Galway-based Vetex and NUI Galway have been shortlisted in the Commercialisation Impact Award category of Knowledge Transfer Ireland’s (KTI) 2021 Impact Awards.
The annual awards recognise achievements in knowledge transfer and the commercialisation of publicly funded research nationwide.
The awards pay tribute to the work of those within Ireland’s Technology Transfer Offices (TTOs) around the country who provide a vital link between industry and academic research.
KTI will announce the winners on 26 November at a virtual ceremony from Croke Park.
The Commercialisation Impact Award category recognises successful outcomes from licensing rights to technology or intellectual property or through the creation of a spinout company.
Spun out from NUI Galway in 2015 to develop technology to addresses the needs identified in the management of venous clots, Vetex was acquired by Surmodics in a deal worth almost €40m this year.
The company reached a major milestone in December 2020, gaining FDA regulatory approval for its clot removal product ‘ReVene’.
Alison Campbell, Knowledge Transfer Ireland Director, said that it is hugely encouraging to see the breadth of activity on show for this year’s Impact Awards.
“The enduring commitment we see from industry to work with Irish researchers sends a positive message about the engagement model we have here in Ireland and the impact from spinout companies emerging from the system is really impressive.
“That is testament to the strength of the Irish knowledge transfer offices and the unique system of supports that we have in the country.
“I’ve been particularly pleased to see equity, diversity and inclusion reflected in so many of the submissions this year and I’m optimistic that this trend will continue.
“I wish all our shortlisted entries the best of luck and look forward to unveiling the winners in November.”
