In a recent survey of its member companies, the Renewable Bioproducts Institute found an elevated interest in being even more connected to current research areas advancements in key areas across Georgia Tech.

RBI Executive Director Norman Marsolan released the executive summary of the survey, conducted in July and August. Seventeen key RBI member company representatives were interviewed or submitted comments.

“This survey has given us a number of ideas on how we can better connect with our member companies, find additional ways to communicate our research developments and allow industry leaders even more insider access to our faculty and students,” Marsolan said.

Based on the feedback, Marsolan announced RBI would implement several measures:

• Establish a members’ council to provide perspectives on research opportunities and strategies. 
• Redesign the process for company input into the selection of endowment-funded graduate research projects. 
• Arrange briefings for members on research progress.
• Expand opportunities to interact with students and advisors.
• Develop member-specific communications. 

An additional issue raised by those surveyed related to intellectual property and NDA procedures.  Marsolan said this was being addressed at the “highest levels of Georgia Tech,” where a working group has been formed to explore ways to streamline the process.

Marsolan said he valued the opportunity to hear from members and use their feedback to enhance the experience with faculty and students.  

“We appreciate their engagement and their desire to help us become an even better partner and better investment,” he said. “We believe these initial steps will further solidify the long-lasting engagement between industry and RBI.” 

Access the Executive Summary