H. Translation of research findings and management of intellectual property
H.1 MRC-funded researchers have a responsibility to ensure that any findings which have a potential impact on clinical practice, public policy or the development of new treatments or preventive interventions are actively disseminated to the relevant user community. Plans for translation of such findings should be put in place in order to ensure that potential benefits for health or healthcare are realised as quickly as possible.
H.2 The potential for MRC-funded research to generate intellectual property of value should be anticipated throughout the life cycle of the project. Researchers should ensure they are aware of the ownership and arrangements for the management of intellectual property within their establishment. Steps should be taken to ensure that any results are effectively protected and any intellectual property generated is exploited.
H.3 All intellectual property, intellectual property rights, know-how, data, devices, reagents, or materials generated by MRC employees are normally the property of the MRC. This is usually also the case for visiting workers and students. Intellectual property generated within MRC units and institutes is managed by the MRC, in partnership with MRC Technology.
H.4 Arrangements for managing and handling intellectual property generated during a collaborative project, including additional conditions or requirements relating to the conduct of the project, should be clarified and agreed before any work commences. Transfer agreements and confidentiality agreements are important for protecting resources that may potentially have great value and should be considered. However, expert advice should be sought before entering into any such agreement; it is a requirement for MRC Technology to advise on all commercial contracts involving MRC units and institutes.
