We're here to help advise on the protection of your intellectual property (IP) in order to derive maximum benefit from it. We can give you advice on ownership and protection of research results routes for commercial exploitation, the patent process and finding commercial partners for IP licensing.

Types of IP

  • Copyright protects material, such as literature, art, music, sound recordings, films and broadcasts
  • Designs protect the visual appearance or eye appeal of products
  • Patents protect the technical and functional aspects of products and processes
  • Trade Marks protect signs that can distinguish the goods and services of one trader from those of another

IP also covers know-how (trade secrets), plant varieties, geographical indications, performers' rights and so on. Often, more than one type of IP may apply to the same creation.

Get in touch
Dr Robert Singh Deputy Director (Enterprise)
Research and Enterprise Office
Telephone: 01206 874278