OVPR
Intellectual Property Management and Commercialization -- Technology Transfer
A substantial amount of research is being conducted at Western Michigan University resulting in new findings, developments, and discoveries that can benefit society. The transfer of these discoveries to the commercial sector is coordinated through the Intellectual Property Management and Commercialization ("technology transfer") function. The Office of the Vice President of Research is responsible for the management and commercialization of WMU's intellectual property
Frequently asked questions
What is Intellectual Property (IP)?
What are WMU's policies regarding IP? 
What is a patent?
What is a copyright?
Benefits and rewards of inventorship and participation in IP commercialization
What does the process for IP commercialization entail?
Role of the Office of the Vice President for Research in the process?
Things for the Inventor to Remember
Contact us regarding research discoveries that may have commercial value, for securing IP rights (e.g., patents, copyrights) for such discoveries, and for IP commercialization strategies. We also provide consulting on how to work with corporations regarding IP issues and sponsored research and how to maximize research results by combining publications with IP rights.
U.S. Government Info:
Patent and Trademark Office
Federal Copyright Law
Federal Copyright Office
For intellectual property and commercialization inquiries contact:
Dr. Michael Sharer, Director
Intellectual Property Management and Commercialization
Office of the Vice President for Research
(269) 387-8218
Request for Proposals
OVPR Technology Development Fund
WMU Researchers Triple Number
of Inventions
WMU Commercialization Wins Innovation Grant and Starts Entrepreneur-in Residence Program
Technology Commercialization News at WMU:
Development of Viral Proteins to Treat Inflammatory Disorders
Development and Commercialization of a Fiber Optic Connection to Improve Communication Systems