As early nanotechnology applications make it to market, Europe is lagging behind, according to a new global survey. Nuala Moran investigates.

Nanotechnology is beginning to leave the laboratory and hit the high street – but health scares could stop this commercialisation process in its tracks.

French and Belgian researchers have genetically modified strains of the bacteria as treatments for human gastrointestinal disorderse – and are keen to form licensing and partnering deals to take this research forward.

Philips has announced the first fruit of its deal with the venture capital firm New Venture Partners to spin out companies based on research carried out in Philips’ corporate research laboratories.

What do patent statistics tell you about innovation? It depends how you count them, says the OECD. Nuala Moran investigates.

Sarissa Biomedical, a spin-out from the University of Warwick, that has designed a sensor to give an early warning of fetal hypoxia during birth, is looking for investors to strike licensing agreements.

Europe is lousy at reaping the commercial benefits of its R&D. To spur reform, Science|Business is preparing a “manifesto” of policy measures for technology transfer and innovation. What’s needed? A revolution.

25.7%. The annual rate of increase in patent applications by foreign companies in China, 1991 to 2001

What is wrong with France’s basic research? There’s something missing, but it’s not resources, says Jean-Marc Schlenker.

Philippe Pouletty is a man with a mission - to make France synonymous with biotechnology. He has his work cut out...