University innovations vital---numerous benefits including national security

[John E., III, 2013 Volume 38, Journal Technology Transfer, “Redeploying Bayh-Dole: beyond Merely doing good to optimizing the potential in results of taxpayer-funded research”, Springer - DOI 10.1007/s10961-011-9231-x, accessed on 7-16-2024, GDI-ALG]

Many universities are centers of research excellence and innovative thinking. They enhance knowledge, understanding, and basic conceptions that can advance economic growth and human welfare. For instance, university innovations have been and can continue to lead to new products, services, approaches and experiences that can help stimulate economic growth and corresponding potential for jobs, taxes, wealth, and other community benefits (Litan and Cook-Deegan 2011; Tyler 2009; Schramm 2006; Tornatzky 2002; Good 2004; Thursby and Thursby 2004). The United States government clearly values that role. It annually directs tens of billions of dollars to such universities for their research efforts. These funds and the research that they support serve a ‘‘critical national need’’ that is ‘‘vital to the nation’s welfare and security’’ because of the potential contributions to our nation’s economic growth and well-being, which is increasingly being viewed as a composite of national security (Schacht 2010b; President’s Council of Advisors 2008; Crow 2008).

University innovations also can advance human welfare by alleviating hunger and other suffering, creating efficiency, enhancing communications, facilitating safety, and treating, curing, and/or preventing illness (Litan and Cook-Deegan 2011; Tyler 2009). These possibilities are too important to risk being ‘‘left unused and unapplied.’’