Lab-to-market guide for commercialisation of nanomaterials: A South African university perspective

Abstract

This Perspective presents a unique guide for South African university researchers on how to successfully commercialise their research, especially nanomaterials. The commercialisation of nanomaterials has been a challenge for many researchers in South Africa because of a lack of information that can serve as a guide. The guide presented here is applicable across many disciplines of science, engineering, and technology, where nanomaterials are a subject of research and innovation. The full guide is included as supplementary material for reference.

Nanoscience teaching and research program in South Africa

“…Discussions with students indicate that many are interested in becoming entrepreneurs but most have not considered the possible applications of their research towards this goal. Thus, the advisory board has decided that the course should strengthen the entrepreneurial content of the course (Dikweni, Makgabutane and Mhlanga, 2023) and also consider exposing students to industry during their studies. A "Pitch" competition, wherein students propose potential business ideas using their research, was held in 2023.…”