Auburn University has received a $6 million, four-year award from the U.S. National Science Foundation. The award will help faculty turn research discoveries into practical applications through startups, industry partnerships and technology licensing.
“Auburn researchers are making discoveries across a wide range of disciplines, and we want to ensure they feel supported as they take those discoveries to market and put them to work in ways that can make a difference in people’s lives,” said Steve Taylor, senior vice president for research and economic development.
Led by Auburn Assistant Vice President for Innovation and Partnerships Patrick Reed, the funding will establish a Launch Innovation Fund, which will offer up to $50,000 for proof-of-concept research and prototype development. A Faculty Venture Studio, led by LaKami Baker, a professor in the Raymond J. Harbert College of Business and certified I-Corps instructor, will provide customer discovery, mentoring and entrepreneurship training to researchers.
Auburn’s first funded project will advance a seed-treatment technology designed to protect crops from fungal disease. Mark Liles, associate dean for research in the College of Sciences and Mathematics, is leading the team working to develop the coating.
“Thanks to this award, we’re going to be able to put some things in the field that have a real-world benefit to U.S. farmers,” Liles said.
