Technology transfer is a dynamic process that leverages research findings and foster innovation. By engaging in partnerships with industry, launching spin-offs, and through licensing patents, know-how, and software, research has the potential to yield innovative products, processes, and services.

For scientists, technology transfer brings significant benefits. It enables them to witness their research making a real-world impact, translating discoveries into practical applications. Collaborations with industry partners provide valuable insights and networking opportunities, enhancing the research's relevance. Moreover, technology transfer generates additional funding, empowering scientists to explore new avenues and advance their scientific endeavors. Overall, technology transfer bridges the gap between research and application, driving progress and improving lives.

Knowledge transfer encompasses a wide range of activities aimed at providing socially relevant target groups with scientifically grounded knowledge. Through various means, such as advisory and information services, training opportunities, internet portals, citizens' dialogues, and regulatory sandboxes, the objective is to empower individuals to make well-informed decisions in specific situations.

To achieve successful knowledge transfer, it is crucial to translate scientifically grounded knowledge into the context of the target groups and communicate it in a language they can easily comprehend. This constant communication fosters a strong connection with the target groups and helps integrate socially relevant issues into research endeavors. Ultimately, "knowledge transfer" bridges the gap between research and the broader society, enabling research findings to positively impact people's lives and contribute to the betterment of society as a whole.

Innovation Management at the Jülich Research Center provides comprehensive support to employees in all matters related to the exploitation of research results, enabling Jülich's research to be utilized beyond the realm of academia. Serving as a bridge between science and industry, Innovation Management acts as a point of contact for businesses and industries, facilitating the mutual exchange of knowledge, experiences, ideas, and technologies.

As the transfer hub of FZ Jülich, Innovation Management collaborates closely with scientists to identify and further develop ideas or plans for implementing inventions and technologies, such as through spin-offs or licensing of intellectual property, know-how, or software.

Furthermore, Innovation Management assists companies and societal groups that seek to benefit from the latest insights and knowledge from FZ Jülich. It coordinates overarching processes within FZ Jülich and actively supports their transfer projects.

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Intellectual property (IP) refers to the rightful ownership of intangible assets. Within this framework, the term "intellectual property" encompasses a range of rights that safeguard intellectual creations. Research discoveries are regarded as intellectual property, while IP encompasses inventions and patents, along with software (copyright), and expertise in a particular field (know-how).

Intellectual Property at FZ Jülich: secure your research findings

Know-how refers to the specialized knowledge that is acquired through practical or technical experience related to processes, technologies, and procedures.

By engaging in knowledge and technology transfer, you can effectively disseminate your research findings to benefit both society and industry.

This can be accomplished through various avenues such as collaborations, licensing agreements, and the development or translation of your discoveries into tangible outcomes like products, services, or processes. Additionally, spin-off initiatives can be pursued to maximize the impact of your research.

Utilizing knowledge transfer strategies allows you to extend the influence of your research on society through educational events, citizen science projects, and school laboratories, among other avenues.

Intellectual Property at FZ Jülich: secure your research findings
Collaborating with industry
Transfer knowledge into society

An invention is a creative achievement based on inventive activities that can be applied through new solutions and applications in the field of technology. An invention can be patented if it is novel, inventive in nature, and can be applied in a commercial context.

It is essential to promptly report your invention to your employer once it is completed. Please reach out to the Patents (R-P) team. They will guide you through completing and submitting an invention disclosure form.

Report an invention 🔒 Access to the FZ Jülich intranet

It is generally advisable to maintain strict confidentiality regarding your invention, both internally and externally, to safeguard potential patent opportunities. However, there are exceptions for your co-inventors and the Patents (R-P) team, who can be trusted with the information.

It's crucial to note that no details about your invention should be published prior to filing a patent application. This includes scientific publications, presentations, written documents, or any other form of public disclosure. If information about your invention has already been published, it may no longer be eligible for patent protection.

If you wish to explore the possibilities of your patented invention and learn how to create additional value through licensing agreements or a spin-off, we recommend seeking advice from the Innovation Management. They will be happy to provide you with valuable insights and guidance.

Transfer for scientists: turning innovative ideas into reality at Forschungszentrum Jülich
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Once you have submitted your patent application, the Innovation Management at FZ Jülich can assist you in effectively utilizing your invention. We offer various avenues such as collaborations, licensing agreements, and spin-offs to transform your research findings into tangible products, services, or processes, thereby maximizing the potential of your invention.

To determine the best course of action and explore how we can support you, we highly recommend engaging with our team. This will provide you with the most efficient guidance.

Transfer for scientists: turning innovative ideas into reality at Forschungszentrum Jülich
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A license grants the licensee the use of an industrial property, know-how, or software. A company or a research institution can, for example, use a patent of Forschungszentrum Jülich as a licensee. A license can be tailored to individual requirements in terms of duration, scope, area of application, etc.

In a licence agreement, the owner of an industrial property right, know-how or software grants the licensee the exclusive or partial right to use the intellectual property in question.

The licensor retains ownership of the licensed subject matter throughout the agreement. The licensing agreement encompasses important aspects such as licensing fees, the responsibilities and guarantees of the licensor, and any limitations regarding geographical scope, content, or duration.

If you are interested in licensing agreements, we recommend getting in touch with our dedicated innovation managers who specialize in this area. They will provide you with the necessary guidance and support.

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At Forschungszentrum Jülich, inventors, or partners involved in a joint invention, are rewarded with a prize of € 550 when a patent is granted in recognition of their contributions.

If the intellectual property (IP) is successfully licensed and Forschungszentrum Jülich receives revenues from the licensing, both the inventor and the creator of licensed know-how are entitled to inventor remuneration.

Additionally, the respective institute receives a share of the returns, providing further funding opportunities to support your research endeavors.

Licensable know-how must meet the following criteria: it should be applicable, essential to the underlying technology, kept confidential, and adequately documented. The Patents (R-P) team thoroughly assesses whether these criteria have been satisfied. For inquiries related to licensable know-how, we recommend reaching out to the Innovation Management.

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The negotiation of licensing agreements is conducted by the Innovation Management and the respective head of institute.

Yes, you have the option to license your developed software to third parties. This can be achieved through traditional licensing agreements with proprietary terms or by utilizing open-source licensing models.

Since software is protected by copyright, the programmers usually hold the "individual" copyright, which allows them to be credited as creators, while the right of use is typically held by the employer.

At the Innovation Management, we collaborate with the respective institute to negotiate proprietary software licensing agreements. Moreover, our team offers valuable insights on different licensing models and how to publish software as open-source. To explore your options and receive expert guidance, feel free to contact our innovation management team for an advisory session.

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Selecting the appropriate license for your software depends on various factors. It involves tailoring a license that aligns with the interests of the institute, any requirements from collaboration partners or funding bodies, and the framework of the developed software, including integrated libraries or existing code.

Carefully consider your objectives, whether you want to encourage community-driven development, explore commercial opportunities, or ensure wide accessibility of the code.

For personalized guidance and consultation in choosing the right license, we recommend reaching out to our innovation management team for an advisory session. They will help you navigate the licensing options and ensure the best approach for your software's success.

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Forschungszentrum Jülich actively encourages the publication of software as open-source on platforms like GitLab or GitHub [A2].

However, determining whether to license the software on a proprietary basis to specific partners or share it as open-source requires careful consideration of several factors.

To make an informed decision, consider aspects such as whether it benefits the institute to have the software developed within a collaborative community, its potential for commercial applications, or the goal of achieving widespread distribution of the code.

A spin-off company is a legally binding establishment of a company

The founding of a new, market- and profit-oriented company by current or former employees of Forschungszentrum Jülich is considered a spin-off. This can be based either on scientifically or technically developed intellectual property (IP) originating from Forschungszentrum Jülich (referred to as a 'Spin-Off') or solely on the expertise acquired by the founders during their time at Forschungszentrum Jülich (referred to as a 'Competence Spin-Off')."

Launch a spin-off: Entrepreneurship at FZ Jülich
Discover our most recent spin-offs

A spin-off is a thrilling venture that involves transferring your innovative ideas into action. From the very beginning, our Innovation Management at Forschungszentrum Jülich is here to assist you throughout the journey. They provide support and guidance, helping you validate your ideas, apply for funding opportunities, and arrange tailored training programs and events.

To kickstart your spin-off idea and evaluate the next steps, we encourage you to reach out to the Innovation Management. They are eager to discuss your vision and collaborate on your endeavour.

Launch a spin-off: Entrepreneurship at FZ Jülich
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Currently, we are expanding our array of workshops, training programs, and events to empower you in this process. Our Innovation Management is ready to offer insights and recommendations for events and training courses hosted at Forschungszentrum Jülich or in collaboration with our partners.

Additionally, they can guide you to courses offered by the Helmholtz Association and other external providers. Our goal is to equip you with the necessary tools and resources to bring your transfer idea to fruition successfully. Do not hesitate to connect with our innovation managers and explore the opportunities awaiting you.

Launch a spin-off: Entrepreneurship at FZ Jülich
Learn innovation and entrepreneurship: Jülich Innovation & Entrepreneurship Certificate Program (JUICE)

Find a curated selection of funding programs for any kind of transfer and innovation project in our project funding information.

The External Funding Management (D) at Forschungszentrum Jülich offers a broad selection of funding programs on the intranet, making it easier for you to discover your opportunities. You can utilize their External Funding Portal's search function to find specific funding options that align with your goals. Access the External Funding Portal on the FZJ intranet.

If you have any inquiries regarding funding opportunities or intend to apply for funding, do not hesitate to reach out to our Innovation Management. They are eager to offer expert advice and support throughout the funding application process.

Whether you need guidance on eligibility criteria, application procedures, or any other aspect, the Innovation Management will help you to navigate the funding landscape.

Explore funding opportunities for innovation and transfer
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At Forschungszentrum Jülich, our scientists receive support from our Innovation Management team to streamline the process of acquiring third-party funding for their transfer projects.

Even before the formal application phase, scientists have the opportunity to engage with Innovation Management. Whether you need assistance in crafting and refining your proposal or seeking guidance for project pitches, we aim to provide comprehensive support, ensuring that your transfer project stands the best chance of securing the necessary funding.

Engage with the Innovation Management

Forschungszentrum Jülich provides essential support through its Innovation Fund, which is tailored to meet the diverse needs and phases of any innovative and transfer-oriented project. By offering this dedicated funding mechanism, we ensure that processes remain streamlined and efficient, granting our scientists more time to focus on their research.

Further information about specific funding instruments, eligibility criteria, and the application process for the Innovation Fund is available to FZ Jülich employees on the intranet.

Explore funding opportunities for innovation and transfer

Knowledge transfer plays a pivotal role in harnessing research findings for the betterment of society. It serves as a two-way process, where target groups from various sectors enrich research endeavors with new perspectives, helping to shape their scientific direction.

Through knowledge transfer, citizens within these target groups gain access to valuable scientific evidence, empowering them to make informed decisions. This exchange of knowledge facilitates a mutually beneficial relationship, where research benefits society, and society, in turn, contributes to the advancement of research.

The target groups of knowledge transfer encompass a wide range of stakeholders from society, politics, industry, and the media. These groups include committees, associations, students, and decision-makers in politics and industry. Forschungszentrum Jülich plays a crucial role as a mediator, actively bridging the gap between research and these diverse target groups.

To facilitate effective knowledge transfer, we prepares the required information in a clear and understandable manner, ensuring that scientific insights are accessible to all. An ongoing and intensive exchange takes place with the respective target groups, promoting a dialogue-based approach. This engagement can lead to collaborative research projects, where society actively contributes to generating new knowledge, for instance, through citizen science projects.

By fostering an inclusive and interactive knowledge transfer process, Forschungszentrum Jülich embraces the collective wisdom of stakeholders, ultimately creating a positive impact and enhancing the relevance and applicability of research outcomes in addressing societal challenges and opportunities.

Jülich's knowledge transfer unit is eager to assist you with valuable information on the latest funding opportunities and guide you through the entire process of initiating, documenting, and evaluating your transfer projects. We offer comprehensive support, including assistance with the application process for project funding and in public relations work.