Repurposing research data for commercial use: POPIA, a foil or a facilitator?

Abstract

and contribute significantly to the advancement of society. Research, while primarily and traditionally the domain of university research groups and university hospitals, is now increasingly being conducted by various actors and is frequently used in commercial applications. 21 Universities remain one of the primary institutions driven to commercialise research. Investment in emerging research areas leads to better funding, new jobs, industry development, and enhanced collaboration between universities and industry, which is often required in translating research into valuable products and therapies for the public. 22,23 Examples of such applications are in producing vaccines 24,25 , in clinical trials 26,27 , and in the development of medications, treatments, and products by pharmaceutical companies, and others 22,26-29 . Innovation and commercialisation promote economic growth and, in turn, advance human well-being and benefit society. 23