University technology transfer and licensing present unique challenges that can trip up counsel who aren't often involved in these deals. Counsel advising private companies on technology transfer deals with university faculty or employees must understand the ins and outs of technology transfers and licenses in the university context.
Technology transfers present financial opportunities but involve legal risks, such as potential IP infringement or the failure of related services to provide the expected value.
Private companies typically have different goals than the university when contracting technology transfers. Historically, university licensing programs focused on patent rights. However, universities assert their copyrights in software and other IP rights in the technology.
Those involved in the negotiations must beware of potential conflicts of interest with faculty or university employees who may have a financial interest in the transfer or license in addition to their university employment.
Counsel can draft and negotiate a deal in their clients' best interests by understanding the critical elements to include in agreements--and the common pitfalls involved in university technology transfers.
Listen as our authoritative panel of IP attorneys discusses the different types of technology transfer agreements, examining the pros and cons of each. The panel will also discuss critical provisions to address in technology transfer negotiations and guide challenges that often arise in this context.
