The University of Southern California has secured a major success in advancing university–industry partnerships through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs.
Professors Brian E. Applegate, PhD, and John S. Oghalai, MD, along with their company partner AO Technologies LLC, have been awarded a Phase I NIH STTR grant to develop a groundbreaking new otoscope that uses optical coherence tomography (OCT) to generate 3D images of the tympanic membrane and middle ear. The OCT otoscope aims to augment or replace standard clinical otoscope imaging, offering more detailed visualization to improve the diagnosis and treatment of middle ear conditions.
This success highlights the effectiveness of OORI’s growing SBIR/STTR initiative, which helps USC faculty collaborate with small businesses to compete for federal innovation funding. The project initially was funded through USC’s Research Initiatives and Infrastructure (RII) unit and their internal SBIR/STTR Planning Award program. The project also benefited from guidance and support provided by the USC Stevens Center for Innovation, which played a key role in connecting the research team with resources to advance their technology.
USC’s investment in SBIR/STTR partnerships continues to strengthen its leadership in fostering innovation, supporting entrepreneurial faculty, and advancing technologies that can improve lives.
Congratulations to Dr. Applegate and Oghalai!