Biomedical Innovation Unit
The Biomedical Innovation Unit (BIU) at the University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus is dedicated to supporting and facilitating the commercialization of biomedical innovations. Our role is to help researchers transform groundbreaking biomedical discoveries into products and services that can improve public health and benefit the broader community.
About BIU
The BIU works in partnership with academic researchers, the Oficina de Propiedad Intelectual de Tranferenceia de Tecnologia (OPITT), and the Puerto Rico Science, Technology, and Research Trust to navigate the complexities of federal patenting and compliance, focusing on inventions resulting from federally funded research.
What We Do
We provide essential services to ensure that biomedical innovations are properly protected, reported, and commercialized. Our efforts include:
- Guidance on Patenting Compliance: We assist researchers with understanding and complying with federal patenting regulations, especially in relation to the Bayh-Dole Act and the iEdison system, ensuring that inventions resulting from federal funding are disclosed and protected.
- Commercialization Support: BIU supports researchers in bringing their inventions to market by helping identify potential commercialization opportunities, connecting with investors, and securing funding through programs like SBIR/STTR grants.
- Training & Education: We offer training on the processes of patenting, reporting inventions, and navigating federal compliance to ensure researchers are well-equipped to move their discoveries forward.
Our Role in Innovation
As a central hub for advancing biomedical research, the BIU supports the following key activities:
- Invention Reporting & Disclosure: The unit works closely with researchers to facilitate the timely disclosure of inventions to the TTO or Trust for further review and submission to iEdison.
- Protecting Intellectual Property: Through the iEdison system and other resources, we help ensure that inventions are properly patented and safeguarded under U.S. and international laws.
- Fostering Partnerships: BIU collaborates with private-sector partners, including technology companies, investors, and entrepreneurs, to accelerate the development of market-ready innovations that can directly benefit public health.
Our Impact
Successful SBIR/STTR Grants: Over 24 grants awarded in Puerto Rico between 2000 and 2016, enabling small businesses to commercialize biomedical innovations.
Active Patent Portfolio: The BIU currently manages an active portfolio of 29 patents, which include both U.S. and international patents, covering various areas of biomedical research.
Public Health Advancements: Through our work in patenting and commercialization, the BIU contributes to improving public health, supporting the translation of research into tangible products that benefit society.
Here’s a snapshot of the progress in biomedical commercialization at UPR and in Puerto Rico:
24
SBIR/STTR grants awarded in Puerto Rico during 2000-2016
29
Active Us and International Patents
Source: SBIR STTR America's Seed Fund