Jump to section:

  1. Whom do I contact?
  2. What is intellectual property?
  3. How do I get started?
  4. When should I contact UIRF?

1.  Whom do I contact?

Research and scholarship from University of Iowa faculty and staff often leads to innovations that can improve quality of life for people in the state, the nation, and worldwide. 

The University of Iowa Research Foundation (UIRF) works to secure intellectual property protections—such as patents and copyrights—for these innovations and partners with industry to support the commercial development of new products and services.

Contact information

319-335-4546
staff directory
uirf@uiowa.edu
UIRF website

2.  What is intellectual property?

Intellectual property (IP) is a work or invention created by intellectual effort. Depending on the type, IP may be protected through patents, copyrights, or trademarks, or maintained as a trade secret.

For definitions and information on university policies related to IP, refer to the UIRF Intellectual Property Policies page. 

3.  How do I get started?

First, contact UIRF. UIRF staff members work to move innovations from the lab to the marketplace welcome opportunities to discuss ideas, innovations, and emerging research directions with both new and experienced inventors. They can help you evaluate your idea and guide you through the process of moving innovations from the lab to the marketplace.

Then, familiarize yourself with the process to commercialize new innovations. 

4.  When should I contact UIRF?

Contact UIRF to submit an invention disclosure well in advance of any anticipated publication or presentation. Public disclosure may eliminate foreign patent rights and may create complications for U.S. patent rights. Learn more about when an invention is ready for disclosure and which form to use.