For Tebogo Machethe, entering the field of intellectual property was a serendipitous discovery. He first encountered intellectual property (IP) during an internship at the Patent Office in 2004. "I applied for an internship at the Patent Office," he remembers, "and that was my introduction to intellectual property. I had never even heard of it before.” Despite the unexpected start, he quickly became interested in the field and has been driven by a passion for IP ever since.
Since 1 June 2023, Machethe is serving as the Director of Innovation and Contracts at the Directorate of Research Development (DRD) at the UFS. His mission is clear: to bridge the gap between research and real-world applications by increasing the adoption of research outcomes in industry and transforming UFS research into commercial opportunities. With a background in IP management and technology commercialisation, Machete is committed to building strong stakeholder relationships that amplify the university's research impact.
Contracts management and innovation support
With over 15 years of experience in IP and commercialisation, Machete has refined his skills across a variety of sectors. His career spans roles at the Patent Office (CIPC), IP law firm Hahn & Hahn Inc., the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), and positions at multiple universities, including UJ and the UFS. His expertise covers the management of intellectual property, commercialisation of diverse technologies, and support for entrepreneurial ventures within both universities and science councils. His academic foundation in Engineering and Law further equipped him for the challenges and opportunities of his role.
His work at the university includes two areas: contracts management and innovation support. In contracts, Machete finds satisfaction in the smooth execution of agreements, ensuring the university meets its contractual targets. On the innovation front, he and his team are instrumental in guiding projects from early developmental stages to commercial maturity, eventually translating research into tangible market opportunities.
The interdisciplinary nature of his role means Machete frequently engages with a wide range of fields and technologies. He reflects, “I can’t be an expert in everything. So, I am constantly reading about other technical disciplines in order to be able to offer advice when researchers come knocking.”
Innovations translating into business ventures
Looking ahead, Machete envisions a future where UFS-generated intellectual property is actively making a difference in society. “I hope to see more UFS innovations being applied in ways that enhance the lives of ordinary people. Ideally, these innovations will translate into business ventures, addressing our country’s unemployment challenges and fostering economic growth,” he stated.
Outside of his work, Machete is a dedicated family man with three children. When he is not working, he enjoys spending quality time with his family, staying active through running and cycling, and diving into a good book whenever he has the chance. For Machete, it is about balance – making an impact professionally while staying connected to his loved ones and personal passions.