Eureka! From final year dissertations to doctoral theses and research work, there are countless scientific advances to be made at the University of Luxembourg. All the more so given its strong focus on research, with more than a thousand doctoral students among the 7,000 students enrolled.
How is the fruit of this labour remunerated? The rule is simple:
‟ Authors retain ownership of their academic work. But the University has the right to use them for teaching and research purposes.”
Head of the Partnership, Knowledge and Technology Transfer Office
So: no question of an extract from your thesis appearing on a goodie bearing the colours of the University of Luxembourg. The institution sees itself as the guarantor of the scientific discoveries made within its walls.
In fact, the Board of Governors voted in favour of a new IP policy this spring. “This first step clarifies the rights of creators, particularly in terms of revenue sharing, but also reflects the University’s desire to add value to research work by creating impact for society, in particular through the use of intellectual property,” add Christophe Haunold and Marie-Hélène Jobin, Vice-Rector for Partnerships and International Relations.
Patents, a considerable guarantee of security
However, there is an even higher level of protection for authors and researchers: patents. “We currently have a portfolio of around forty active patent families,” explains Christophe Haunold.
So what is the advantage of patenting your work? “Patents protect researchers and give them a kind of monopoly, because they are guaranteed to be one step ahead of their competitors,” explains Christophe Haunold.
Uncovering a scientific advance or a new breakthrough is one thing. But often, partnerships can be formed with third parties such as companies or institutions, who then invest resources and boost the impact of the creation.
While patenting your work is a guarantee of security, there is one detail that should not be overlooked: the patent must be filed before the content is published.
This is a timely reminder, as 26 April marks World Intellectual Property Day.
Photo at the top: © University of Luxembourg / Sophie Margue