The transformation at the University of Washington's TechTransfer department continues, with news that two experienced technology executives have joined the research and licensing organization. Todd Alberstone, who most recently served as chief privacy officer and associate general counsel at RealNetworks, is joining the department next week in the new role of director of intellectual property management. Meanwhile, former Microsoft manager David Cummings is joining as a licensing officer with a specialty in engineering and computer science.

TechTransfer Vice Provost Linden Rhoads said hiring Alberstone and Cummings proves that the UW is "carrying through on our commitment to make the UW industry friendly." She said that Alberstone is "really well known in the digital rights universe." In his new role, Alberstone will manage the intellectual property discoveries and work with outside counsel to make sure that UW inventions are protected.

"I am still pinching myself that he decided to join," she said. Cummings, she said, brings a wealth of experience in tech licensing, having worked at Microsoft with Jim Allchin and others on licensing transactions.

Since her appointment last June, Rhoads has been quickly transforming the TechTransfer department from its stodgy, slow moving reputation of the past into a more nimble organization that is designed to work directly with the business community.

The hiring of Alberstone and Cummings -- along with startup veteran Janis Machala -- are all steps to make the UW one of the leading centers of technology commercialization, said Rhoads. Story tip via Xconomy.