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 to:
• 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 utilised 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.