David Anderson, professor at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville’s Institute of Agriculture, never expected to commercialize technology he created — much less help other faculty and staff navigate their own commercialization journeys.
Growing up in a small town surrounded by animals, Anderson always wanted to work with animals and become a veterinarian. During graduate school, he discovered a love for emergency medicine, surgery and conducting research, which eventually led him away from private practice work and into academia.
I always had a connection to agriculture and the land,” said Anderson. “Finding a way to blend those interest areas was perfect.”
Anderson is the Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Studies in the College of Veterinary Medicine. Previously, he served as Department Head for the Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences. His research focuses on translational biomedical science and regenerative medicine, particularly the development of platforms for tissue regeneration.
I maintain a very active lab,” said Anderson. “I try to always build teams and connect people. I do what I do because of the people. Each day, I look forward to going to work and being around people who are trying to achieve something greater than the sum of their parts.”
Dr. Anderson in the lab.
Several years ago, Anderson co-founded NuShores Biosciences to commercialize patented bone and tissue regeneration technologies developed at the University of Arkansas. His startup experience helps him relate to faculty and staff in his department and encourages them to see potential possibilities of their research – patents, licenses or startup ventures.
Most faculty members did not join a university to get patents and commercialize products. They’re here because they love research and teaching,” said Anderson. “I want to demystify everything and make the process more approachable.”
Each year, he invites the UT Research Foundation to educate his college about commercialization options available to them. Anderson is thankful for his strong partnership with UTRF, as they have assisted his own recent work in intellectual property.
Dr. Anderson and the Regenerative Medicine team, 2019
Dr. Anderson is a true champion of entrepreneurial and tech transfer culture within the UT Institute of Agriculture,” said UTRF President Maha Krishnamurthy. “Invention disclosures, patents and licensing can be overwhelming for many inventors. UTRF is glad to work with Dr. Anderson to move more UTIA ideas into the marketplace.”
Ultimately, Anderson sees himself as someone who leads by example. He spends most of his time helping others attain their goals – whatever they might be – and become successful professionals.
Dr. Anderson speaking at a College of Veterinary Medicine event
I want them to accomplish their goals more efficiently, effectively and in a supportive environment,” said Anderson. “Most of our faculty are doing service, teaching and research all at once, so I try to help them prioritize and elevate their work and find ways to fund their research. I want people to exceed their potential.”
