Scientists deal with the new and surprising on an almost daily basis, and sometimes these discoveries can lead to inventions, such as a new molecule, process or an original device. Improvements, even small ones, that result in unexpected benefits can be considered inventions. Of course, history is full of inventors with fascinating stories – from Thomas Edison to biochemist Katalin Karikó, who laid the groundwork for mRNA vaccines, to Stephanie Kwolek, the chemist who invented Kevlar – and inventions that have impacted our lives.
A scientist can become an inventor when they file for a patent to reserve the intellectual property rights on the solution, or invention, they have developed. In general, an invention can be considered patentable if it is novel, involves an inventive step and has industrial applicability.
Scientists often thrive on exploration, research and solving complicated puzzles, but becoming an inventor adds another layer of complexity. Transitioning from scientist to inventor turns you into an active player in the competitive commercial world. On a personal level, it can be an exciting, challenging journey. It might catapult you from the bench to becoming an entrepreneur.
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If you are a scientist and you think you have an invention on your hands, here are a few considerations to help you make informed decisions about how to move forward.
1. What does your invention do?
Consider whether, beyond solving a theoretical problem, your discovery provides a solution that is functional, accessible and impactful in the real world. This can also help you not only to identify its potential societal impact or contribution to the world but also to assess if a patent is worth pursuing. A search online or attendance at industrial events will help you gain an idea about how competitive your solution might be compared with what is already on the market.
2. Are your invention’s benefits needed beyond the lab?
To find out how your invention might bring societal benefits outside the lab, start with market research. An internet search or researching companies selling similar solutions can help you to understand demand, what is already available and how your solution is different from or, hopefully, better than what existing products offer. Contacting professionals in business, design or marketing can also provide valuable insights. Don’t be shy – reach out to them with a short, honest message and ask them what you’d like to know.
3. Do you understand intellectual property?
Take time to get informed about intellectual property (IP). Your idea might be your IP or it might belong to your institution; have a look at your employment contract to clarify the situation. In any case, understanding IP law is crucial if you want to commercialise your discovery. Consider consulting not only the internal technology transfer office but also with a patent attorney and, later, if appropriate, filing patents or registering trademarks or copyright to protect your invention. An IP attorney can explain the steps you need to take to ensure your ideas remain yours and advise you on how to discourage infringement. Moreover, the first consultation is often offered free.
4. What is the story of your discovery?
Outreach is key in effectively commercialising research. You might be used to publishing your results and ideas in research papers, but inventors need to pitch their ideas compellingly to non-specialists. Whether you’re presenting to colleagues, potential investors, partners or customers, consider refining your story as well as your own storytelling skills. Being able to share a compelling narrative can make the difference between getting the attention of global companies and not seeing your invention in the market.
5. Who can help you?
Becoming an inventor does not have to be a lonely adventure. Surround yourself with proactive people who have your back and can equally foster open communication. Consider colleagues with similar experiences, international networks and local innovation centres. Reaching out directly via social media to relevant professionals can help you gain an expert opinion and advice on moving forward. Do not forget to take advantage of any offers provided by your institutional technology transfer office and of the training offered by the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) or the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).
If you are a scientist with an invention in your hands, you might worry about how to juggle these roles effectively without compromising your scientific pursuits, reputation and credibility. You might be concerned about failing or stepping out of your comfort zone. Will being an inventor make you less of a scientist?
What I can suggest, from personal experience, is that being an inventor can only add quality and experience to your life journey.
Greta Faccio is a scientific innovation consultant based in St Gallen, Switzerland.
Disclaimer: Please note that this message does not constitute legal advice. It is intended for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional legal counsel.
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