Intellectual property

Intellectual property (IP) is intangible property that is the result of creativity and innovation and which can be owned in a similar way to physical property. Examples of intellectual property rights (IPRs) include copyright, patents, and trademarks.

In the University context, IP can be viewed as the results and outcomes of research. As with other property, there may be commercial value in IP, which may be realised via various routes including licensing or selling intellectual property rights. Oxford University Innovation, the University’s technology transfer company, are responsible for assisting Oxford University researchers to protect and commercialise their IP.