What It Means to Be a Named Creator on MIT-Owned Intellectual Property

The Technology Licensing Office (TLO) is the MIT department that evaluates, manages, and licenses MIT intellectual property including (patented) inventions, copyrighted works, and tangible material, supporting the commercialization of MIT technologies. An exciting milestone in a researcher’s career is being named as an inventor on a patent, author, or contributor to MIT-owned intellectual property (IP). This recognition not only acknowledges your efforts but also opens various avenues for collaboration, commercialization, and impact. 

The Importance of Being Named

Being named implies that you have made a significant contribution to the creation of a novel technology, process, or methodology. The naming acknowledges your intellectual contribution and establishes you as a key participant in the project's development. As a named individual, you:

• Receive Formal Recognition on Patents: Your name appears on patent applications and, eventually, on granted patents, which can enhance your professional standing.
• Gain Credibility: Being named lends credibility, both within and outside the academic community, which can be beneficial for future research grants, partnerships, and employment opportunities.
• Contribute to Commercialization Strategy: You may have the opportunity to participate in discussions with the TLO about the commercialization strategy for the IP on which you are a named inventor. The nature and extend of these discussions are governed by MIT COI policy.
• Potentially Benefit Financially: If the IP is successfully commercialized, you may be entitled to a share of the royalties or other financial benefits received by MIT for the license, according to MIT's revenue-sharing policies.

Naming Inventors on Patents

The naming of inventors is a meticulous process governed by legal and ethical standards. It often involves:

1. Disclosure: Submitting a disclosure to the TLO, detailing the innovation and the contributions of each team member.
2. Assessment: The TLO and legal experts review the disclosure to determine inventorship based on legal criteria.
3. Filing: Once inventorship is established, patent applications are filed, and the named inventors are included in the official documents.

Your Responsibilities

Being named as an inventor on a patent application comes with responsibilities, such as:

• Documentation: Maintaining accurate records of your research, which may be essential for patent prosecution or defending the patent against infringement.
• Confidentiality: Respecting the confidentiality of the IP until it’s officially published or patented.
• Cooperation: Assisting the TLO and legal team in the patent application process, which may include providing additional information, reviewing drafts, and signing documents.

Conclusion

Being a named inventor on MIT-owned IP is a significant accomplishment that acknowledges your contribution to advancing technology and knowledge. It provides you with a platform for greater impact, both academically and commercially. We are here to guide you through this exciting journey, ensuring that MIT's innovations find their rightful place in the world.