Client Information
Publications
Proprietary work funded by industry is kept confidential at the request
of the client. In its role as a public institution, the University
typically publishes the results of its research, and faculty and
researchers are encouraged to do so. Such publication is generally
required for projects that receive any federal/state grants or funding.
However, prior to publication, the client is afforded the opportunity to
review these materials for exclusion of proprietary/confidential
Information. Publications may be delayed until suitable IP protection is
secured. Publication rights will be determined prior to the start of any
project.
Confidentiality
The University of Maine has standard agreements to safeguard
confidential and proprietary information that may be shared during
projects. These agreements are available for client review. Our
Department of Industrial Cooperation is also available to review any
related agreements proposed by our clients.
A secure, password protected site for
client use is available and is located at
ftp://ftp.umche.maine.edu
Intellectual Property (IP)
The Intellectual Property (IP) rights accruing to work performed at the
Center are negotiable based upon the respective roles of the client and
the Center in developing the associated process, product, or technology.
Following are general guidelines:
- the client owns IP rights to any
invention developed solely by the client;
- the University owns IP rights to any
invention developed solely by University personnel;
- IP rights are jointly owned by the
client and the University for any inventions developed in
collaboration;
- the sponsoring company or
institution has the first option to commercialize the IP generated as
a result of the project, including those developed solely by
University personnel on work performed for the client. (The exact
terms and conditions of any licensing are typically negotiated on a
case-by-case basis.)
