Intellectual property (IP) refers to intangible creations of the human mind and includes inventions, literary and artistic works, designs, and names and symbols used in commerce. Like other forms of property, it can be purchased, sold, borrowed, lent, misused, and even stolen. Fortunately, it can also be protected by means of patents, trademarks and copyright.

Most clinical research is concerned with evaluating and validating existing IP or creating entirely new IP. This may include innovations in translational medicine, new drug discoveries, medical devices, computer software and diagnostic tools including AI.

Before applying for research funding, it is essential to consider the provenance of existing IP that will be used in a study and any permissions that may be required. This may also affect the terms of ownership of any improvements or modifications to that IP and it is crucial that these are agreed in advance, both between the parties collaborating in the research and with the funding body.

Professional advice should always be sought from a technology transfer office or an IP specialist such as a patent attorney.