About Vice-Principal ResearchThe following are frequently asked questions about the invention and intellectual property (IP) disclosure process.
An invention is a novel process, a machine or device, or an improvement on the aforementioned that provides a new and useful solution to a problem. It may result from research activities and could potentially be patentable, licensed to industry, and/or developed into a startup.
Inventions may include new materials, new or improved devices, machines, molecules, methods and processes, drug formulations, engineering innovations, software, and AI algorithms. Other types of intellectual property that may be protected and commercialized include surveys, questionnaires, proprietary data sets, and know-how.
Intellectual property (IP) has a broader definition than an invention and can be defined as creations of the mind which can include an invention. IP can also include literary and artistic works, designs and symbols, images, and names (like trademarks) used in commerce.
According to the , you are not required to disclose your invention to Queen’s Partnerships and Innovation (QPI), however, many external funding agencies, including government and industry partners, require disclosure as part of their grant agreements.
As early as possible—preferably before public disclosure (such as journal publication, conference presentation, discussion with external collaborators) which can limit patentability and commercialization opportunities. Ideally the QPI team prefers a lead time of 90 days in order to properly review and process the disclosure.
You can complete an Invention Disclosure Form or Software Disclosure Form found on the QPI website. Our team will review your submission, assess commercial potential, and discuss the next steps, including intellectual property protection and commercialization pathways with you/your co-inventor(s).
After submission, QPI will:
- Evaluate the invention’s novelty, commercial potential, and patentability
- Assist you to find funding and industry partnership opportunities
- Help determine the best path forward, including patenting, licensing, or startup formation, if any are applicable
Yes! Disclosing an invention to QPI does not prevent you from publishing. However, to preserve world-wide patent rights for your invention a patent application should be filed before public presentations or publications.
According to the Queen’s Intellectual Property (IP) Commercialization Policy, all IP wholly or partially created by a researcher(s) and/or student(s), in the course of their employment by the university and/or with use of university facilities, shall be owned by the researcher(s) and/or student(s) who creates it, unless the researcher(s)/student(s) have agreed to an alternative arrangement by written contract.
In the event that the inventor(s) and Queen’s (through QPI) enter into an agreement to protect and commercialize an invention, ownership of the invention shall be transferred to Queen’s University. Future proceeds from commercialization of the technologies would be shared between the inventors and the university.
Disclosing an invention to QPI can:
- Protect your intellectual contributions and preserve patentability of the IP
- Open funding and industry partnership opportunities
- Support commercialization efforts, increasing the real-world impact of your research
- Enhance your professional recognition and career advancement
- Provide financial incentives through revenue-sharing policies
If you're unsure, reach out to QPI for a confidential consultation. Our team can provide guidance and help determine next steps towards possible protection and commercialization.