Collaboration between Technology Transfer Offices: interview with Valeria Mozzetti

Valeria Mozzetti is the Head of Technology Transfer at the University of Fribourg (TTO), with which USI recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), establishing a cooperation agreement between the two institutions. We discussed the Fribourg TTO in more detail with her, including its characteristics and benefits, as well as how it works.

Valeria Mozzetti, how is the Technology Transfer Office at the University of Fribourg organised?

"Our Technology Transfer Office is a streamlined yet strategically integrated part of the University. It reports directly to the Rector's Office and is led by Prof. Katharina Fromm, the Rector. The team is multidisciplinary and collaborates closely with researchers, internal university services (including legal services, research support, and the International Relations Service), as well as key external partners such as FriUp (the cantonal business creation service), the cantonal economic promotion agency, BioAlps, alumni, and various associations and networks within the innovation ecosystem. Currently, the team consists of five members: myself, Dr Barbara Drasler, responsible for education and communication; Dr Sebastian Dobarco and Dr Maarit Rein, Technology Transfer Managers, each of us with a specific thematic focus. Our approach is long-term: each manager specialises in the research groups they work with, building strong relationships and ensuring targeted and timely support. Céline Schelker is also part of the team, providing specialised legal support. Dedicated administrative support will also be added shortly. This structure enables us to closely align with the needs of researchers, intervene proactively, and serve as a bridge between the university and the local area at all levels: regional, national, and international."

What services do you offer to members of your academic community?

"We provide comprehensive support for all aspects of research valorisation. This includes protecting intellectual property, validating research results, creating spin-offs, and negotiating agreements with external partners. Additionally, we focus on strategic approaches for knowledge and technology transfer, actively participating in national and international networks in this field. We also assist in preparing competitive funding projects, such as those with Innosuisse, and offer internal proof-of-concept and start-up funding. Our goal is to facilitate the transition from the laboratory to society."

What does your Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with USI include?

The Memorandum of Understanding we have signed with USI reflects our mutual goal to enhance cooperation between our Technology Transfer Offices by leveraging the strengths of both institutions. Despite having different organisational structures, we operate in similar environments: small to medium-sized universities with a strong international focus and an increasing commitment to knowledge and technology transfer. The MOU facilitates the regular exchange of best practices, ideas, and operational tools, allows for discussions on specific cases, and opens up opportunities to jointly develop guidelines or initiatives that support academic entrepreneurship and the commercialisation of research outcomes.

In your opinion, what are the benefits of collaboration between universities in the context of transfer?

"For small to medium-sized universities like ours, collaboration between universities is essential. It allows us to pool our expertise and tackle complex challenges more effectively. It also promotes mutual learning and helps to build a more cohesive and competitive innovation ecosystem at the national level."