Boston University
Boston, Massachusetts
Private University
Founded 1839
Boston University is a major research university with strong commercialization in biomedical sciences, photonics, and computing.
$784.4M
R&D (FY2024)
41
US Patents (2025)
$21.1M
Business-Funded R&D
Research and Commercialization Data
Total R&D Expenditures
5-Year Change: 34.5%
Avg: 703.7
- Research spending (FY2024): $784.4M total, of which $21.1M was funded by business. NSF National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
- US patents granted (2025): 41 (rank #52). National Academy of Inventors
- BU does not publish annual tech transfer figures (disclosures, licenses, startups, licensing revenue) that we could find.
Research Focus Areas
Biomedical Sciences
Infectious disease, cancer, and neuroscience
School of MedicineNational Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories
Photonics & Optics
Optical systems and photonic devices
Photonics Center
Computing & AI
Machine learning, systems, and security
Computer Science
Related Market Maps
Explore market opportunities in deep tech categories relevant to BU's research focus.
Biotechnology
13.96% CAGRApplication of biological systems and organisms to develop products and technologies
Market Size$1.55T
Neurotechnology
13% CAGRTechnologies interfacing with the nervous system for medical and research applications
Market Size$17.3B
Quantum Computing
34.6% CAGRRevolutionary computing technology leveraging quantum mechanics for exponential speedups in specific problem domains
Market Size$1.6B
Notable Spinouts
Programs & Resources
Rankings & Recognition
#52National Academy of Inventors - US Utility Patents Granted
2025Tech Transfer Office
BU Technology Development (Office of Research)
Services Offered
- •IP management
- •Licensing
- •Startup support
- •Industry partnerships
Interested in Tech Transfer?
Learn how to navigate university licensing and commercialization