When research conducted at the University of Utah results in a technology or invention, university policy 7-002 and federal law say they need to disclose it to the Technology Licensing Office, but who does this policy cover?
The short answer is anyone who is employed by the U or uses university resources in their research should disclose their invention. This would include faculty, staff, postdocs and graduate and undergraduate students.
The longer answer is more complicated. Let’s break down some specific scenarios.
A professor develops a product in their field of research while working at home on the weekend.
If the invention falls in their “area of expertise,” the professor would need to disclose it to TLO regardless of when or where they invented it while employed by the U. The professor’s area of expertise is the skills or knowledge related to the research or work they do for the university.
A professor invents something unrelated to their “area of expertise.”
If the invention has nothing to do with the professor’s area of expertise and they did not use any university facilities or equipment, they do not need to disclose that invention.
A staff member invents something specifically related to their job.
A staff member who invents something while on the job or related to their job needs to disclose the invention if it falls in the employee’s area of expertise or job requirements.
Learn about an MRI tech’s experience starting a company
An undergraduate develops a product based on an idea they thought of while attending a class at the U.
The student does not need to disclose their work to TLO, unless they use university resources like equipment or facilities to create the product. Student entrepreneurs looking for resources or support can reach out to the Lassonde Entrepreneur Institute.
Every situation is unique. If you have questions about a specific question, a TLO staff member will be happy to help walk through different scenarios.
Review policy 7-002 for more details and examples
Contact our team if you have more questions!
