Revenue and Equity Holdings* Area # of Agreements rCranberries 30 rDogwood-Holly 16 rBiomed-Pharma 9 rIT 6 rOther Fruit 5 rEnergy-Environment 4 rMaterials 4 rMisc. 4 rElectronics-Instruments 2 80 37% 20% 11% 8% 6% 5% 5% 3% 5%
  • 21. page 21 Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 Department Highlights Venture Forum/Faculty Fast Pitch Fair As a sequel to the prior year’s Entrepreneurship Day, Rutgers OTC hosted its first Venture Forum/Faculty Fast Pitch Fair. Over 30 aca- demic entrepreneurs from the leading NJ Research Universities ( NJIT, Princeton, Rutgers and the University of Medicine and Dentistry) pitched some of the most exciting technolo- gies to investors to obtain early stage fund- ing. Technology Areas include: Biomedical Engineering, Tissue Engineering, Materials Science, Pharmacology, Stem Cells, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Chem­ ical Engineering, Nanotechnology and more. Over 250 attendees heard the wisdom of Keynote speaker Mir Imran, Inventor and Entrepreneur, and listened on the Panel – What do investors really want? Other high- lights included a talk on small Business Innovation and Research Grants (SBIRs) by Errol Arkilic, Ph.D a director at the National Science Foundation; and a Poster an Investor/ Inventor Networking Session. Venture Events In June 2010 Brad Feld, a prominent VC from the Boston-based Foundry Group came to Rutgers to view presentations, demonstrations and laboratory tours for three Rutgers profes- sors working in the field of Human Computer Interaction. The event was organized with the help of Michael Wiley of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority. A continu- ing series of venture events are scheduled in the coming year to showcase Rutgers start-up companies and most promising technologies and assist them with obtaining early stage funding. Other venture events were held including a visit by KEG Capital who reviewed technolo- gies in a variety of disciplines. Company Visits Thoroughout the year, OTC hosts company meetings to showcase a small group of tech- nologies to biotech and pharmaceutical com- panies in the hopes of creating commercializa- tion partnerships. There were numerous visits to and by companies in 2009 including Merck, Quest Diagnostics, Roche, Teva, Jerini, Provid, JJ, Genzyme, Pfizer, SP. NovoNordisk, BMS, and Novartis to name a few. Rutgers University Technology Commercialization Fund (RU TCF) In partnership with Johnson and Johnson, The Rutgers University Technology Commercialization Fund was created to advance the commercial potential of Rutgers technology. The goal of the fund is to make it more likely that Rutgers inventions will be licensed to existing companies or serve as the basis for new companies funded by equity investors or SBIR funds. The Technology Commercialization Fund attempts to bridge the “valley of death” for technologies where research funding ends but the technology has not proven its value for commercialization. In FY2010, 11 inventors had projects fund- ed. Grants with direct costs of up to $50,000 were awarded for each qualified project to be used within a period of six months from the date of the award. A total of $410,000 was awarded last year. Collaboration with NJ and National Associations OTC team members collaborate with many dif- ferent local and regional accociations includ- ing the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), NJ Jumpstart, BioNJ, the RD Council of NJ, Bio International, and the Association of University Technology Managers (AUTM). Members also attend in- dustry events to showcase our technologies and to gain valuable insight into ways Rutgers can increase its partnership with businesses throughout the country.
  • 22. Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 page 22 About the Office of Technology Commercialization Every day students and faculty at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey are creating new discoveries and technology in numerous disciplines including agriculture, engineering, computing, physical sciences, energy, life sciences and pharmaceuticals. The Office of Technology Commercialization (OTC) turns Rutgers academic discoveries into commercial successes. Our offices serves as a bridge between Rutgers researchers and commercializa- tion partners, ensuring the smooth and fast transfer of intellectual property created at the University. During the commercialization process, we provide patenting, marketing, licensing, start-up company formation and other commercialization support to our stu- dent and faculty researchers at three cam- puses throughout New Jersey. Our Industrial Agreements area, a unit within OTC, is responsible for reviewing, drafting, negotiat­ ing and signing industry sponsored contracts of many types. Who is the OTC? Specifically, we: r Negotiate research contracts, patent licenses and various other types of agreements r Transfer the inventions of Rutgers faculty into practical applications, via licenses and start-up companies so that they benefit so- ciety on a local, national and global basis r Protect intellectual property via trademarks, copyrights and patents r Market technologies to companies, entrepre- neurs and investors via numerous channels r Assist in start-up company creation r Educate and serve as a resource for the Rutgers community on matters relating to intellectual property, technology commer- cialization and entrepreneurship. In pursuit of our objectives, Rutgers, the flagship comprehensive public research university, has maintained an active industrial agreements, patenting and technology com- mercialization program for over 20 years. Meet our team members below.
  • 23. page 23 Office of technology commercialization r Annual Report 2009-2010 OTC Director: Executive Director - Dipanjan Nag w Office Manager - Katie Alter 5 OTC Operations: Director of Operations - Andrew Wooten - New Ventures: Director - Yair Harel r Physical Sciences and Engineering Technologies: Assistant Director – Rick Smith 0 Biomedical Technologies: Assistant Director - Shrijay Vijayan 9 Licensing and Business Development Manager - Reza Razavi* Going forward there are several new initia- tives in the works at OTC which will benefit the faculty and the Rutgers community at large. As mentioned previously, during fiscal year 2011 we will be fully implementing the new intellec- tual property database, Sophia by Wellspring. Also in progress is an initiative to improve the technology marketing process by imple- menting two new tools. The first tool is a new competetive intelligence search engine for generating marketing leads called ZoomInfo. SalesForce.com, a well known web-based Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system, is the second tool. Sales Force assists in managing customer interactions from the initial lead through the close of a transac- tion. Together these systems will facilitate an industrial-strength marketing program. To assist in the identification of commer- cially viable technologies, OTC will be institut- A Look Ahead Agriculture/SEBS/NJAES Technologies: Assistant Director, Licensing Technology, SEBS - Leon Segal 2 Administrative Assistant - Patricia Bzdek* Industrial Agreements: Associate Director - Charles Wyckoff 7 Contract Manager - Thomas Zambito q Contract Grant Assistant - Marian Monahan 6 Contract Negotiator - Melissa Matsil 1 Marketing and Communications: Marketing - Lori Dars 4 Patents/Intellectual Property: Intellectual Property Manager - Dorian Grumet* Intellectual Property Manager - Cindy Hanna e Interns – Jonathan Kwok3 and Michael D’Ecclessis* Business Administration for OVPR: Executive Director of Business Administration - Heidi Szymanski* Accountant - Wael Hanna 8 Assistant – Sajel Patel = *- Not available for photograph ing two industrial review boards, one for life sciences and one for physical sciences. These boards consist of respected leaders in a broad cross-section of industries which correlate with Rutgers’ research competencies. In addi- tion to valuable input, they are also a wonder- ful source of contacts for commercial partners. As a service to Rutgers and of benefit to OTC, we are placing more emphasis on the student internship programs. We are making use of students across the disciplines of law, business and science to assist in many facets of OTC’s everyday activities. These students gain real-world experience in their specialties which can be invaluable in the competitive job markets. Students assist OTC professionals in projects including technology assessments, intellectual property protection, contract ne- gotiations, marketing, licensing, new venture creation and systems integration. About the Office of Technology Commercialization 2 34 5 6 7 8 9 0 - = q w e r 1
  • 24. Office of Technology Commmercialization Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey ASB III, 3 Rutgers Plaza New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901 Office: 732 932 0115 Fax: 732 932 0146 http://otc.rutgers.edu Report Credits: Editor: Lori Dars Contributing Writer: Michael D’Ecclessis (Ph.D. 2013) Photography (pages 2 and 22): Jennifer Miguel-Hellman (class of 2012) Design: Bruce Colthart Creative LLC