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Research and Innovation

Use of Generative AI to enhance knowledge transfer

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Integrating Generative AI (GenAI) and Large Language Models (LLMs) into a university's Technology Transfer Office (TTO) can significantly enhance the management and commercialisation of intellectual property (IP). At Trinity College Dublin, we have considerable experience of engineering AI "Prompts" to support and streamline day to day tasks.

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Description

Applications of GenAI and LLMs in a TTO: 

  1. Automated Disclosure Creation:
    Functionality: We use LLMs to analyse research outputs to generate comprehensive invention disclosures, ensuring all critical aspects are documented.
    Benefits: Accelerates the disclosure process, reduces administrative workload, and ensures consistency in documentation.
  2. Prior Art Search and Patentability Analysis:
    Functionality: We use GenAI tools to conduct extensive prior art searches, evaluating existing patents and publications to assess the novelty of an invention.
    Benefits: Provides rapid insights into patentability, aiding in informed decision-making regarding IP protection strategies.
  3. Portfolio Management and Optimisation:
    Functionality: AI-driven platforms categorise and assess our IP portfolio, identifying high-value assets and potential gaps.
    Benefits: Enables strategic portfolio management, aligning IP assets with the university's commercialisation goals.
  4. Market Analysis and Commercialisation Opportunities: 
    Functionality: On a daily basis we use commercially available LLMs, analyse market trends and identify potential industry partners or licensees for university technologies.
    Benefits: Facilitates targeted outreach and partnership development, enhancing the commercialization potential of university innovations.
  5. Contract Drafting and Negotiation Support:
    Functionality: GenAI assist in drafting licensing agreements and other contracts, ensuring they are comprehensive and compliant with legal standards.
    Benefits: Streamlines the legal aspects of technology transfer, reducing the time and resources required for contract negotiations. 

We use a wide range of available models and are also building our own LLM.

Achievements & learning 

Best Practices for Implementing GenAI and LLMs in a TTO: 

  • Data Security and Confidentiality: Ensure that AI tools comply with data protection regulations to safeguard sensitive research information.
  • Integration with Existing Systems: Select AI solutions that can seamlessly integrate with the university's current IP management infrastructure.
  • Training and Adoption: Provide comprehensive training for TTO staff to effectively utilize AI tools, fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability.
  • Continuous Evaluation: Regularly assess the performance of AI tools to ensure they meet the evolving needs of the TTO and adjust strategies accordingly. 

By embracing GenAI and LLMs, university TTOs can enhance their efficiency, improve the quality of IP management, and increase the success rate of technology commercialisation efforts.

Valorisation channel

Intellectual Property ManagementIntermediaries / support & networking structures

Target groups

Academia / researchIndustry / SMEsPrivate Investors

Scope

Practices by stakeholders

Theme

Horizontal

Tools

Digital platform/tool

Country

Ireland