Oklahoma State University Sets $2 Million Royalty Record

Royalties for technology developed at Oklahoma State University have topped $2 million for the first time. The royalties were generated last year for the use of university-developed technologies licensed to start-up or existing companies.

Topping the list is a probiotic administered to the nation's dairy and feedlot cattle. The bacteria developed at OSU is used to help maintain the proper balance of microflora in the animals' gastrointestinal tracts. The bacteria also help the cattle convert food to energy.

• A collective group of wheat varieties developed by OSU's Wheat Improvement Team and licensed to Oklahoma Genetics Inc. These wheat varieties have unique characteristics that make them adaptable to Oklahoma conditions, including traits necessary for high yields, superior quality, disease and insect tolerance, excellent milling and baking characteristics and excellent grazing potential. These varieties cover at least 47 percent of the state of Oklahoma.
• A method for measuring radiation exposure used in 25 percent of the world's radiation badges. The badges are used to detect radiation in hospitals, medical and dental offices, universities, national laboratories and other industries where radiation poses a potential threat to employees. The technology is licensed to Landauer, the global leader in radiation science and services.

"You need more than just an innovative technology to make for commercial success," said Steven Price, OSU's associate vice president for technology development. "That's why at OSU we have programs like TBDP and Cowboy Technologies, to help maximize our technologies to their full potential. We believe it's the modern interpretation of our land-grant mission."

Royalties from licensed technologies are re-invested back into university research programs.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.