IP: Navigating the Divide

Academic and noncommercial basic research has always been an engine for innovation, particularly in the areas of medicine and drugs. The extent to which patents may touch noncommercial research is critically important, whether to spur innovation by offering a reward, or to limit the use of patented technology for basic research under the threat of infringement suits. At the same time, distinctions between noncommercial basic research and commercial development are not so clear. Perhaps surprisingly, applied commercial drug and medical device research has more protection from patent infringement litigation than noncommercial research does. The U.S. Supreme Court is set to touch on the question of the patentability of research-based advancements with its upcoming review of the Myriad decision. For now, patent owners and researchers should look to previous lower court decision and emerging technology transfer best practices for guidance.