Giovanni Tolin is an Assistant Professor in Innovation Management at the Institute of Management, Sant'Anna School of Advanced Studies (Pisa, Italy), where he also received his PhD. His research explores how universities, firms, and intermediaries turn scientific knowledge into economic and societal impact. His work connects technology transfer and open innovation, with a particular focus on the governance of university–industry collaboration.

He has been a Visiting Researcher at Imperial College Business School. He serves on the editorial board of The Journal of Technology Transfer. His recent publications address topics such as the governance of technology transfer, proof-of-concept programs, university–industry interactions, and corporate venture clienting. He also bridges research and practice as Managing Partner of Lab11, a spin-off company in technology transfer and open innovation.