Proctor & Gamble signs master collaboration deal with the Hebrew University

Procter & Gamble has sealed a master collaboration agreement with the Hebrew University of Jerusalem under which it can work with researchers across the university.

The agreement, made with Yissum, the university’s technology transfer office follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding between P&G and Israel’s chief scientist in December 2010.

“[This] allows P&G scientists and research leaders to partner on a new level with Hebrew University faculty and researchers in areas such as biology, chemistry, colloid and surface science, to drive cutting-edge innovations that have the potential to impact a wide range of P&G's global product categories," said Jeff Hamner, P&G’s Vice President Corporate R&D.

P&G’s interest is, “A testimony to the level and diversity of the breakthrough science performed at the Hebrew University,” said Yaacov Michlin, CEO of Yissum. “We sincerely believe that this collaboration will benefit both sides, and are looking forward to enjoying its outcomes in the years to come.”

In 2007 P&G set up the Israel House of Innovation (IHI), an open innovation centre, to identify and form partnerships with entrepreneurs, researchers and companies in the country that are developing technologies in areas relevant to the company’s business.

The general manager of Procter & Gamble in Israel, Sophie Blum said, “The agreement will enable P&G to enjoy the breadth of research done at the Hebrew University.”

The Hebrew University is Israel’s leading academic institution, carrying out more than one third of all academic scientific research in the country and 43 per cent of its biotech research.