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Abstract

Emerging research institutions have a problem with their lack of tech transfer, including start-up business formations. This study investigates that issue using social comparison theory as the framework for a novel experimental design. A group of 245 respondents, comprised of STEM faculty members and STEM administrators at emerging research institutions, completed a stated- choice survey based on the social comparison theory. The respondents were assessed on the level and extent that they compare their emerging research institution to well established research institutions with respect to research, technology commercialization, and academic entrepreneurship. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in America were used as a case study. The median survey response was that technology transfer and academic entrepreneurship was not a priority. Respondents also indicated the belief that their HBCUs are not measuring up to majority schools. Based on this comparison, social comparison theory indicates that the HBCUs may be motivated to improve. An amendment to the Bayh Dole Act is recommended, given that HBCUs are woefully behind majority schools in university technology transfer. Specifically, the 37 CFR 401.16 requirements for federal agency reporting should change to require that emerging research institutions report their licensing activities. Further, all national organizations that receive federal funding and report on university patent licensing revenues should be required to provide annual reports on emerging research institutions’ technology transfer and academic entrepreneurship activities. This will likely increase awareness and monitoring of this issue.

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