Denichiro “Denny” Otsuga, PhD, RTTP, serves as director of the University of Hawaiʻi’s Office of Innovation and Commercialization. He brings more than 20 years of experience in university technology transfer, research commercialization, venture development, and innovation ecosystem building in the United States and Japan. Prior to joining UH, Otsuga held leadership positions at Kobe University and Kobe University Innovation, Colorado State University Ventures, the University of Kentucky, South Dakota State University, and the University of Utah.

His experience spans intellectual property management, licensing, startup formation, industry partnerships, venture capital, and commercialization strategy, including work supporting entrepreneurs, investors, and early-stage technology companies. A PhD-trained scientist and Registered Technology Transfer Professional, Otsuga is committed to helping translate university research into practical solutions, new ventures, and meaningful economic and societal impact for Hawaiʻi and beyond.