USM Named Top 10 Patent-Producing University for Third Consecutive Year

The University of Maryland continues to rank among the world’s leading academic institutions for translating research into patented innovations, according to a new report from the National Academy of Inventors.

Alongside its partners in the University System of Maryland (USM), the University of Maryland, College Park (UMCP) placed 10th among U.S. public institutions and 24th worldwide for patents awarded in 2025. This marks the third consecutive year that USM has maintained a top-10 ranking among public universities.

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office granted 107 patents to USM institutions in 2025, including 64 awarded to UMCP.

“Patents play a critical role in advancing university research beyond the lab—supporting collaboration, attracting investment and enabling discoveries to make a real-world impact,” said Ken Porter, College Park executive director of UM Ventures, an initiative of the University of Maryland Strategic Partnership: MPowering the State (MPower). “Our continued presence among the top patent-producing institutions reflects the strength of our innovation ecosystem and the commitment of our faculty and researchers.”

Innovations from UMCP researchers that received patents in 2025 include: 

• A sunscreen that reduces skin damage linked to oxidative stress while protecting against both UVA and UVB rays. Developed by Professor and Associate Chair of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics Kan Cao, in collaboration with her company MBlue Labs, the formulation uses methylene blue and avoids ingredients associated with coral reef damage and potential health concerns.
• A system for converting methane gas into liquid fuels and valuable chemicals, making it easier and more cost-effective to transport natural gas from remote locations. Developed by Director of the Maryland Energy Innovation Institute and William L. Crentz Centennial Chair in Energy Research Eric Wachsman and collaborators, the technology improves efficiency by recycling gases during the conversion process and reducing energy loss.
• A contact-free method for measuring heart rate using standard video, enabling more accessible and user-friendly health monitoring without wearable devices. Developed by Distinguished University Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering Min Wu, the technology improves accuracy by analyzing subtle changes in skin color while compensating for motion.
• An AI-powered aerial system that uses multiple sensors to detect hidden hazards such as landmines and unexploded ordnance. Developed by Professor of Physics and Geology Daniel Lathrop, the technology analyzes environmental conditions to improve detection accuracy and reduce false alarms across challenging terrain.

The National Academy of Inventors has published its annual Top 100 Worldwide Universities list since 2013, using data from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office to highlight institutions that play a leading role in advancing innovation and discovery.