top of page
Search

Unpacking Patents for Professors: The Overlooked Role of IP in Academia

In the ever-evolving landscape of research and innovation, academic institutions are often at the forefront of groundbreaking discoveries. Professors and researchers contribute significantly to scientific, technological, and social advancements through years of rigorous inquiry and experimentation. Yet, despite this rich output of original ideas and inventions, one critical aspect remains significantly underutilized within academia: patents.

While academic publishing continues to be the primary currency for recognition and career advancement, patents remain an overlooked yet powerful vehicle for safeguarding and leveraging innovation. This blog aims to explore the role of intellectual property (IP), particularly patents, in academia, demystify the patenting process for professors, and underscore why institutions must proactively support IP literacy and protection.

Hand holding a light bulb against a serene pastel sunset sky, symbolizing creativity and bright ideas.
Hand holding a light bulb against a serene pastel sunset sky, symbolizing creativity and bright ideas.

1. The Traditional Academic Mindset: Publish or Perish


For decades, academic success has been measured by publications in peer-reviewed journals, citations, and conference presentations. These benchmarks still matter. However, this focus often sidelines the importance of protecting research outcomes through patents, especially when those outcomes have commercial potential.

The challenge is cultural as much as procedural. Many professors operate under the assumption that publishing their work is the ultimate goal. However, once research is published, the opportunity to patent that innovation may be lost, as the publication itself becomes prior art, rendering the invention unpatentable in many jurisdictions.


2. Why Patents Matter for Professors and Institutions

Patents are not just for startups or corporations. In the academic context, they serve multiple purposes:

  • Protecting Innovations: Patents ensure that the novel ideas and inventions developed through research are legally protected from unauthorized use.

  • Attracting Industry Collaborations: Patented technologies are more attractive to companies looking for partnerships, funding, or licensing opportunities.

  • Enhancing Institutional Reputation: Universities and colleges that actively file and hold patents are seen as innovation hubs, increasing their appeal to funders and prospective students.

  • Generating Revenue: Patents can be licensed or commercialized, creating new income streams for institutions and inventors.

  • Boosting Grant Applications: Many national and international funding bodies now assess the IP potential of research proposals.


3. Common Myths and Misconceptions


"I Need to Publish First, Then Patent".


Wrong. To protect patentability, it is crucial to file a patent application before publishing. The idea that one must wait to publish until after securing a patent is vital to understand. Early disclosure without protection is the most common cause of lost patent opportunities in academia.


"Patenting is Only for Commercial Products."


Not true. Any novel, non-obvious, and industrially applicable invention—whether a device, process, or composition—can be patented. Many academic inventions may never become consumer products but still have research or industrial value.


"It’s Too Expensive and Complicated."


While the patent process involves cost and time, many governments offer reduced fees for educational institutions. Additionally, working with IP firms or internal IP cells can make the process smoother and more cost-effective.


4. The Ideal Path: From Research to Patent to Publication


Professors and researchers must adopt a simple rule: “Patent first, then publish.” 

Here’s a typical recommended process:

  1. Identify the Invention: Assess whether your research outcome is new, useful, and non-obvious.

  2. Confidentiality First: Avoid presenting or publishing the idea publicly.

  3. Consult IP Experts: Work with an in-house IP cell or an external IP firm to evaluate patentability.

  4. File a Provisional Application: This secures an early filing date while you continue research.

  5. Publish Your Work: Once the provisional application is filed, you can publish your findings without jeopardizing your IP rights.

  6. Proceed with Full Patent Filing: Within 12 months, convert the provisional into a complete specification and continue with the patent process.


5. Real Benefits: Case Studies from Indian Academia

  • IIT Madras: One of the top patent-filing academic institutions in India, IIT Madras leverages a strong IP ecosystem that supports faculty and students in converting ideas into patents and startups.

  • Anna University: Their Technology Business Incubator has helped many faculty-led innovations reach the market through patents and commercialization.

  • NIPER Mohali: This pharmaceutical research institute has secured patents for various drug formulations and attracts industry collaborations due to its robust IP output.


6. Role of Educational Institutes in Supporting IP Culture


If professors are to embrace patenting, the institutional environment must be conducive to IP generation. Here’s how colleges and universities can enable this shift:

  • Set Up or Strengthen IP Cells: These units should guide faculty through the IP lifecycle.

  • Organize Workshops and Training: Regular seminars on patent basics, drafting, filing, and commercialization can demystify the process.

  • Provide Incentives: Recognize and reward patent filings and grants alongside publications.

  • Offer Funding Support: Create internal funds to support early-stage patent filings, especially for provisional applications.

  • Collaborate with IP Firms: Tie up with expert IP firms to offer ongoing mentorship and services to faculty and students.


7. How We Can Help: Hosting IP Workshops in Your Campus


At Ineurous IP, we specialize in equipping academic institutions with the knowledge, tools, and support needed to build a thriving IP ecosystem. Our on-campus and online workshops are tailored for:

  • Faculty members across all disciplines

  • PhD and postgraduate researchers

  • Undergraduate innovators

  • IPR cell coordinators


Our workshops cover:

  • Introduction to Intellectual Property and its types

  • Deep dive into patents: criteria, process, timelines, and costs

  • How to identify patentable research

  • Drafting and filing strategies

  • IP commercialization and licensing

  • Real-world case studies from Indian academia


By empowering professors with IP awareness, institutions can transition from being knowledge generators to becoming innovation leaders.

A lecturer engages students in a classroom, discussing topics displayed on a screen and chalkboard, creating an interactive learning environment.
A lecturer engages students in a classroom, discussing topics displayed on a screen and chalkboard, creating an interactive learning environment.

Final Thoughts: The Time to Act is Now


In today’s knowledge-driven economy, the value of a professor’s contribution doesn’t end at a journal publication. It begins there. Patents serve as the bridge between academic theory and societal application. As the global trends push Indian academia toward innovation, it’s imperative that professors understand, value, and utilize the power of intellectual property.

If you're an educator, researcher, or institutional leader, now is the time to unlock the full potential of your research through patents.


Interested in organizing a Patent Awareness Workshop in your institute?

Reach out to us at collaboration@ineurousip.com or follow us on WhatsApp https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbB4arfJENxygb3NbR3L


Ineurous IP: Empowering Academia with IP Excellence.

bottom of page