Balancing IP Protection and Equitable Access in Healthcare Technology

In this episode of the Leadership Exchange, Danny Thompson sits down with Dr. Stephanie Adams, Director of Intellectual Property and Grants at Micron Biomedical, to explore how Micron’s groundbreaking microneedle patch is redefining drug delivery. Stephanie shares how this painless, self-administered technology—already making waves in global vaccine distribution—could transform access to healthcare worldwide.

They also discuss the intersection of IP protection and equitable access, the challenges of scaling a first-of-its-kind product, and how mission-driven innovation can drive real impact.

Key points from this episode:

- Micron Biomedical has developed a painless, self-administered microneedle patch for vaccines and injectables, reducing the need for cold storage and trained medical staff.

- The technology is already being used in clinical trials in Africa with support from the Gates Foundation, showing promise in improving vaccine access in low- and middle-income countries.

- Dr. Adams explains how Micron is protecting its innovations while keeping affordability and global accessibility at the core of its strategy.

- She shares her journey from molecular biology and IP law to public health and biotech, emphasizing how aligning passion and skills can lead to meaningful, purpose-driven careers.

Chapters

0:00 – The Problem with At-Home COVID Tests

0:46 – Meet Dr. Stephanie Adams

3:04 – What Micron Biomed Is Building

7:07 – How the Microneedle Patch Works

10:02 – Solving Needle Phobia and Expanding Use Cases

14:02 – Cold Chain Elimination and Global Distribution

16:46 – Community Feedback and Early Impact

19:36 – Balancing IP with Accessibility

23:13 – Scaling Production and Regulatory Navigation

26:02 – Stephanie’s Career Journey and Mission

30:51 – Most Rewarding Moment and Final Thoughts

Follow Dr. Stephanie Adams on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-adams-ph-d-415b681/

Sponsored by This Dot: thisdotlabs.com