Maintaining Inventor Engagement
By Joshua Goldberg, Co-Managing Partner
Maintaining engagement throughout the patent lifecycle can be challenging in academia
due to competing demands on researchers’ time, the long duration of patent
prosecution, and inventor unfamiliarity with the process. Effective approaches to resolve
this difficulty can include minimizing administrative burden, scheduling targeted
interactions, and providing clear, concise requests for input.
Centralized communication through the TTO can help avoid confusion and duplication.
Engagement may vary depending on incentives, including recognition, potential
financial returns, and interest in commercialization. Universities often provide
non-monetary recognition such as awards, announcements, and patent plaques. For
example, it is not uncommon for universities to feature a “walk of fame”, where plaques
of granted patents line the walls of a corridor or room, celebrating the contributions of all
involved inventors.
Another way to keep inventors engaged is by offering them the possibility to continue
their research in a spin-off startup company as an attempt towards commercialization.
Such arrangements typically require specific contract negotiations and licenses. Certain
but not all university researchers may be very excited by this opportunity, making them
more likely to engage with the university to protect the results of their research.
Timing of recognition also matters. Acknowledging contributions at both the filing and
issuance stages helps sustain interest and participation.
