PHYS 6735 - Intellectual Property Law for Scientists and Engineers

introduction to the US law of intellectual property (IP), with focus on main instruments of IP protection: patents, trademarks, and copyright. After completion of this course, students will be able to understandthe objectives of the system of IP protection and how this system emerges from the tension between providing sufficient incentives to creative thinkers/artists/inventors and limiting the freedom of expression too much. The course explains what can and cannot be protected, how protections can be obtained and asserted, how one can practice one’s creative endeavors while maximizing benefits provided by the system of IP law and being cognizant of the rights of other marketplace participants. The course also touches on modern emerging issues related to information technology and biotechnology.