Royal Visit to Oxford University Innovation

3rd February 2012

His Royal Highness The Duke of York visited Oxford University Innovation in Oxford yesterday to learn more about Isis’ successful efforts to commercialise technology that originates from the University of Oxford and other clients.

The Duke of York with Managing Director, Tom Hockaday (left) and Chairman, Bernard Taylor

The Duke of York works with entrepreneurs and SMEs in the UK to ensure that they are supported in their business endeavours. His Royal Highness showed particular interest in the opportunities that exist for Isis to develop its business internationally.

Oxford University Innovation has, for over 20 years, been responsible for ensuring that the Intellectual Property generated within the University is made accessible for the benefit of society. Since 2000 Isis has been involved in forming 65 spin-out companies, more than 700 licence deals and more than 900 academic consultancy projects. This bedrock of experience is now being put to good use in the rapid growth of Isis’ international activities, offering support to other technology providers and seekers worldwide. Isis has assisted clients in more than 50 countries worldwide and has consultants on the ground in China, Spain and Japan, as well as the UK, and this expansion is planned to continue. Isis welcomed this opportunity to promote its opportunities for investment in the UK, as the company seeks investors and business partners in the Middle East, India, China and elsewhere in Asia.

The Duke of York was greeted by Isis Chairman, Bernard Taylor, and Managing Director, Tom Hockaday. Bernard Taylor said, “We are honoured to welcome His Royal Highness to Isis, and greatly encouraged by his understanding of the need to transfer technologies from the research base to business.”

Press release sign up