Topic Hub: AUTM
Part of the Global Perspectives on Knowledge Exchange webinar series, delivered in partnership with Knowledge Exchange UK and AUTM, this session explored the role of technology transfer in delivering value from publicly funded research and how that impact can be understood, measured and communicated.
Government research funding represents a substantial investment by taxpayers. The session considered the return on that investment, from new businesses and job creation to national security and improvements in quality of life through innovation.
Leaders from across the world discussed different approaches to measuring the impact of research funding and its contribution to the next generation of innovations.
Watch the recording to explore global perspectives on demonstrating the value of publicly funded research.
Speakers
- Erwin Gianchandani – Assistant Director for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships, National Science Foundation (NSF)
- Simon Hepworth – Director of Knowledge Exchange, Research England
- Varinka Farren – Executive Director, Andes Pacific Technology Access
- Steve Susalka – CEO, AUTM (Moderator)
Please find below the recording:
As part of the Global Perspectives on Knowledge Exchange webinar series, delivered in partnership with Knowledge Exchange UK and AUTM, this session explored the growing importance of university research investment in addressing global challenges and accelerating innovation.
The discussion examined how, beyond financial returns, university research investment presents a unique opportunity for investors seeking to create positive global impact. Speakers explored the motivations behind different funding sources, the role of mission-driven capital, and the long-term influence of investment on innovation ecosystems.
Featuring insights from Michelle Durborow (The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research), Tony Hickson (Cancer Research UK and Cancer Research Horizons), Debra Hall (NZ Growth Capital Partners), and Orakanoke Phanraksa (NSTDA), the session highlighted how collaborations between academia and private capital help accelerate the journey from lab to market. The discussion was moderated by Stuart Wilkinson, CEO of Knowledge Exchange UK.
Please find below the recording:
A Global Celebration of a Growing Profession:
Throughout the AUTM 2026 Annual Meeting in Seattle, I found myself searching for a single word that could capture the experience. It wasn’t until the final day that it finally crystallised celebration.
AUTM 2026 felt like a genuine celebration of the technology transfer and knowledge exchange profession. Colleagues had travelled from across the United States and around the world to come together, share practice, and reflect on the evolving role of our profession in supporting innovation and impact. That sense of collective pride was amplified by the timing and location of the conference. Seattle was hosting a Super Bowl victory parade for the Seattle Seahawks, with almost a million people lining the streets, creating an extraordinary atmosphere that spilt well beyond the conference centre.
AI Takes Centre Stage in 2026:
As it’s 2026, artificial intelligence featured prominently across the programme. From questions around whether AI can be patented to practical demonstrations of how AI tools are already being deployed within technology transfer offices, the conversation felt both urgent and grounded. What was most striking was not simply the presence of AI as a topic, but the way discussions consistently returned to people: how teams are supported, how capability is developed, and how new tools are integrated responsibly into existing professional practice.
Connecting the UK Delegation:
One of the highlights of my time in Seattle was hosting the UK delegation lunch. Bringing together colleagues who had travelled from the UK to engage with the US knowledge exchange community was a real privilege, and it was particularly encouraging to see the strength and diversity of experience represented around the tables.
Shared Questions Across Borders:
After several days at the AUTM Annual Meeting, I was left with a great deal to reflect on. While individual sessions were thought-provoking, the real value came from the consistency of themes that emerged across informal conversations with colleagues. Regardless of geography or system, many of us are wrestling with the same fundamental questions. How do we support those working in knowledge exchange roles? How do we recognise and develop professional capability in a meaningful way? And how do we ensure that impact remains central to what we do? For me, one of the most striking differences between AUTM and the KEUK conference is scale and spectacle. AUTM’s size brings with it a visible sense of pride in the profession and a confidence in celebrating its contribution. Experiencing that has prompted some useful reflections for KEUK, particularly around how we celebrate our incredible volunteer community, showcase new initiatives, and welcome first-time attendees in ways that help them feel part of the community from the outset.
A Celebration to Build On:
AUTM 2026 was, in every sense, a celebration: of people, of practice, and of a profession that continues to evolve and adapt. I return from Seattle with plenty to reflect on and a great deal to take forward as we continue to support and develop the knowledge exchange community in the UK and beyond.
