Door opener to new paths – transfer of knowledge between research, business and the public
In the Potsdam Science Park, the transfer of knowledge between research, companies and the public plays an important role. How do antibodies from research get into new drugs against cancer? To ensure that the transfer of scientific developments to the economy works and that new products and processes find their way into society, the site management at the Potsdam Science Park supports the exchange of scientists and companies.
“Our goal is to build a growing and excellently networked ecosystem for startups and spin-offs from the research institutes,” emphasizes Managing Director Agnes von Matuschka. There are also attractive career prospects for graduates of the University of Potsdam: “If some decide to stay in Golm, that’s a win.”
There are attractive prospects for graduates
“Matchmaking” does not work by itself, because research and business usually operate on different platforms. “We are building the appropriate bridges,” says Jana Dotzek, who is responsible for knowledge and technology transfer at the site management. A network of active people who promote the corporate culture and the expansion of so-called transfer structures serves this purpose. “In addition to the University of Potsdam and Potsdam Transfer, we have reliable partners in the Brandenburg Economic Development Corporation and the City of Potsdam in the areas of funding, start-ups and business development,” says Agnes von Matuschka.
Annual PSP Conference showcases innovations
To ensure that the location acts as an engine for the region, companies can find out about possible cooperations, new products and patents at the Science Park’s annual innovation conference. “We also offer workshops for those interested in founding a company for further training or advice from our partners,” says Jana Dotzek. For some, this opens the door – to found a startup themselves. In order to support the transfer of knowledge to the public, the site management offers open events. “In the Future2Go series, former scientists report on how they started their careers in ministries and companies or founded a company,” says Jana Dotzek.
Text: Isabel Fannrich
Published in: Special edition “Wissenschaft im Zentrum” by proWissen Potsdam e.V. in Potsdamer Neuste Nachrichten/Tagesspiegel from 09.05.2022 on the occasion of the Potsdam Day of Sciences 2022
Image note: Networking. Dr. Jana Dotzek, Ilka Mai, Robert Luft and Kathrin Giersch (from left) from Standortmanagement GmbH promote knowledge and technology transfer. The development is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund. © Standortmanagement Goln GmbH/Karen Esser