Scientific literature cited in patents: A Technology Transfer indicator in Portuguese universities

TL;DR

This study analyzes how scientific research from Portuguese universities influences technology transfer by examining scientific literature cited in patents, revealing significant impact in specific scientific disciplines and research fronts.

Contribution

It introduces a methodology using patent literature analysis to measure science-to-technology transfer in Portuguese universities, highlighting key research areas and trends.

Findings

Academic research impacts Chemistry, Biology, Materials Sciences, and Medicine.

Main research fronts include cancer, nanoparticles, biomaterials, tissue engineering.

Produced relevant knowledge for patented inventions and science-technology flow.

Abstract

The study aims to identify the process of transfer from science to technology that occurs in the main Portuguese public universities. The methodology was based on the analysis of the scientific literature cited in patents. Data was obtained from the Lens patent database. 10,514 scientific articles cited in patents were retrieved. A descriptive analysis of the data was performed. Science maps were created to visualize the main research trends. The results showed a valuable impact of academic research in certain scientific disciplines, such as Chemistry, Biology, Materials Sciences and Medicine. The main research fronts were cancer, nanoparticles, biomaterials, tissue engineering or molecular biology. In conclusion, the research produced by Portuguese universities has generated relevant knowledge for patented inventions and the science-technology flow within specific areas.