Power of Innovation: The Bayh-Dole Coalition’s Role in American Progress

Katharine Ku

Chief Licensing Advisor at Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati.

Previously, she was Executive Director of Stanford University’s Office of Technology Licensing (OTL) for 27 years, until 2018. Ku was President of the Association of University Technology Managers (AUTM) from 1988-90. She received the AUTM 2001 Bayh-Dole Award for her efforts in university technology transfer. In 1999, Stanford OTL received the LES Achievement Award.

One of her most notable achievements was licensing recombinant DNA technology, which led to the development of over 2,400 products, including life-saving innovations like synthetic insulin and HIV detection tools.

Under Ku’s leadership, OTL facilitated the commercialization of many transformative technologies, including Google’s search algorithm, which came from Stanford’s labs. Her work exemplified how university-held patents could be licensed to drive industry innovation, particularly in biotechnology and technology. Ku emphasized long-term societal benefits over short-term financial gain, fostering collaborations between universities and companies that benefited both the public and the economy.

Ku’s efforts also extended to shaping the broader philosophy of tech transfer, organizing the “Nine Points” platform adopted by over 120 universities to guide ethical licensing practices. Her work created a sustainable model that empowered academic institutions to protect and commercialize their intellectual property, spurring innovation while prioritizing public access. Through her advocacy and leadership, Ku helped universities transform cutting-edge research into real-world solutions, making a lasting impact on the fields of biotech, life sciences, and technology.