From Research to Impact: Raising Awareness on Intellectual Property Protection
On July 30, 2026, the Technology Transfer Unit (TTU) at the American University of Beirut's Office of Research, in collaboration with Lebanon Innovate & Berytech hosted a UrCOP knowledge-sharing session "From Research to Impact: Raising Awareness on Intellectual Property (IP) Protection."
The session brought together research administrators, grants officers, and research coordinators from across the University to strengthen awareness of intellectual property protection and its essential role in maximizing the societal and commercial impact of research. As key facilitators throughout the research lifecycle, these professionals play an important role in helping researchers recognize innovation opportunities, avoid premature public disclosure, and connect with the appropriate institutional support for protecting intellectual assets.
May Awar Ammar, Director of Sponsored Programs and Technology Transfer at the Office of Research, opened the session with a compelling call to action. Welcoming the UrCOP community, she highlighted their vital role as catalysts for innovation and guardians of intellectual property at AUB. She urged members to champion IP protection across the university, emphasizing that by spotting high-potential research early and connecting scholars with the right institutional support, they hold the power to translate academic discoveries into real-world impact. The event featured insightful presentations by Souheir Nadde, Intellectual Property Specialist, who discussed the importance of intellectual property in academic research and the practical steps researchers and administrators can take to safeguard innovations, and Nadine Slim, Program Manager at Lebanon Innovate, who highlighted the program's efforts to strengthen Lebanon's innovation ecosystem by empowering academic institutions to protect, manage, and commercialize intellectual property.
The session concluded with an engaging discussion and networking opportunity, providing participants with the chance to exchange experiences, ask questions, and explore ways to further strengthen innovation support across the University.
In line with the Office of Research's commitment to sustainability, the event was organized with environmentally responsible practices. Recycled materials were used, and the event eliminated single-use plastics including plastic water bottles in favor of more sustainable alternatives, demonstrating that impactful events can also be environmentally conscious.
By strengthening awareness of intellectual property protection, AUB continues to foster a culture where research discoveries are not only generated but also protected, translated, and positioned to create lasting societal impact.