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Academia And Industry: Working Together For Biomedical Advances

The 4T MRI system at Wayne State University is the highest-field human MR scanner in Michigan. It distinguishes the School of Medicine as a premiere imaging site, providing the clearest pictures of the brain's structures, chemicals and functions. The 4T facilitates collaborative research and scientific advances across many biomedical specialties.

Traditionally, research universities have immersed themselves in the creation of knowledge, while corporations have been concerned solely with the creation of profit. Those missions were clear cut and rarely did they intersect—until now.

As institutions across the country try to capitalize on advancements in biomedical science, academia and industry are finding that they have much in common. Furthermore, they have much to gain by sharing resources and ideas.

Biomedical research has become big business. In fiscal year 2001, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) is expected to spend approximately $20 billion on research. For the past three years, the NIH has consistently received appropriation increases indicating strong public support for the future of medical research and advancement. At the same time, the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America reports that drug industry expenditures for research and development will reach nearly $26.4 billion. With this sort of investment in disease prevention and therapy, it is in WSU’s best interest to compete aggressively for available funds.

Although universities have always functioned as the creators of knowledge, academic researchers have not traditionally viewed their work as business ventures or potential sources of profit. As the Wayne State University School of Medicine competes for more public and private research funding, it is looking to industry to create resourceful collaborations.

As large companies concentrate on applied research, they often look to universities to complete basic research. In the past year, many faculty members at WSU have lent their expertise to research projects in early development stages. In the meantime, companies monitor that work, watching for a potential investment. Such investments in academic research have proven fruitful, resulting in new products that improve health, quality of life and the environment.

On the following pages are just a handful of examples pointing to Wayne State University’s active role in pursuing patents, licensing rights and technology transfers. These partnerships between academia and industry have the strength and potential to bring many new medical advances to the forefront with the WSU School of Medicine paving the way.

2000 Report to Investors:
Creating Personal Partnerships

Partnerships for Life

The Quest to Improve Women's Health

Gifts from Alumni

Gifts from Faculty, Staff, Friends and Corporations

2000/2001 Alumni Annual Telefund Volunteers

2000 New Endowed Funds at the School of Medicine

Alumni Contact Information

Bibliographies:
Anatomy and Cell Biology

Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Center for Healthcare Effectiveness Research