A Social Responsibility View of the "Patent-Centric Linear Model" of University Technology Transfer

Authors

Christopher S. Hayter

Abstract

Research universities are increasingly recognized for their role in regional and national economic prosperity. The contributions of research universities are primarily related to their role in the production and dissemination of new knowledge into society, including through the education of students.

New knowledge is the seed corn of innovation, and thus drives social and economic development. Given that research universities are sanctioned by society as non-profit, publicly-chartered organizations devoted to the public good, this article posits that their primary responsibility related to the production of new knowledge-especially new knowledge flowing from federally-funded research-is its rapid dissemination. While there are many mechanisms through which knowledge is disseminated, this article focuses on the efficacy of "formal" technology transfer, one particular interpretation of the Bayh- Dole Act of 1980.

To this end, I construct a unique analytical framework based on the voluminous corporate social responsibility ("CSR") literature to examine specific technology transfer management practices and most importantly-their impact on society. Despite the recent development of licensing practices related to global health and other areas, Nonetheless find that the "Patent-Centric Linear Model" of university technology transfer is far from socially optimal, often favoring opportunities for revenue generation at the expense of knowledge dissemination; current interpretations of Bayh-Dole are socially irresponsible.

First Page

7

Recommended Citation

Christopher S. Hayter, A Social Responsibility View of the "Patent-Centric Linear Model" of University Technology Transfer, 54 Duq. L. Rev. 7 (2016).
Available at: https://dsc.duq.edu/dlr/vol54/iss1/3