Abstract:

This guide is intended to act as a quick reference for use by NARO staff from time to time during research. It was prepared to answer questions that the researchers working with NARO might ask and aid their understanding of how Intellectual Property (IP) considerations can effectively be integrated into their research activities. Its aim is to provide a broad overview of key issues in IP management process generally, with additional pointers of what is likely to arise during research to help researchers understand the key steps and questions they should consider, and the implications of protecting, or not protecting, any IP that they generate while conducting research and developing products. The Researchers’ Guide to Intellectual Property explains essential elements of IP Management at the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) and other important concepts relating • The nature of IP and how to protect it; • How to identify technologies with IP and commercial feasibility • How IP can be commercialised and exploited; • How IP impacts on the activities of researchers and• Confidentiality in generating IP. It is the mission of the NARO IP Office to capture the advances, discoveries and technologies developed by or assigned to NARO and to transform them into products that will enhance NARO’s reputation and attract commercial opportunities. The IP Office is keen at promoting the effective identification, disclosure, protection and management of technologies and innovations, to facilitate informed and appropriate decision-making in respect of how the IP concerns can best be utilized for the benefit of NARO and improve the prospects for successful technology transfer to the market. Remember that this is just a guide and not a substitute to seeking for technical guidance. It has also to be read in the context of NARO’s IP Policy framework and other relevant policies and guidelines.