The Office of the Dean-Research and IPR Cell at SRM University-AP hosted a highly impactful 3-day Workshop on “Research Commercialisation.” The workshop was graced by industry expert Mr Rakesh Sharma, a leading figure in business restructuring and global marketing. Mr Sharma with his notable experience of 38 years at Philips, imparted valuable insights on innovation, venture development, and commercialisation.

The workshop was attended by faculty and research scholars, all keen on understanding the intricacies of research commercialisation. The inaugural ceremony of the workshop was highlighted by the felicitation of Mr Sharma by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Manoj K Arora, along with Prof. Ranjit Thapa, Dean—Research; Deans of the three schools; Prof. G S Vinodkumar, Coordinator—IPR Cell & Convenor of this workshop; and other senior faculty members.

In his address, Prof. Manoj K Arora underscored the critical role of research, he urged the attendees to “think differently and change your mindset to unlock the boundless potential of your research and innovation.” He engaged with faculty and research scholars, seeking their perspectives. Prof. Ranjith Thapa, the Dean of Research, presented an overview of the varsity’s research capabilities, spotlighting its achievements in Q1 publications and patents across different departments.

Day 1– The workshop kicked off with Mr Sharma encouraging participants to voice their queries and concerns about commercialisation. Key discussion points covered included linking university research with practical applications, the transformation of patents and research into industry-ready products, understanding market needs, fundraising for research projects, and leveraging humanities and liberal arts in patent implementation. Mr Sharma engaged with each of the queries and closely explained to the students with simple and easy-to-understand examples, thereby making the session worthwhile and interesting.

Day 2—Scholars had the opportunity to present their published and granted patents. They received constructive feedback from faculty and Mr Sharma and understood how these patents could be further developed for commercialisation, thereby leading to fruitful discussions on improving and materialising these ideas.

Day 3– A significant outcome of the workshop was the proposal to establish a new centre for research commercialisation designed to offer students an in-house pathway to commercialise their patents. This initiative received widespread acclaim from all participants and sparked engaging discussions about transforming research into viable business ventures, facilitated by the session by the Director of Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Mr Sidharth Shankar Tripathy.

The workshop offered a crucial platform for students, offering both inspiration and guidance in their pursuit of entrepreneurship. The event was specifically designed for all PhD Scholars who are currently working on their research papers and looking for ways to commercialise their innovative ideas, projects, or inventions.

Through a series of expert-led sessions, interactive discussions, and networking opportunities, students were encouraged to think critically about their project’s potential impact, market readiness, and the pathways to achieving sustainable business growth.