Inventions are new solutions to technical problems and societal challenges, distinct from discoveries like findings in X-ray images or new species. Inventions made by University of Vienna staff are considered employee inventions under Austrian patent law. The University may capitalize on these inventions, ideally collaborating closely with the inventors for successful commercialization.

What happens when there is an invention?

• contact the technology transfer office for professional guidance and further steps
• employees of the University of Vienna must report inventions to the Technology Transfer Office immediately using the invention disclosure form
• the university has a three-month period to evaluate/claim the invention and whether to proceed with a patent application
• until a patent application is potentially filed, the invention must not be disclosed publicly (including in lectures and publications)

Students, even without an employment contract, are also invited to transfer their share of the invention to the University and benefit from the support services of Technology Transfer Office.