Howard Bremer, one of the most influential figures in technology transfer, has passed away at the age of 90.
Bremer provided numerous contributions to technology transfer over his career, and was a strong force of influence on how the sector is the US is shaped today. Most notably, Bremer was one of the architects of the Bayh-Dole Act, which allowed universities to retain control over intellectual property originating from the institution over the federal government and paved the way for modern university technology transfer.
Bremer also helped support the development of the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation, one of the most successful tech transfer programmes in the US, and helped found the Association of University Technology Managers (AUTM) where he served as president and also provided mentorship to other members.
Although he officially retired in 1988, Bremer continued to contribute his talent and experience to WARF up until his final days. Bremer passed after a short illness, and is survived by his wife Caryl and four children.