Generally speaking, the IDF is a straightforward form to complete. However, when completing and submitting a form, the following points should be kept in mind:
- It is important that the IDF identifies all those who are considered to be inventors, i.e. those that have had an inventive contribution to the invention. All of the designated inventors should sign the IDF and agree their percentage ownership prior to submission.
- The rules for naming inventors are much stricter than the general guidelines employed for determining co-authorship. Whereas typically persons who have been involved in the development of a project are listed on related publications as co-authors, many such co-authors would not necessarily be deemed inventors by legal determination. In order to be deemed an inventor, an individual must have made a material contribution to the conception of the invention. Simply taking part in the reduction-to-practice of the invention does not make an individual an inventor. If there is doubt as to who should be designated as inventors, please contact the Technology Transfer Office for provisional advice prior to submission of the IDF.
- Patents are commercial tools, and not awards for sound research. Therefore, one of the most important parts of the IDF is the section dealing with commercialisation, and it is important that due consideration is given to this section.
- It is important that the PI carries out a comprehensive patent search to establish the novelty of the invention prior to submission of the IDF. Details of such searches should be disclosed in the IDF, even if no relevant prior art is revealed.