COGR submitted a response to the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) request for comments regarding proposed new intellectual property (IP) frameworks for public-private partnerships, expressing concern that prescribed, inflexible IP terms could hinder successful technology transfer and commercialization of federally funded research. COGR argued that current practices, which allow for the negotiation of project-specific IP arrangements and draw on established best practices, are more effective in balancing the interests of academic and industry partners, promoting innovation, and managing risks and costs. The response emphasized the need for the NSF to adopt core licensing principles or best practices rather than rigid option frameworks, to enhance flexibility, clarify key issues (such as patent cost allocation, jointly developed IP, and license definitions), and consult all stakeholders to ensure that future IP policies support both the translation of research into practice and continued U.S. leadership in innovation.
Kevin Wozniak
Kevin Wozniak is the Director of Research Security & Intellectual Property at COGR.
