Houston Area Schools Make Annual List of Best Universities for Certificates Granted

The University of Houston System reigns as patent king among Houston area colleges and universities.

A new list from the National Academy of Inventors places UH in 63rd place – with 27 utility patents issued in 2023 – among 100 recognized schools. As the university explains, utility patents are among the world’s most valuable assets because they grant inventors exclusive commercial rights to produce and use their technology.

Other Houston-area schools that appear on the list are Texas A&M University System, tied for 30th place with 66 patents, and Rice University, tied for 93rd place with 14 patents.

The University of Rochester in New York shares 63rd place with UH.

“This ranking highlights the commitment of our academic researchers, who explore the frontiers of knowledge to improve the well-being of our society,” said Ramanan Krishnamoorti, vice president of energy and innovation at UH, in a press release. Press release. “At UH, we are committed to creating new technologies that drive innovation, to boost Houston’s economy and solve some of the most perplexing problems we face. »

UH discoveries that received utility patents last year include:

• Methods for targeting cancer stem cells
• Carbon capture and conversion materials, systems and methods.
• A medical device that positions and tracks muscle activity in the legs.

Elsewhere in Texas:

• University of Texas System, ranking third with 235 patents
• Texas Tech University System, tied for 74th place with 20 patents
• Baylor University, tied for 80th place with 17 patents
• University of North Texas, tied for 90th place with 15 patents

Topping the UT System on the list are the University of California (546 patents) and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (365 patents).

“As we examine the current and future state of innovation in our country, we must ensure that the United States remains competitive in the international innovation ecosystem,” said Paul Sanberg, president of the National Academy of Inventors, in a press release. Press release. “Protecting intellectual property is a key element in this regard, and the… list allows us to recognize and celebrate universities and their faculty, staff and students who are not only innovating at high levels, but who are breaking new ground. further step by protecting their intellectual property through patents. »