What is research translation?

At Carolina, an abundance of discovery science and creative endeavors have exciting potential for application. Research translation advances the development of promising early-stage, problem-driven research concepts through assessment of their translational value to the creation of products and services that benefit society. It bridges the gap between research and the marketplace, making innovations more attractive to potential partners and maximizing value for the research teams, the University, and society.

However, further development of these technologies is often necessary to realize their impact. At Carolina, developmental resources are provided by, depending on stage, by organizations like the Office for the Vice Chancellor for Research (OVCR), Innovate Carolina, the Office of Technology Commercialization, and the OVCR’S Institute for Convergent Science, a hub for innovation.

Supporting research translation

One of the challenges that researchers sometimes face is understanding which mechanism might best support their efforts. Our office helps researchers identify and connect with suitable funding and support, moving research discoveries toward eventual products.

• Resources
• Therapeutics Examples

OVCR Resources

The Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research (OVCR) provides funding initiatives and award programs that accelerate the work of Carolina researchers to develop solutions to scientific challenges that benefit North Carolina and beyond. The office provides guidance and support to help faculty investigators pursue commercialization-focused goals. OVCR resources include technical development expertise and know-how, funding, specialized technologies, and potential partnerships with other faculty experts and external entities.

UNC-Chapel Hill’s Commercial Impact*

* Lifetime totals