In an economy where information is becoming an increasingly fundamental commodity and the very basis of production is becoming more knowledge-intensive, the role of universities in retaining and transmitting technology and knowledge has become even more crucial. Academic research is becoming more open, networked and collaborative. The image of the lone academic scientist in a lab with the eureka moment is less and less accurate. University research and intellectual property (IP) such as patents on discoveries is an important source of long-term economic growth and technological innovation. University researchers are aiming to commercialise their discoveries and IP. Corporate businesses and private equity companies are increasing sponsorship and financial support for academic research through eg licensing or selling patents, and spin-out companies. ...