7 pieces of advice – how to benefit from your research

What should you be considering so that what you’re researching into will one day become an innovation that benefits society?
We have asked some of our experienced business advisors – and some researchers who have succeeded!

1. Ask yourself at an early stage whether this could become an innovation.
A lot of very exciting research is being done. Ask yourself at an early stage whether your research could be used in society. Could it lead to an innovation?
Stefan Roos, innovator, Ilya Pharma

2. Bring in additional competence
As a researcher you will usually be focusing on your research. Gain the support of someone who knows more about what is important in terms of taking research out into society, e.g. contractual issues.
Odd Höglund, researcher SLU

3. The right agreement creates peace of mind
Speaking of agreements ... Be careful about agreements and who is entitled to what – address this at an early stage of a project. Sorting it out later can be really hard.
Mats Wiktorsson, Senior Innovation and Business Advisor, SLU Holding

4. Think about practical applications
It’s good to have a dialogue with practitioners/the industry right from the start. This is a dimension that can be very stimulating for a researcher – in addition to purely scientific publications.
Göran Nordlander, innovator, Conniflex

5. Don’t be afraid to think and talk about money
Money is the driving force in our current social model, and it gives you the chance to do so much more. If you succeed in creating a business that gives you a surplus, you will be free to continue your research, support other research or develop your business – the choice will be yours.
Nicholas Jakobsson, Senior Innovation and Business Advisor, SLU Holding

6. Learning how to run a business takes time
Seek the help of others with capital, expertise, business-development skills and contacts at an early stage. Running a business is a long learning curve.
Stefan Roos, innovator, Ilya Pharma

7. Contact SLU Holding
A common question I’m asked is: "When should I come to you?" The answer is: “Recently!” It’s better to come to us too soon than too late. We’ll give you guidance so you don’t end up making mistakes that will make it legally impossible for you to later patent or proceed with your research results.
Henrik Landgren, Senior Innovation and Business Advisor, SLU Holding