Faculty Services
How do I know my discovery is an invention?
"Invention" is defined as a new and useful process, machine, article of manufacture, or composition of matter, or new or useful improvement upon them.
Why should I protect my discovery?
- Once your work is published as an abstract, manuscript, report, presentation, poster, or discussion with a third party in which you reveal information, it becomes more difficult to protect.
- After publication, your invention is not patentable outside the U.S. and we have only one year to file for a U.S. patent.
- Industrial partnerships can often result in financial sponsorship of your research, laboratory, students, etc.
- In addition to wide recognition, inventors share in monetary compensation for license fees, revenue payments, etc.
- University employees are required by law, by University policy and by employment contract to disclose discoveries and copyrightable works. See the General Rules, Policy on Patents and Copyrights.
What is OTM's role?
- Oversee all intellectual property for the university
- Provide intellectual property education for faculty and researchers
- Promote quality disclosures from faculty
- Accept, screen and assess disclosures for commercial potential
- Protect commercializable intellectual property through patents, copyrights and/or trademarks
- Market and license technologies and monitor licensee performance
- Distribute income according to University policy
