University IP: Actively Managing The Commercial Profit Pie

The bionic ear developed through the University of Melbourne has revolutionised the way the medical world approaches hearing. Implanted in more than 50,000 people in 120 countries, it is a true story of success, not only in terms of research but successful commercialisation and industry partnership.

The bionic ear would not have achieved the success it has without the industry partnership shared between the University of Melbourne, Australian firm Cochlear Limited and the Bionic Ear Institute. The partnership is just one example of how a modern university can manage its intellectual property (IP) and succeed commercially. With the implementation and active management of their IP policies, universities will continue to be cornerstones contributing to the greater public good through their research, innovation and