Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/83317
Connecting INVENTORS I magination breeds the technology of tomorrow and the National Academy of Inventors (NAI) is determined to encourage and recognize inventors at universities and nonprofit research institutions. Founded in 2010 at the University of South Florida (USF), the NAI doubled the number of participating member institutions from 19 to 38 in 2012 and continues to grow, boasting 1,500 individual inventor members. In 2011, USF received 86 patents and was named in the top 300 organizations worldwide to receive patents from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The organization has grown quickly, adding notable institutions such as Boston University, Georgetown University, the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute and China Medical University in Taiwan. Adding to NAI's prominence in innovation is the peer-reviewed academic journal, Technology & Innovation – Proceedings of the National Academy of Inventors. The journal hosts editorial board members from Johns Hopkins University, Lockheed Martin and Auburn University. Interest throughout the nation stems from the NAI's charge to honor academic invention, recognize and encourage inventors, enhance the visibility of academic technology and innovation, encourage the disclosure of intellectual property, educate and mentor innovative students, and translate the inventions of its members to benefit society. It also works closely with the USPTO. The culmination of the NAI's support of innovation throughout the year is showcased during its annual conference, which in 2012 brought together more than 140 representatives from 31 universities and research institutions. Sponsored by the Florida High Tech Corridor Council, the first conference featured keynote speaker, David Kappos, Founder and president of the National Academy of Inventors, DR. PAUL SANBERG, speaks with an attendee at the inaugural conference, which drew 140 representatives from 31 universities and research institutions. from Around the World Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Dr. Thomas J. Fogarty, famed heart surgeon, entrepreneur and pioneer inventor of the cardiac balloon catheter, was presented with a significant professional distinction as the NAI's first Fellow. "Election as an NAI Fellow will serve as a significant distinction accorded to academic inventors," said Dr. Paul R. Sanberg, president of NAI. "NAI Fellows are intended to be at the level of members of Royal Societies, National Academies and recipients of other esteemed prestigious honors, such as the Nobel Prize, the National Medal of Technology and Innovation, or the National Inventors Hall of Fame." There is no doubt the NAI will be a force to assist USF and other institutions gain further acknowledgement in innovative thinking and applied research. For more information on the NAI and membership opportunities, visit www.academyofinventors.org. florida.HIGH.TECH 2012 05 NEW