Strengthening its role as a driver of research, innovation and economic growth, the University of Nebraska remains one of the world’s top institutions for earning patents.

In the latest report from the National Academy of Inventors, the NU system climbed six spots to No. 49 nationally and remained among the top 100 globally after securing 47 U.S. utility patents in 2024. This marks the eighth consecutive year that the combined research efforts of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, University of Nebraska Medical Center and University of Nebraska at Omaha have earned the global distinction.

“At the University of Nebraska, innovation is part of our DNA,” said Dr. Jeffrey P. Gold, president of the NU system. “Our ability to move ideas from the lab to the marketplace is a clear measure of our impact, and this recognition reflects our sustained dedication to advancing science and ultimately improving lives. I’m grateful to our faculty, students and staff whose creativity and collaboration continue to drive discovery, economic growth and progress for our state and the world.”

Utility patents, granted by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, are awarded to the university’s technology transfer offices — NUtech Ventures at UNL, and UNeMed Corp. at UNMC and UNO. These patents protect new and useful inventions or discoveries, specifically covering how an invention works, what it does and how it is used.

The patents earned across the NU system are delivering real-world innovation in key areas including health care, agriculture, engineering and biotechnology. They help launch start-up companies, create jobs and generate university-licensed products that grow the Nebraska economy and improve quality of life worldwide.

“This ranking demonstrates that our faculty and research teams are among the best in the world at turning big ideas into solutions that address some of the most complex global challenges, said Rodney D. Bennett, chancellor of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. “Every patent tells a story of innovation, and it is inspiring to see our research making a difference in Nebraska and beyond.”

Ongoing collaboration between UNL and UNMC researchers remains a key driver of Nebraska’s strong patent ranking. Of the 47 patents earned across the NU system in 2024, seven were awarded to Virtual Incision — the faculty-led startup behind the MIRA surgical robot. The company was founded in 2005 by UNL’s Shane Farritor, David B. and Nancy K. Lederer Professor of Engineering, and Dimitry Oleynikov, a former UNMC faculty member.

Virtual Incision recently gained FDA approval for its surgical robotics platform and is currently available in use on the open market. Another 29 patents were awarded to projects led by UNL researchers. Highlights include:

• A next-generation memory device developed by Peter Dowben, Charles Bessey Professor of Physics and Astronomy;
• A method to improve the accuracy of direct-injection irrigation systems by Joe Luck, professor of biological systems engineering, and Chandler Folkerts, a graduate research assistant; and
• A process to generate a universal influenza vaccine by Eric Weaver, professor of biological sciences. 

A key patent for UNMC relates to the work of Dr. Howard Gendelman and Benson Edagawa, co-founders of Exavir Therapeutics. Their patented technology relates to long-acting formulations for the treatment of HIV.

Dele Davies, MD, interim chancellor of UNMC, said innovation was a critical factor in the university’s mission to improve the lives and health of people in Nebraska and beyond.

“This ranking demonstrates UNMC and the University of Nebraska’s commitment to fostering new ideas and seeking creative solutions that enhance the lives of our fellow Nebraskans and the people we serve,” he said. “We are especially gratefully to our faculty innovators whose dedication is translating ideas into real-world impact.”

Three patents related to UNO innovations, including new anti-parasitic compounds; an NCITE-created chatbot for reporting possible terrorism threats; and a self-pacing treadmill that is the cornerstone technology behind Impower, an Omaha startup.

“At UNO we strive to translate fundamental research to useful technologies that make a difference in individuals lives and society,” said Sara Myers, UNO’s associate vice chancellor for research and creative activity. “Congratulations to our faculty innovators and thank you to our technology transfer team who facilitates the idea-to-patent process.”

Additional patents UNeMed secured will protect University of Nebraska innovations related to shielding clinicians during fluoroscopic procedures; a tracking system for surgical saws used during implant procedures; and several other medical devices and discoveries. 

Learn more about the National Academy of Inventors’ Top 100 universities lists.

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