Vladimir Karanik, Chairman of the Presidium of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus (NASB), told the STV channel about the NASB efforts to improve the economic efficiency of scientific research, BelTA has learned.
Vladimir Karanik noted that alongside acquiring new knowledge and conducting fundamental research, which will form the basis for the development of science over the next 5-10 years, an important task is increasing the economic efficiency of scientific developments.
“Our task is to be closer to the real sector of the economy, to respond more quickly and more effectively to the demands of our flagship enterprises,” said the chairman of the NASB Presidium, adding that results can only be achieved through an integrated approach.
He outlined three areas for the monetization of scientific research. One of them is when a technology developed by scientists transforms into a new enterprise. As an example, Vladimir Karanik cited the Konus hot-dip galvanizing plant, which was built from scratch and has been operating successfully for several years.
The second area of monetization is responding to the needs of the real sector. “A specific customer comes with a specific issue, and we develop the technology. For example, the Physics and Technology Institute works with plasma spraying, induction heating machines, and metal hardening equipment, which are widely used by our flagship companies – MTZ, MAZ, BelAZ,” explained Vladimir Karanik.
The third area, currently not the largest, involves developments for which intellectual property rights (royalties) are sold.
“Our plant breeders were the most active last year. Producers paid them royalties for growing the grain varieties they developed. Last year alone, this amounted to nearly Br1.9 million,” Vladimir Karanik said.
