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Protecting research from idea to grant.

From invention disclosure to granted patent, TCCI manages the full IP lifecycle for researchers and industry partners — protecting what your teams create and preparing it for commercialization.

Start a Disclosure
Track record managing filings across TCCI's research portfolio
Full coverage across patents, trademarks, copyrights & trade secrets
Streamlined path from disclosure through to grant
A dedicated case officer for every disclosure

Coverage Areas

Categories We Manage

Every disclosure is routed to the right protection strategy based on the nature of the work.

Patents

Novel inventions, processes, and technical methods arising from funded or independent research.

Trademarks

Brand names, logos, and marks tied to spinouts, products, or institutional programs.

Copyrights

Software, datasets, courseware, and published works requiring formal ownership records.

Trade Secrets

Proprietary methods and know-how best protected through confidentiality rather than disclosure.

The Process

Disclosure to Grant

Intake

Invention Disclosure

Researchers submit a disclosure form describing the innovation, its novelty, and any prior public exposure.

Assessment

Prior Art & Patentability Review

The IP team runs a prior-art search and assesses commercial and technical patentability before proceeding.

Strategy

Filing Strategy

A filing route is chosen — provisional, complete, or PCT — based on funding, timelines, and target markets.

Prosecution

Prosecution & Examination

TCCI coordinates with patent attorneys to respond to office actions and move the application through examination.

Handoff

Grant & Commercialization Handoff

Once granted, the IP is handed to the commercialization team for licensing or spinout evaluation.

Common Questions

IP Management FAQ

Who owns IP created using institutional resources?
Ownership generally follows the institution's IP policy and any funding agreements in place; TCCI helps clarify ownership early in the disclosure process.
How long does a patent filing take?
Timelines vary by jurisdiction and technology area, but disclosures typically move from filing to grant within 18–24 months.
Can students file disclosures independently?
Yes — students can submit disclosures directly, though co-inventor and supervisor details are required as part of the review.
Does TCCI cover filing costs?
Cost-sharing depends on the funding source and commercialization potential; this is discussed during the patentability review stage.