Invention Disclosure

The MSU Invention Disclosure Form [Word] should be printed, filled out completely, and signed by all the inventors. The form should be sent to MSUT with all supporting data and copies of all literature references. Submitting complete information helps MSUT make informed and timely decisions and will make it easier for an attorney to draft a patent application in the event that the university decides to file one.

When an invention disclosure form is received, the MSUT Technology Manager works with the creators/inventors, and others as necessary, to assess the patentability and commercial potential of the disclosed technology.

Early disclosure of university inventions reduces the likelihood of irreversible error that might result in the inability to patent a technology and also facilitates the collection of needed signatures and records from students and postdocs who may leave the university.

As stated in the university Patent Policy, all university inventions should be disclosed to the university prior to disclosing via any other form of communication (e.g., publications, presentations, or communications with third parties). See direct policy text below:

In order to assist the university in protecting university Inventions, university employees and students (including postdoctoral appointees, graduate and undergraduate students) shall disclose any university Inventions to the university prior to disclosing such discoveries or inventions through publications, presentations, or communications with third parties (including research sponsors) in a manner which may inhibit or preclude the university from obtaining patent protection.  Such disclosure may also be required to comply with legal and/or contractual obligations owed to governmental or non-governmental research sponsors. university faculty shall not disclose university Inventions in the course of performing Outside Work for Pay unless and until the university has had the opportunity to take the steps necessary to protect university Inventions through patent or otherwise.