Independent Technology Transfer Expert
Karen established her own consultancy company, LaiKITT - Laigaard Knowledge Innovation & Technology Transfer, in 2025. She is working as a knowledge transfer consultant for ASTP where she is involved in a number of projects at European level as well as setting up a master class programme for ASTP members. She recently entered a part-time contract with the University of Southern Denmark where she works on the project, Spin-outs Denmark. In addition Karen works as an independent consultant for a variety of European universities and organisations.
Prior to setting up her own company, Karen worked for +20 years as Head of the Technology Transfer Office at the University of Copenhagen. She was responsible for the identification, protection, commercialisation and management of the University's IP portfolio. Karen and her team of approximately 20 people negotiated all IP-related research agreements between the University and external partners and licensed IP both to existing companies and new spin-outs.
During her +20 years as Head of the University’s Technology Transfer Office, Karen has been involved in large number of activities and initiatives. She was involved in the launch of the University’s Proof-of-Concept programme, in the introduction of the University’s annual Innovation Award and the establishment of UCPH Ventures A/S, a private wholly owned university company investing in UCPH spin-outs. She has been a member of the steering groups of the Danish National Network for Technology Transfer, Innotech, Nordic Innovation Fair and Spin-outs Denmark.
Karen served as president of ASTP from 2009-2011 and has since been involved in voluntary activities, notably as a member of the Programming Committee. She is regularly used as an international expert in various reviews around Europe.
From 1992-2002, Karen lived and worked in the United Kingdom where she was employed at the British Council Scotland and later at the University of Glasgow’s commercialisation office, Research & Enterprise.
Karen is currently studying for the Sommelier exam at the Scandinavian Academy of Wine.