Mywish Maredia, Frederic Erbisch, Anwar Naseem, Amie Hightower, James Oehmke, Dave Weatherspoon, and Christopher Wolf
Michigan State University

This paper discusses the significance of intellectual property (IP) protection by public research institutes. It argues that such protection can be compatible with the mission of public organizations, especially in cases where private firms will underinvest due to thin markets, high development costs or technological complexity. The paper outlines the main reasons for obtaining IP protection by way of examples from the Michigan State University experience.

Key words: Intellectual property rights; biotechnology; Michigan State University; research and development; technology transfer.