Assessing Inventions

Each invention disclosure is evaluated both for its commercialization potential (i.e. whether the invention has the potential to fill a market need) and its associated opportunities and challenges. The commercialization potential is based on the strength of the intellectual property (IP), the invention's stage of development and the estimated time and resources needed t0 market it. A summary of the data is provided to the university's Patent Board, composed of faculty, inventors, technology commercialization professionals and legal advisors, to determine if the university should invest in patenting the technology. The board members recommend whether to file for IP protection or not. The final decision is made by the Board's Chair, the Vice President for Research and Economic Development.