As noted in the recently published Sainsbury Report, the ability of universities and higher education institutions to support the application of new knowledge depends increasingly on the effective management of intellectual property. The same considerations can apply also to schools, where intellectual property is increasingly being generated through the use of information technology.

In response to this challenge, which is endorsed by both the Government and the Patent Office, Morgan Cole has developed a service specifically aimed at educational institutions concerned with the management of intellectual property.  We work with the institution concerned to put in place appropriate intellectual property management, disclosure and incentive structures, advice on preferred exploitation strategies and a detailed IP policy. We also prepare training materials for staff and students, deliver training seminars, and assist chosen personnel to ensure the ongoing education of students and staff in all relevant aspects of IP management.

Other specific intellectual property issues which can arise in an educational environment include an establishment's possible exemption from copyright legislation in relation to copying copyright material for teaching purposes.  We can advise on all such issues arising from the Copyrights, Designs and Patents Act 1988.