David Linger, President and CEO, University of Cincinnati Research Institute
David Linger is the inaugural President and CEO of the University of Cincinnati Research Institute (UCRI). In this role, Mr. Linger is cultivating an open innovation and collaborative culture between industry and the University of Cincinnati. Mr. Linger has over 20 years of learning and success in bringing new technology and innovations to market through roles in product development, product management, technical marketing, and business development. In recognition for his leadership and passion for commercial partnerships and monetizing technology, Mr. Linger was awarded the 2008 GE Corporate IP Growth award. Previously, between 2004 and 2013, Mr. Linger was the Director of Technology Partnerships and Commercialization at GE Aviation. Other GE roles included technology licensing and business development. Prior to 2004, Mr. Linger held executive positions with Medical Device companies such as Hill-Rom and Ferne-Washington. These roles focused on brand management, portfolio management, and new product introduction. Accomplishments include product awards from ID magazine and the Medical Design Excellence Award. Previously, Mr. Linger was Vice President of Product Development and Business Development for Cold Jet Inc. who pioneered and perfected dry ice blasting technology for precision and industrial cleaning. This technology was marketed globally to 37 different industries.
After completing a BS in Aerospace Engineering from West Virginia University, Mr. Linger had the opportunity to join GE Aircraft Engines via the Edison Engineering Development Program. The Advanced Course in Engineering (ACE) soon followed and culminated with a MS in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Cincinnati. In 2009 Mr. Linger completed an MBA in Management and Entrepreneurial studies from Xavier University and received a DFSS Black Belt in Six Sigma. Mr. Linger currently holds eight patents and has previously spoken at international conferences on the topic of Open Innovation.