Rate My Professor Graham Strong

Dr Graham Strong serves as Commercialisation Manager at Otago Innovation Limited, the dedicated technology transfer and commercialisation entity of the University of Otago. Holding a PhD in Botany and a Master of Laws (LLM) from the University of Otago, Strong's academic journey is marked by interdisciplinary expertise bridging plant sciences and intellectual property law. His doctoral research focused on plant physiology, particularly the differential accumulation of nutrient elements in New Zealand mistletoes and their host plants, resulting in multiple peer-reviewed publications with a collective 187 citations. In 2022, he authored an LLM thesis entitled 'Is patent law effective at protecting Māori medical knowledge in mānuka from commercial exploitation by University Technology Transfer Offices? – a New Zealand University Technology Transfer Office Perspective,' exploring critical issues at the intersection of indigenous knowledge, patent law, and university commercialisation practices from a New Zealand perspective.

With over 25 years of business experience, including more than 12 years at Otago Innovation since 2012, Strong supports University of Otago researchers in transforming innovative ideas into marketable products, with a special emphasis on natural products and indigenous intellectual property. His postdoctoral work at the University of California, Davis, investigated organic rice production, enhancing his knowledge in sustainable agriculture. Beyond his professional role, Strong co-owns Wynyard Estate Saffron in Central Otago, established in 2012, which produces premium-grade saffron primarily for a nutraceutical eye health product. As a member of Ngāi Tahu, he integrates Māori perspectives into commercialisation strategies, promoting collaborative and ethical innovation. Strong has led key projects at Otago Innovation, such as the proof-of-concept for a novel blood glucose management product derived from dahlia tubers, announced in 2023, and earlier developments including diabetes supplements and educational tools like the international-launch educational software in 2019. His work facilitates the practical impact of academic research, bridging academia, industry, and indigenous communities.