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Michael Straightiff
Vice President, Intellectual Property, University Relations & Licensing at iRhythm Technologies, Inc.
Professional Background
Michael Straightiff is a seasoned professional in the fields of biomedical engineering, intellectual property, and public policy. With extensive experience in strategic licensing and technology transfer, he has made significant contributions to the healthcare and technology sectors. Currently serving as the Vice President of Intellectual Property at iRhythm Technologies, Inc., Michael plays a pivotal role in advancing innovative technologies that improve patient outcomes. His leadership at iRhythm Technologies is marked by a commitment to fostering university relationships and managing comprehensive licensing strategies that facilitate the translation of research into practical applications.
Before his current role, Michael was the Vice President of Intellectual Property Acquisitions, Licensing, and University Relationships at Dexcom, a company that specializes in continuous glucose monitoring for diabetes management. In this capacity, he successfully expanded Dexcom's portfolio by establishing secure collaborations with leading academic institutions and research entities. His expertise in bridging the gap between technology and clinical application has enhanced Dexcom's ability to deliver cutting-edge solutions to patients.
Michael's career began in academia, where he served as the Executive Director of the University of Virginia Licensing & Ventures Group. There, he was instrumental in commercializing university research, discerning promising technologies, and cultivating relationships with industry partners. His tenure also included significant roles at the Technology Transfer Office at Case Western Reserve University, where he directed biomedical engineering commercialization efforts. Through his comprehensive understanding of both the scientific and business aspects of technology transfer, Michael has developed a prominent reputation in the industry.
Additionally, Michael has shared his insights as a member of the advisory board at NOCTEM Health, leveraging his experience in intellectual property to guide the organization’s innovations in healthcare technology.
Education and Achievements
Michael Straightiff's educational background provides a strong foundation for his career in biomedical engineering and business. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Engineering from Case Western Reserve University, where he developed a solid understanding of the principles of engineering and their applications in the healthcare field. Following this, he advanced his education by obtaining a Master’s degree in Public Policy from George Mason University, enhancing his ability to navigate the regulatory landscapes affecting healthcare innovations.
Further bolstering his strategic acumen, Michael completed his Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) in Finance at the Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University. This combination of engineering, public policy, and business education allows him to approach problems holistically, making informed decisions that foster innovation and progress within the organizations he serves.
Notable Achievements
Michael’s career is marked by numerous achievements that underscore his expertise in intellectual property and technology transfer. As a former Patent Examiner at the United States Patent and Trademark Office, he gained critical insights into the patenting process, which he later applied in various licensing roles, especially during his time at Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties and Case Western Reserve University. His experience as a Senior Licensing Associate has empowered him to navigate complex licensing agreements, ensuring that innovations reach the marketplace effectively.
At Case Western Reserve University's Technology Transfer Office, he was pivotal in advancing intellectual property initiatives and fostering collaborative research partnerships, directly impacting the commercialization of biomedical technologies. Michael’s strategic thinking and ability to forge collaborative agreements have been essential in his various leadership roles, ultimately driving innovation in healthcare technology.
Throughout his career, Michael has focused on fostering collaborations between academic institutions and the private sector, believing firmly in the importance of partnerships in developing new technologies. His leadership and vision in intellectual property management have not only benefited the companies he has worked for but also the wider healthcare community by helping bring transformative technologies to market.
Achievements
Education:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Biomedical Engineering from Case Western Reserve University
- Master’s Degree in Public Policy from George Mason University
- Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) in Finance from Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University
Professional Experience:
- Vice President, Intellectual Property, University Relations & Licensing at iRhythm Technologies, Inc.
- Formally Vice President, Intellectual Property Acquisitions, Licensing, and University Relationships at Dexcom
- Formerly Executive Director at University of Virginia Licensing & Ventures Group
- Formerly Director of Biomedical Engineering Commercialization at Technology Transfer Office, Case Western Reserve University
- Formerly Senior Licensing Associate at Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties
- Formerly Licensing Associate at Technology Transfer Office, Case Western Reserve University
- Formerly Patent Examiner at United States Patent & Trademark Office
Location
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