The course offers a clear introduction to how to protect and at the same time effectively use research results. Participants will become familiar with the principles of intellectual property in the academic environment – from copyright to patents, designs, and trademarks – and will understand their practical significance. The course also introduces the main steps and tools of technology transfer: how to assess the potential of outputs, prepare them for practice, set contractual and financial frameworks, or lay the groundwork for creating a spin-off. The program also includes topics related to digitalization, AI, and ethical dilemmas concerning protection versus open sharing. The course draws on current experience and practice in the academic environment.
Entry requirements for the course
To enroll in the course, participants should have the following knowledge and skills:
• Basic knowledge of R&D and understanding of the scientific process
• General technical knowledge – understanding of basic technologies relevant to
the field and the ability to apply scientific findings in practice
• Basic awareness of concepts such as technology transfer, intellectual property,
patenting, and entrepreneurship
• Creative and innovative thinking – openness to new ideas and approaches
• Ability to analyze and solve complex problems
• Communication skills
• Teamwork – the ability to work in a team and collaborate with colleagues from
different fields within transfer-related cooperation
• Motivation and determination to learn new things and the commitment to
overcome challenges

Requirements for the course completion
To successfully complete the course, participants must:
• Prepare their own literature review on a chosen topic
• Develop a presentation for a potential investor/commercial partner focusing on
the PhD student’s research and development activities


Applications: http://czv.vsb.cz/kurzy

1. Why Address Intellectual Property in Research
Introduction to the legal framework for protecting research outputs. The
importance of intellectual property for individuals, teams, and institutions.
2. What to Protect and How
Types of legal protection: patents, industrial designs, trademarks. When it
makes sense to seek protection and what the basic process looks like.
3. Copyright in Science
How copyright applies to scientific and development outputs. The difference
between individual and employee works, and specifics of the academic
environment.
4. New Challenges: AI, Digitalization, and Openness
How technology and open science are changing approaches to protecting
results. Where ethical questions begin and where standard practice ends.
5. Bringing Research Results into Practice
Basic overview of the technology transfer process. The role of the university, the
researcher, and partners – who does what and why.
6. Recognizing Potential and Staying on Track
How to identify outputs with social or commercial impact. Basics of assessing
technology, the team, and context.
7. Contracts that Make Sense
Licensing and cooperation agreements – what they must contain and why they
are key. Who is responsible for what.
8. Financial Support and a Sustainable Model
Funding options for development and commercialization. How to think about a
business model before a company exists.
9. From Research to Spin-off
What starting your own company entails. First steps, team building, division of
roles, and basic orientation in the business environment.
10. Lessons from the Field
Case studies of successful technology transfer from the academic environment
– both from VŠB-TUO and beyond.