Intellectual property
We understand intellectual property (IP) is important to your organisation. It’s important to note that, unless otherwise agreed between your organisation and the student/s, any IP created by the student/s during a placement will usually remain the property of the student.
If required, it is your responsibility to enter into a separate agreement with the student regarding IP rights ownership. This may involve having the student sign relevant documentation to transfer IP, typically in the form of a Deed Poll.
Relevant considerations might include:
- Has the IP been created using your resources?
- Was the student part of a team whose combined work created the IP?
- Was the student building on work that had already commenced by your organisation (i.e., ‘background’ IP) as part of the project?
- Are there any proprietary or privacy concerns around the IP?
- Is the IP created valuable? How likely is it that the IP will generate commercial return?
- Did university staff also support the creation of the IP?
- If students require reuse of created materials in a work portfolio or similar, are you willing to grant them permissions to do so?
Intellectual Property Guidance for Industry and Host Supervisors (PDF, 117KB)
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.