South East Technological University (SETU) is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr James O’Sullivan as Head of Innovation & Commercialisation.
SETU is committed to ensuring that research, teaching, and learning is informed by societal challenges, is aligned to meet the employment and skills needs of our region, and that SETU’s research is sourced through well-established and embedded links to employers and local communities.
In this new role as Head of Innovation and Commercialisation, James will develop, promote, and deliver a range of research, innovation, and commercialisation services, to regional enterprise, civic and social partners.
He will be responsible for the development of integrated innovation, incubation supports and funded R & D partnerships with enterprises, promoting knowledge transfer, research impact and the commercialisation of research outputs across SETU, enhancing the reputation of the university.
Speaking of his appointment James said, “Delivering a world class Technological University requires excellence across teaching, research, and innovation and commercialisation activities. This strategic appointment will allow SETU to consolidate our innovation and commercialisation activities under one umbrella and deliver for our region.”
James brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the position. He is a recognised expert in the field of intellectual property management within research performing organisations, and has managed Ireland’s most successful Knowledge Transfer office at SETU in Waterford for over a decade providing advice, support and training in matters related to the commercialisation of intellectual property.
He is currently the Vice President of the Irish Knowledge Transfer Association. He has contributed to the creation of research focused training programmes for Epigeum and the European Patent office, and he is currently providing input into the EU’s Intellectual Property Code of Practice Team aimed at ‘upgrading EU guidance for better knowledge valorisation’ under the Directorate-General for Research and Innovation of the European Commission. During his career James has also worked as a managing consultant in the strategy and science centres of two blue chip organisations.
Research activity is one of the defining features of SETU, with the university recognised as one of the leading research performers in the sector. This new position will help maximize SETU’s research outputs, driving enterprise activity, investment, and employment in the south east.
Commenting on the significance of this role, Dr Mark White, Vice President for Research, Innovation and Graduate Studies said, “Having a dedicated senior manager with a focus on innovation, commercialisation and external research and development is so important for SETU as it grows towards its strategic ambition. Dr James O’Sullivan is very welcome as the Head of Innovation & Commercialisation and we look forward to working with James as we expand our innovation and enterprise engagements.”
