UQ Research Commercialisation Workshop 2027

Why this workshop is essential

This free, two-day event serves as a comprehensive guide for researchers eager to turn their discoveries into impactful real-world solutions. Designed specifically for The University of Queensland research community, this program aims to both inform and inspire.

Through interactive sessions, expert-led presentations and practical exercises, you’ll learn how to protect your ideas, identify the right pathway to market, and engage effectively with industry partners and investors.

Tailored pathways for every researcher

This workshop is designed to support the full breadth of UQ research, with breakout sessions tailored for those working in the life sciences and physical sciences. Researchers in the social sciences, humanities, and the arts (SHAPE) can opt into a tailored stream that runs alongside the core program. You’ll join the full cohort at key points while exploring approaches to impact that reflect SHAPE research, including social, cultural, policy and economic impact.

Key learning outcomes

The workshop is structured around the three most critical phases of the commercialisation process:

1. Protecting intellectual property

Focus: Intellectual Property (IP) protection

Outcome: Understand what constitutes IP, the legal means of protection (patents, copyrights, trademarks, etc.), and essential early research steps to avoid common pitfalls.

2. Mapping commercialisation pathways

Focus: Pathways to market

Outcome: Examine various routes to market, including forming start-ups, licensing, options, and assignments. Gain the insights needed to choose the most strategic and profitable path for your research.

3. Engaging with industry and investment

Focus: Industry and investor engagement

Outcome: Learn the fundamentals of business development and engagement, practice crafting persuasive pitches, and discover how UniQuest’s expert team partners with you to attract capital and talent.

What you will gain