Thanks for reading the first edition of Park Points! This soon-to-be series will give you a quick recap of news, information and events relevant to the mission and vision of KU Innovation Park.
Bright idea: KU ranks for utility patents
The University of Kansas earned a new accolade recently, this time for some bright ideas. KU ranks 40th among U.S. public institutions granted utility patents in 2022, according to the National Academy of Inventors.
Why it matters: Utility patents are granted for new or improved products, processes, machines or compositions of matter. Basically, patents protect inventors and their intellectual property.
- Over the past three years, KU has filed 406 new patent applications, with 240 patents issued.
Read more from the KU Office of Research.
Accelerate your growth: Cohort applications now available
Encourage growth in your startup by applying for KU Innovation Park’s fall Accelerator cohort.
Why it matters: The Accelerator program is a kickstart for eligible companies, earning opportunities and access to the Park’s business resources. Those resources are structured to encourage the development and rapid growth of startups.
- Check out the requirements and benefits on our blog. Applications are due Friday, November 3.
Gone phishing: New cybersecurity degree offered
Don’t let your guard down. The KU School of Engineering is now offering a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Engineering. Other degree programs teach students how to implement protections, while Jayhawks will be creating the actual safeguards themselves.
Why it matters: Only 15% of organizations around the world say they have the ability to defend against the risks of a hybrid world. In June, Congressional leadership said the U.S. desperately needs cyber talent.
Dive deeper into this new degree.
Quick Links
- Research at KU Medical Center nearly doubled its federal research portfolio over the past six years. Its clinical trial revenues are up 45% since 2021.
- A new virtual institute at the KU School of Engineering, funded with a federal grant, will train the next generation to combat cyberattacks.
- KU Postdoctoral researcher Nakisha Mark and her colleagues are using corncobs as renewable chemical feedstocks, creating petroleum alternatives at the Center for Environmentally Beneficial Catalysis.
- Learn more about KU’s range of core labs at Coretoberfest on October 12 at Burge Union. RSVP here.
What We’re Reading:
- New York Times: A Silver Lining From the Pandemic: A Surge in Start-ups
- Lawrence Journal-World: New report shows low wages contributing to brain drain in Kansas, but the state is holding its own in one key area
- Association of University Research Parks: The History of Research Parks & Their Evolution into Innovation Districts
Have news and notes to share? Let Lindsey Slater, vice president of strategic communications, know by clicking here.