Throughout his career in the technology transfer realm, Kevin Cullen has been driving transformation. From introducing the concept of Easy Access IP at the University of Glasgow and the University of New South Wales, to his current position as Vice President of Innovation and Economic Development at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), where he is helping Saudi Arabia reach its goal of enhancing global prosperity through focusing on research and innovation in the food, water, energy, and environmental sectors.Although technology transfer in Saudi Arabia is less developed than it is in the western world, this is not necessarily a disadvantage, and in today’s episode Kevin shares what he greatly admires about KAUST’s approach. He also explains what motivates him to do the work he does, the importance of having an open mind, why universities should focus less on IP licensing and more on professional development and consulting, and more! KAUST has made incredible progress in the 12 years since its founding, and Kevin has even bigger and bolder plans for its future! In This Episode:[00:51] Introducing Kevin Cullen, Vice President of Innovation and Economic Development at KAUST.[03:53] The philosophy that underpins the work that Kevin does in the technology transfer space. [04:14] Easy access IP; the role that Kevin played in making this idea more widely accepted. [06:08] How Kevin ended up at KAUST, and what he greatly admires about the university.[08:20] An overview of the short history of KAUST and its 4 founding research pillars.[09:59] Why Kevin thinks universities focus too much on IP (and the elements he thinks they should be prioritizing more). [12:09] Similarities and differences between the technology transfer sector in Saudi Arabia and in the west. [14:40] Vision 2030; the Crown Prince’s plan for Saudi Arabia, and how Kevin is helping turn this into a reality. [20:09] Examples of the diverse range of research coming out of KAUST.[20:45] The difference between industry-directed and industry-informed research.[21:37] Progress that KAUST has made with its Entrepreneurship Center and its Investment Fund. [24:28] The unprecedented attendance at the first MOOC to come out of KAUST.[29:41] Activities, outcomes, and impact; an explanation of these three measurements that Kevin uses to determine success. [34:00] The importance of keeping an open mind when working in the technology transfer space. [37:26] KAUST’s approach to supporting startups (coming from within and outside of the university), and why not everyone should aim to be an entrepreneur. [41:50] Aspirations that Kevin has for the future of technology transfer at KAUST.[43:37] KAUST’s main corporate partners and the value that Kevin sees in these partnerships. [46:55] Why a university’s reputation is its greatest asset. [47:38] Impactful startups that have come out of KAUST.[52:26] The biggest challenges that Kevin and his team are currently facing.[56:19] Programs that KAUST runs that are focused on enhancing gender diversity. [58:59] Kevin’s involvement in technology transfer organizations, and the value that they provide.[1:01:28] Wishes that Kevin has for his office. Find Kevin:Email

Ask this episode

“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

Transcript

Related