Innovation Insider: An interview with Mark Richardson, Chief Executive Officer at National Biofilms Innovation Centre

Innovation Insider

FacebookGoogleLinkedInTwitter

01 July, 2020   Innovation Insider

In line with our mission to track down Innoget users in the world's most amazing organizations to discover their thoughts on open innovation and technology transfer, where they see is headed, and learn more about how is the innovation culture within their organization, this month we interviewed Mr Mark Richardson, Chief Executive Officer of the National Biofilms Innovation Centre to know more about the future of technology transfer and key elements for a successful implementation of an open innovation strategy.

The National Biofilms Innovation Centre, in short NBIC, was founded in 2017 and its mission is to harness the UK's academic and industrial strength in Biofilms. NBIC is a partnership of 52 UK Research Institutions and over 150 companies, and delivers Research, Innovation (including funding calls with already over 50 funded projects) and Training of future research leaders, all in support of the organization's mission.

Mark, can you briefly describe your role within the National Biofilms Innoavtion Centre and how do you define technology transfer?

My role in the NBIC is to lead the delivery of the goals we have agreed with our Funders in UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). We have an operational team who support our academic co directors in -the delivery of world class science by our fully funded PDRAs -facilitating the translation and adoption of knowledge, science, and technology from our partner institutions into industry and stakeholders -helping to train the next generation of research leaders and industry technologists.


Mark Richardson, Chief Executive Officer at National Biofilms Innovation Centre / Innoget, NBIC

Where do you see technology headed and how do you think Universities can prepare for where it is going?

Technology transfer relies on effective and sustained matching of unmet need and solution, it is vital the university sector listens very hard to the problems and needs of those aiming to translate science for human benefit and delivering economic potential. To do this they must work with industry partners to find a common language, effective collaboration tools, and high levels of trust.

Based on your expertise, what are the key elements to implement a successful technology transfer strategy?

In my opinion some key elements are the following:

• Very clear definition of the benefits any piece of technology has in relation to unmet needs
• Absolute clarity on IPR and its ownership
• A flexibility and adaptability of approach to building a successful partnership
• A belief in team working

What is the open innovation culture like in your organization?

NBIC sits in an Open Innovation ecosystem like the oil in the cogs of a machine and we act to facilitate, catalyse and smooth the ability for academics and industry to create successful equitable partnerships.

Can you share anything about how Innoget helps technology transfer activities?

Innoget will allow our partners to effectively meet and connect. The solution meets the need.

Other Innovation Insider

Interview with Fabio Campanile, Global Head of Science & Technology at Givaudan

  • 07 July, 2023

We recently interviewed FabioCmpanile, acting as the Global Head of Science & Technology at Givaudan. Fabio collaborates for shared success, leveraging capabilities and knowledge in flavor and taste science.    How do you ensure that sustainable practices are integrated into the development of new food technologies? Our innovation program aims towards building technologies and new products for our customer...

Read more about this

Interview with Hadar Sutovsky - VP of External Innovation of ICL Group & GM of ICL Planet

  • 06 July, 2023

At Innoget we recently interviewed Hadar Sutovsky, an agro-food industry expert with a wealth of experience in FoodTech, Sustainable AgTech, and IMPACT technology. With a scientific background and a track record in global business development, Hadar's expertise in innovation and investments has made her a key player in the field. Stay tuned to learn more about her remarkable insights regarding Open Innovation and the agro-food industry. &n...

Read more about this

Interview with Tony Moses, Director, Production Innovation at CRB

  • 06 July, 2023

At Innoget, we recently interviewed Tony Moses, CRB's Fellow of Product Innovation, leverages 15+ years of experience to drive innovation and assist clients in navigating technical challenges. He supports clients in meeting consumer demands for sustainability, transparency, and value.    How do you ensure that sustainable practices are integrated into the development of new food technologies? CRB helps clients integ...

Read more about this


Find More Innovation Insider