For Inventors

ZI facilitates the translation of cutting edge MUSC discoveries into products and services. Whether this is a technology license, research collaboration, new startup venture or any other commercialization activity, the Zucker Institute is here to help.

For Inventors

Our Opportunities

Discover various Inventor Toolkit to fuel your invention from concept to reality.

Success Stories

“Working with the Zucker Institute was an outstanding experience as they attentively prioritized our work, provided invaluable suggestions, guided us seamlessly through the commercialization process, and inspired us to think outside the box. Our team consists mostly of mental health professionals and researchers with little to no expertise in business or the commercialization process. The Zucker Institute worked closely with us to clarify and guide us through those processes while allowing us to maintain an eye toward our primary focus to improve the behavioral health of as many patients and families as possible.

“Partnering with the Zucker Institute was a transformative experience. Their team brought clarity and structure to a complex process that was outside our expertise. They not only supported us in translating our clinical work into a viable product but also helped us stay true to our mission of improving mental health outcomes. Their dedication and guidance were instrumental in moving our project forward.

“The Zucker Institute proved to be an invaluable ally in our development journey. Their ability to bridge the gap between healthcare innovation and commercialization was exactly what our team needed. With their support, we were able to refine our vision, navigate critical decisions, and stay grounded in our goal to make a positive difference in behavioral health. Their insight, patience, and expertise were deeply appreciated.

Our Process

The Zucker Institute for Innovation Commercialization (ZI) independently evaluates and manages the intellectual assets owned and generated by MUSC. We’re dedicated to transforming these assets into products and services that meet critical medical needs globally. ZI works closely with the Office of Innovation, forging paths to commercialize innovations from the Medical University of South Carolina. Our mission is to bring groundbreaking medical advancements from concept to community.

ideate

Start by sparking creativity within the campus community to generate innovative ideas.

Evaluate

Rigorously assess the scientific, clinical, commercial, and regulatory potential of these ideas.

PROTECT

Secure the intellectual property of promising concepts to safeguard their future.

DEVELOP

Move ideas forward by collaboratively transforming them into practical solutions.

Commercialize

Launch these innovations into the market to create real-world impact.

Innovation Support and Resources

ZI supports your invention through our extensive resources and capabilities.

In-house Prototyping Lab

ZI operates a specialized lab focused on the development of prototypes and devices. Equipped with two large format Stratasys PolyJet printers, we can produce prints in multi-durometer and multicolor plastics. For intricate, smaller-scale models, we employ a high-resolution SLA printer. The lab is conveniently located in CSB which allows us to work closely with our inventors and gives us the ability to gather real-time feedback on working prototypes so that we can quickly improve the designs.

Software and Firmware Development

We have established connections with several Charleston-based companies that provide software and firmware development services for our MUSC inventors. These companies bring specialized skills in app development, virtual reality, AI training and integration, circuit board design, and website development. We connect MUSC inventors with these local companies to help enable software innovation.

Get Involved

Mentoring is more than just sharing knowledge—it’s about building relationships, inspiring growth, and fostering innovation. By becoming a mentor, you have the opportunity to guide emerging talent, share your expertise, and make a lasting impact on someone’s career.

EXPERT GUIDANCE

Meet with our in-house engineers to refine, evaluate, or simply brainstorm your ideas.

UNLOCK POTENTIAL

A great idea can redefine not just a project, but a person’s financial future.

NO IDEA TOO RAW

Meet with our in-house engineers to refine, evaluate, or simply brainstorm your ideas.

UNLOCK POTENTIAL

A great idea can redefine not just a project, but a person’s financial future.

Office hours

Welcoming clinicians and neurosurgeons who are looking to bridge the gap between ideas and innovation

When

Wednesdays, 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm EST
Thursday, 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm EST

Where

CSB 301 Conference Room

For Inventors FAQs

We understand that you may have questions about our resources and support for researchers. Below, we’ve compiled some frequently asked questions to provide you with the insights you need to get started working with the Zucker Institute. Whether you’re curious about our services, the invention process, or intellectual property, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Explore the FAQs below to learn more:

What if I conceived my invention on my own time?

MUSC’s IP policy applies to inventions within your field of expertise, regardless of when they were created. Compliance with this policy is required for all employees and students.

What happens after I submit my invention?

You will receive an acknowledgment email with a case number. The Zucker Institute will evaluate the patent and commercial potential of your invention and may contact you for more details. Expect an update within a few weeks.

Why is a detailed invention description important?

Detailed descriptions enable the Zucker Institute to thoroughly assess the patentability and licensing potential of your invention. All provided information is kept confidential.

What constitutes a public disclosure?

Public disclosure includes communicating your invention to non-MUSC individuals through published manuscripts, conference presentations, webpages, grand rounds, dissertations, and funded government grants.

Why are the dates of disclosure important?

Inventors have one year from the date of public disclosure to file a patent application in the U.S. After this period, patenting the invention is no longer possible.

Why are Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure Agreements necessary?

These agreements protect proprietary information before sharing it with others. Without them, even casual conversations can be considered public disclosures, which could limit IP protections.

How does ZI help market my invention?

The Zucker Institute identifies potential commercial partners through various resources and prepares marketing materials. They contact companies to license the invention, secure research sponsorship, hire students, or engage you as a consultant.

Let’s work together to create a better future

At the Zucker Institute, we strive to provide a conducive environment that enables innovation. Through our extensive resources, we support researchers in translating their ideas into impactful solutions.