Since 1987, PARTEQ has worked with Queen's researchers in protecting and managing their intellectual property (IP), the raw material from which commercial products and processes are made.

What is intellectual property (IP)?
Intellectual property, simply defined, is any form of knowledge or expression created with one's intellect. It includes such things as inventions, literary, artistic, musical or visual works, computer software, trademarks, and even "know-how."

Types of IP Protection
There are six types of intellectual property protection in Canada:

• Patents – for inventions, i.e., new technology.
• Copyright – for literary, artistic, dramatic and musical works.
• Trademarks – words, symbols and/or pictures used to distinguish goods and services.
• Industrial Design Registrations – for the shape, pattern or ornamentation of industrially produced products.
• Integrated Circuit Topographies – for the three-dimensional configurations of the electronic circuits embodied in integrated circuit products or layout designs
• Plant Breeders' Rights – for new plant varieties.

There is also common law protection for trade secrets. Know-how and trade secrets can also be protected by contract law.

IP Protection at Queen's

While there are several types of intellectual property protection in Canada, at Queen's, protection of your intellectual property generally involves one of the following:

• Patents
• Copyright
• Know-how and Trade Secrets

Other types of IP Protection

PARTEQ can also refer you to external experts in the following areas, or you can check the links below for detailed information about:

• Trademarks

• Industrial Design Registration

• Integrated Circuit Topographies and

• Plant Breeders' Rights

See also the Canadian Intellectual Property Office website.

Frequently asked questions

Who owns IP developed at Queen's?

Why protect and commercialize IP?

Who pays for the costs of commercialization?

Who is an inventor?