Innovation boom: University of Arizona leaps to 31st in world for patents
The University of Arizona jumped to No. 31 on the 2024 National Academy of Inventors list for utility patents, reflecting its thriving innovation ecosystem.
In a remarkable demonstration of its growing innovative prowess, the University of Arizona has surged 20 positions to secure the 31st spot globally for utility patents granted in 2024. With 96 U.S. patents issued last year—a 57% increase from 2023—the institution is making significant strides in transforming academic research into real-world solutions.
Record-breaking patent achievements
Tech Launch Arizona, the university’s commercialization division, played a pivotal role in this achievement under the leadership of Associate Vice President Doug Hockstad. “This dramatic improvement in our global patent ranking is a welcome recognition of the innovative spirit of University of Arizona inventors,” Hockstad said, emphasizing the dedication required to navigate the complex patenting process.
Notable innovations from 2024
Among the groundbreaking inventions patented in 2024 are:
- An automotive radar utilizing a 3D printed Luneburg lens, developed by Professor Hao Xin’s team and licensed to Lunewave
- A falloposcope for detecting ovarian cancer, created by Professor Jennifer Barton and her team at the BIO5 Institute
- A revolutionary heart tissue repair patch containing embedded muscle cells, invented by Dr. Steven Goldman and Jordan Lancaster and now licensed to Avery Therapeutics
Impact on global innovation
Tomás Díaz de la Rubia, Senior Vice President for Research and Innovation, highlighted the significance of this achievement: “Patents are more than milestones–they are catalysts that move ideas from the lab into the world, fueling economic growth, strengthening industries and improving lives.”
The university’s advancement is particularly noteworthy within the context of the National Academy of Inventors’ rankings, where listed institutions collectively hold over 9,600 patents. NAI member institutions, representing 58% of the list, account for more than 5,600 of these patents.
Paul R. Sanberg, president of the National Academy of Inventors, emphasized the importance of patent rankings, stating, “The Top 100 Worldwide list showcases the vital role U.S. patents play in moving technologies from bench to marketplace at academic institutions around the globe.”
This article may have been created with the assistance of AI.
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