IP Management at the University of Sussex Russell Nicholls IP Manager Empowered by Knowledge

About me… First degree – Neuroscience Career path? Second degree – IP Management Opportunities HE sector

Strategy headlines UoS Research Strategy Theme 4 – Feb 07 “In partnership with others, contribute to socio-economic well being, both in the region, nationally and internationally, as a result of exchanging ideas, knowledge and technology.” “play a major role in society and the economy, through productive knowledge exchange, including the licensing of intellectual property, patent registration and company creation.” “embed a positive, sustainable enterprise culture throughout the University.”

Sainsbury Review – Oct ‘07 Increasing competition in global economy Focus on science, technology and innovation for UK Roles for Government depts, Industry/SMEs, RCs and new TSB “The role of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in the knowledge economy: -“HEIs play an increasing role in the economy and the UK, with its world-class universities, is well placed. -“Research, teaching and knowledge transfer are fundamental roles for any HEI.”

What is it? Knowledge Transfer -Exchange of ideas, results, experiences and skills between universities, other research organisations, business, government, the public sector and the wider community to enable innovation Intellectual Property -Diverse set of property ownership rights concerning creations, ideas, expression and intellectual output. -Protection against plagiarism, piracy, copying – rewards innovation -Can be sold, transferred, securitised etc

Introduction to IP Patents Know how (trade secrets/ confidential information) Copyright Designs Plant cultivars Trade Marks Geographical indications Performers rights Circuit board topography Database right Sound recording Software

Patents in detail Inventions, processes, methods, products can be patented Criteria: -Novel – never before disclosed -Inventive – not obvious to skilled person -Industrially applicable Must be registered and examined 20 year monopoly Difficult, expensive and long process to get a patent Very strong protection against infringement

Copyright in detail Protects literary, musical and artistic creative works, recordings of sound and film and broadcasts etc Automatic right that exists as soon as the work is expressed or fixed – eg written. © 2008 R.Q.Nicholls Does not protect an idea, a name or an article. Prevents copying, adapting, distributing, performing, broadcasting or other communication to the public. Various length of protection between life of author plus 70 years and 25 years from creation. Includes a ‘Moral Right’ for the creator to be identified and to object to derogatory treatment.

IP Policy Employer owns all Employee IP Patents and software – commercial exploitation Copyright – academic dissemination Students own their IP (*usually) University decides best IP Strategy Set aside budget to pay for costs Revenue sharing of income Policy updates

New Opportunity ‘Technology Transfer’ favours science and technology New world order – ambitious senior management team Enterprise Board – at planning stage Support for knowledge-based business opportunities University grants for IP, marketing support, academic or teaching buy-out Contact: Even an early stage idea can get advice or guidance Get involved!

Thanks for listening Exec Summary: Government strategy feeds into University strategy Principles of IP Policy issues Chance to use your ideas to engage…