IIS (Deemed to be University)
Intellectual Property (IP) Policy
Index
- PREAMBLE
- DEFINITIONS
- SCOPE OF THE POLICY
- OBJECTIVE OF POLICY
-
APPLICATION OF IP POLICY
- Ownership
- Responsibilities
- University
- Creator / Inventor / Researcher
-
IP ADMINISTRATION & PROTECTION
- Administration
- Intellectual Property Disclosure
- IDF – Invention Disclosure Format
- CAR – Copyright Application Request
- DAR – Design Application Request
- TAR – Trademark Application Request
- Evaluation of IP
- Confidentiality Agreement
- Record Keeping Procedure
-
IP EXPLOITATION & COMMERCIALISATION
- Licensing
- First-refusal Option for Sponsors
- Distribution of the Proceeds
-
MISCELLANEOUS
- Right to Regulate Policy
- Secrecy and Confidentiality
- Provisions for Penalty on Violation
- Dispute Resolution
- Jurisdiction
- Amendments
- Waivers
About This Policy
This policy document serves as the official reference for all Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) management at IIS (Deemed to be University). All IPR matters and activities will be governed by this policy. This is version 1.0 of the policy, effective from the date of notification by the University. The policy may be reviewed and revised periodically as deemed necessary by the University authorities.
PREAMBLE
Intellectual property (IP) can be characterized as the property in the expression/innovation of the ideas/technology. It is a creation of the mind, for example, an innovation, technology, a poem, or a design. In the university’s context, IP can be considered broadly as the results from research or creative projects. It protects the rights of individuals and institutions / business organization who have transformed their ideas into property by granting rights to the owners of those properties.
The current and stated IP policy of IIS(deemed to be University) aims to cover all conceivable aspects of intellectual property created by and for the university in the course of its educational endeavour’s, from the stage of locating and identifying them to their management, protection and commercialization.
The University acknowledges its responsibility to generate knowledge, create innovation and disseminate the information. Further, it supports and encourages efforts directed towards bringing the fruits of the university research in diverse fields of knowledge to public use and benefits.
The University is dedicated in providing an innovative environment where innovator can flourish and can be adequately rewarded for their innovative contribution. This may be possible by the recognition of intellectual property created by/through the University, protecting it and commercialize/gains by exchange of such intellectual property created. The generator of IP is inferred as an inventor/creator/researcher that holds the right of IP together with the university.
In order to establish the respective intellectual property rights and obligations of the University, its faculty, students, employees and other stakeholder in intellectual Property, the University needs to adopt a Intellectual Property Policy. Further, the Policy is meant to provide guidance for all concerned persons including academic and non-academic staff, students and outside sponsors, on the intellectual property practices and rules of the University. For this purpose, the IIS(deemed to be University) has established this Intellectual Property Rights Policy (herein referred as “Policy”) to manage its IP.
This Policy document discusses various IP issues in order to safeguard the interest of the University stakeholders by adhering to the principles of academic freedom, allocate a fair share of the benefits to all those involved in the creation of IP, and encourage the drive to conduct research, protect IP, exchange of IP assets by transferring the technology and other innovations and enjoy the revenue obtained thereto. Thus, the policy laid down in this document is expected to provide an environment where scholarship and innovation, including expression of ideas, creative and artistic works, tangible results of research and developmental work, can flourish, leading to the development of intellectual property. It will also enable the University to make “quid pro quo” use of such developed intellectual property for the utilitarian benefit to the creators vis-a-vis public and the University.
The IP Policy shall sets forth transparent guidelines and benchmarks for ownership, protection and exchange of the developed Intellectual Property while, at the same time, upholds the core moral values of students, academic researchers and faculty, such as integrity, merit, academic freedom, and pursuit of excellence.
Intellectual Property Policy
1. DEFINITIONS
1.1 “The University" shall mean The IIS (Deemed to be University), Jaipur.
1.2 “Intellectual Property” shall mean any invention, discovery, know-how, process, material, manuscript, original data, artistic work, multimedia presentation, model, machine, prototype, design, computer program, database, biological or chemical compound, record, or any similar creation — collectively referred to as “IP”.
1.3 “Creator” / “Inventor” / “Researcher” shall mean the person(s) who have made substantial creative or authorship contributions to a work giving rise to intellectual property rights.
1.4 “Employee” shall mean any person employed by the University, full-time or part-time, in any capacity including faculty and staff.
1.5 “Student” shall include any person enrolled in any course offered by the University for an academic degree or certification.
1.6 “Sponsor” shall mean any external party, entity, or agency with which the University has an agreement for services or other compensation.
1.7 “UIPC” – University Intellectual Property Committee.
1.8 “IPMC” – Intellectual Property Management Cell.
2. SCOPE OF THE POLICY
The policy covers all university personnel including faculty, staff, visiting faculty, researchers, and scientists. It shall form part of the employment conditions for employees and the enrollment conditions for students. All creators participating in sponsored research projects or using University-supported resources shall adhere to this policy, unless an exception is approved in writing by the University.
All creators/inventors/researchers must execute documents necessary to establish ownership and rights as outlined herein. This policy may be amended from time to time to align with the best interests of the University.
Applicable Acts and Laws:
- The Patents Act, 1970 (as amended by The Patents (Amendment) Act, 2005)
- The Trade Marks Act, 1999
- The Copyright Act, 1957
- The Design Act, 2000
- The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999
- The Semiconductor Integrated Circuits Layout-Design Act, 2000
- The Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Act, 2001
- The Biological Diversity Act, 2002
3. OBJECTIVE OF THE POLICY
The objective of this policy is to foster an enabling environment that encourages recognition and valuation of research, creativity, and innovation among faculty, scholars, and researchers. It aims to facilitate translation of such outcomes into products, processes, and technologies beneficial to industry, commerce, and society at large.
The policy outlines ownership, protection, and commercialization of intellectual property created by University employees and ensures effective IP management throughout its lifecycle.
Key Objectives:
- To promote awareness about intellectual property and its importance among faculty, researchers, and students.
- To encourage creativity and innovation by recognizing and rewarding creators, inventors, and researchers.
- To provide an innovation-friendly environment and the necessary resources for capacity building.
- To safeguard the interests of innovators by filing appropriate applications with relevant IP authorities.
- To enable commercialization of IP, generate revenue, and share benefits fairly among stakeholders.
- To ensure transparent administration for IP ownership, control, and revenue sharing.
- To maintain compliance with applicable IP laws and regulations.
- To enhance the University’s reputation as a premier academic and research institution.
4. APPLICATION OF IP POLICY:
The prime objective of the policy is to promote innovation culture among University employees/students and commercialization of IP from the University to industry while generating income to support further research and education. As a condition of their employment, enrolment or participation in University programmes or their use of funds, space, staff or facilities, all employees of the University, whether appointed full or part-time, and all faculty shall be bound by this Policy, unless stated otherwise in a written agreement between such person and the University. Faculty shall be included with in the term “Employee”. This Policy shall apply to all students of the University.
4.1 Ownership
Determining the ownership of IP depends on several factors and individual circumstances, including how research is conducted within the University. Projects may involve multiple contributors or external sponsors, making ownership and assignment rights essential to define clearly.
When University resources are used significantly, all IP shall be owned by the University. If terms of ownership are not clarified prior to creation, any intellectual property—created singly or jointly, with or without University contribution—shall belong to the University.
Ownership Guidelines:
- If an employee or student creates IP during their normal duties, the rights will be owned by the University.
- For IP created through sponsored research, ownership will be determined by the sponsorship agreement.
- Persons with honorary association with the University must transfer IP created during their stay, though they will share revenue as University employees.
- Any dispute regarding ownership shall be referred to the designated committee, whose decision will be final and binding on all parties.
4.2 Responsibilities
4.2.1 University
- Educate employees and students regarding Intellectual Property (IP).
- Provide legal and financial support to protect University-owned IP.
- Safeguard University and creator interests against unauthorized use.
- Share royalties and income derived from University IP with creators.
- Promote and commercialize University-owned IP.
- Maintain IP throughout its lifecycle at the University’s cost.
- Resolve disputes among the University, creators, and sponsors.
4.2.2 Creator / Inventor / Researcher
The creator shall disclose all inventions and related works belonging to the University promptly and maintain detailed research records such as notebooks and digital logs. All such materials must be provided to the University on demand.
The creator must assign IP rights to the University, cooperate in technology transfer, assist in legal proceedings, and disclose all potential conflicts of interest to the UIPC.
5. IP ADMINISTRATION & PROTECTION
5.1 Administration
The policy shall be administered by a University Intellectual Property Committee (UIPC), consisting of eight members appointed by the Chancellor/President of the University.
Composition of UIPC:
- The Vice Chancellor (Chairman)
- Three Faculty Members
- Registrar
- Finance Officer
- Law Officer
- One external expert in IPR and technology commercialization
Functions of UIPC:
- Periodically review the IP Policy and submit an annual report to the Chancellor/President.
- Encourage development and commercialization of University IP.
- Resolve disputes or appeals between creators and University authorities.
- Form an Intellectual Property Management Cell (IPMC) to manage operational aspects.
5.2 Intellectual Property Disclosure
When creators believe they have generated commercializable IP using University resources, they must promptly submit a detailed disclosure form with supporting data and documentation.
Disclosure Forms:
- IDF – Invention Disclosure Format
- CAR – Copyright Application Request
- DAR – Design Application Request
- TAR – Trademark Application Request
The disclosure must include all creators, relevant manuscripts, sketches, and data necessary for evaluation. After submission, the creator must maintain confidentiality until authorized in writing by the University.
5.3 Evaluation of IP
The University’s IP Cell will evaluate each disclosure to determine protection type, commercial potential, and compliance with relevant contractual obligations. Discussions with creators may be held to assess protection strategy and feasibility.
5.4 Confidentiality Agreement
Creators and University personnel must maintain strict confidentiality regarding all IP information. Disclosure to third parties shall occur only after signing confidentiality or secrecy agreements.
Confidentiality Guidelines:
- Limit information disclosure before formal confidentiality agreements are signed.
- Third parties must demonstrate commercialization capability and sign official secrecy agreements.
- Access to confidential materials shall be restricted to authorized personnel only.
- Creators must avoid revealing confidential IP in publications, speeches, or external communication.
5.5 Record Keeping Procedure
Department Heads or authorized personnel shall determine the classification of resources used in IP creation and maintain detailed records throughout the IP development process.
Record Maintenance Guidelines:
- Maintain bound laboratory records titled "PRIVATE & CONFIDENTIAL" with numbered pages.
- Authenticate each entry with initials and dates; avoid abbreviations without explanations.
- Highlight ideas separately from executed work for clarity.
- Preserve samples, data, and photographs with signatures and dates.
- Electronic records must be stored in protected, read-only format to prevent tampering.
6. IP EXPLOITATION & COMMERCIALISATION
Commercialisation of developed IP is a principal objective of the University. The University aims to transfer IP effectively and efficiently in accordance with this Policy, with efforts intended to benefit the University, the creator/inventor/researcher, and society at large. The IPMC will work closely with creators to pursue commercialization via licensing or other suitable mechanisms. Royalties received from such arrangements shall be distributed in accordance with this Policy.
6.1 Licensing
The University may license University-owned intellectual property to third parties by granting exclusive or non-exclusive licenses at its discretion. The creator shall prepare a non-technical summary of the IP for prospective licensees, make presentations as required, and participate in licensing negotiations.
Licensing agreements, especially where a third party is also the creator, will be carefully reviewed to avoid conflicts of interest. The University may retain, under special circumstances, a non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use the IP for teaching and future research. Assignments or licenses may include additional terms such as revenue sharing or reimbursement of statutory protection costs when justified.
6.2 First-refusal Option for Sponsors
Unless otherwise decided, agreements for sponsored research shall provide that IP developed from sponsored research belongs to the University. On disclosure of such IP, the sponsor (or the relevant Department) will be offered a first-refusal option to license the IP on negotiated terms.
The sponsor must accept or decline the first-refusal option within 30 days of the offer. Confidentiality agreements will remain in force during this period. The University may, at its discretion, grant specific rights to sponsors if doing so is likely to facilitate commercialization.
Considerations for Negotiation
- The nature and application of the intellectual property.
- The relative contributions of the University and the sponsor to resources for its creation.
- If the sponsor declines the option, the University will commercialize the IP as it deems fit.
- The University’s view on the best commercialization pathway will be taken into account.
6.3 Distribution of the Proceeds
Proceeds from commercialization shall be shared with creators in percentages that vary by IP type. Gross income from a University-owned IP will be reduced by direct commercialization expenses to arrive at net income, which will be calculated annually. Revenue-sharing guidelines will be set out in the assignment deed or license agreement.
Any royalty or payment received from commercialization will be distributed according to the assignment deed between the University and the creator. If a third party (e.g., funding agency) is involved, the University and creator shares will be calculated on net receipts after deducting the third party’s share.
The creator’s share will continue to be paid for the duration of the license regardless of whether the creator remains employed by the University.
7. MISCELLANEOUS
7.1 Right to Regulate Policy
The UIPC is responsible for interpreting policy provisions, resolving interpretation disputes, and recommending amendments based on implementation experience. Proposed changes to this Policy must be ratified by the Board of Management / Director.
7.2 Secrecy and Confidentiality
The Policy contains explicit provisions for maintaining secrecy and confidentiality—particularly in relation to ongoing R&D, laboratory notebooks, theses, dissertations, conference presentations, publications, and contracts with third parties. These provisions aim to protect research integrity and the value of University-owned IP.
7.3 Provisions for Penalty on Violation
If work is published or disclosed without proper authorization before filing for IP protection, the innovators (including students, researchers, creators, or inventors) may be responsible for costs related to statutory protection and documentation and may face disciplinary action by the relevant University department.
Where an IP disclosure is found not to be genuine or is contested by other right-holders, the claimant may bear the costs of attempts to protect the IP and may face disciplinary measures—except where genuine independent research in the same field is demonstrated.
7.4 Dispute Resolution
Disputes that cannot be resolved by the UIPC shall be referred to an Arbitration Tribunal at the request of either the University, the creator/inventor/researcher, or the sponsor/funding agency. The Tribunal’s decision shall be final and binding on all parties for issues related to IP, revenue sharing, or policy interpretation.
The Tribunal shall consist of one member appointed by the Vice-Chancellor, one member nominated by the opposite party, and an independent expert in the relevant field.
7.5 Jurisdiction
All agreements signed by the University shall be subject to the jurisdiction of the courts in Jaipur and governed by the laws of India.
7.6 Amendments
The University reserves the right to amend this Policy at any time as required.
7.7 Waivers
The University may grant waivers from provisions of this Policy on a case-by-case basis. All waivers must be documented in writing, supported by reasons, and signed by the Vice-Chancellor. Decisions to grant waivers will consider the best interest of the University and the facts of the specific case.
Every waiver and the reasons for it shall be reported to the Executive Council / Board of Management in the next meeting.
Events
Workshops and Seminars organized by IIS (Deemed to be University) on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR)
| Year | Name of the Workshop / Seminar | Date(s) | Activity Report |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Awareness on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) | 22.10.2020 | Report |
| 2020 | ‘IPR as a Strategic Tool for Startups’ | 08.09.2020 | Report |
| 2020 | Patent Workshop | 02.03.2020 | Report |
| 2020 | Workshop on ‘Creating Awareness on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) & IP Management’ | 11.02.2020 | Report |
| 2019 | Workshop cum Training Programme on Intellectual Property Rights | 20.08.2019 | Report |
| 2017 | Seminar on Intellectual Property Rights | 17.07.2017 | Report |
| 2016 | Seminar on PPVFRA | 10.03.2016 | Report |
| 2015 | Seminar Series on ‘How your research or other expression of ideas can be legally protected?’ | 11.08.2015 - 14.08.2015 | Report |
| 2015 | Seminar series on Awareness on IPR | 22.07.2015 - 30.07.2015 | Report |
Intellectual Property Rights Cell (IPRC)
Promoting innovation, protection, and awareness of Intellectual Property Rights at IIS (Deemed to be University).
Introduction
IIS (Deemed to be University) established the Intellectual Property Rights Cell (IPRC) in 2014 to nurture and protect the growing wealth of knowledge and innovation within the university. The IPRC supports IP education, management, and awareness initiatives across the campus.
The Cell facilitates IPR-related services including prior-art searches, patentability opinions, drafting and filing patent specifications, responding to office actions, and offering advisory services in various IPR domains. It also reviews University IP policies, conducts capacity-building workshops, and organizes conferences on Intellectual Property.
As the Cell matures, it aims to serve as a think tank on IPR policy issues with a special focus on matters relevant to the local region.
Objectives
The primary objective of the IPR Cell is to integrate Intellectual Property Rights into the education process, cultivating a culture of respect for innovation and intellectual assets.
- Enhance the quality of research and innovation through IPR awareness.
- Ensure identification and protection of innovations arising from University research.
- Facilitate knowledge and technology transfer between academia and industry.
- Assist grass-root innovators in realizing commercial benefits from their creations.
Services
- Assisting departments in developing IPR-related curriculum and COSD programs.
- Conducting IPR outreach and awareness activities.
- Celebrating World IP Day (26th April).
- Counseling on career opportunities in IPR.
- Guidance for Patent & Trademark Agent Examinations and TIFAC schemes.
- Providing latest publications and patents for R&D assistance.
- Providing prior-art search reports and patentability opinions.
- Drafting patent specifications and preparing filing documents.
- Filing and following up IPR applications.
- Coordinating with experts, agents, and advocates for IPR-related needs.
- Facilitating IP watch, oppositions, and litigation support.
Contact Us
Address: IIS (Deemed to be University), Gurukul Marg, SFS, Mansarovar, Jaipur 302 020
Tel. No.: +91-141-2400160, 2397906, 2397907