OFFICE FOR RESEARCH AND SPONSORED PROGRAMS
At Hofstra University, technology transfer connects academic research and practical application. By facilitating the protection and commercialization of intellectual property, we ensure that innovations developed by our faculty, staff, and students contribute meaningfully to society.
The university’s official policy on patents and inventions is published as Faculty Policy Series #34. The policy on copyrighted materials is published as Faculty Policy Series #37. The Office for Research and Sponsored Programs assists the university community with intellectual property protection and technology transfer. We are also available to speak with representatives from industry interested in university expertise, technologies, or inventions.
Protecting Your Intellectual Property
Our Office for Research and Sponsored Programs provides comprehensive support to safeguard your intellectual property:
- Patents: Secure legal rights for your inventions.
- Copyrights: Protect original works of authorship.
- Licensing Agreements: Authorize third parties to use your intellectual property.
- Material Transfer Agreements: Manage the transfer of research materials.
- Nondisclosure Agreements: Ensure confidentiality during collaborations.
- University-Industry Research Agreements: Foster partnerships that drive innovation.
Faculty, staff, and students are reminded that laws governing the protection of intellectual property are time-sensitive and can be unforgiving. Please contact this office as early as possible if you anticipate filing a patent application. Contact with our office should be made prior to any publication, public presentation, or other disclosure of your work. When warranted, our office can assist with confidentiality agreements that permit limited disclosure of proprietary information to appropriate parties, such as potential collaborators, sponsors, or business interests.

Intellectual Property Resources
For your convenience, additional information on patents and other forms of intellectual property protection (e.g., copyright) can be found at the following locations:

Conducting a Patent Search
Before filing a patent application, it’s essential to perform a thorough search for existing patents. Our office can assist you in navigating these resources to determine the novelty of your invention.
Search the Patent DatabaseContact Us
For assistance with technology transfer and intellectual property matters, please reach out to: