September 21, 2015
SIU joins national inventors academy
The university is now a member of the National Academy of Inventors, a group that serves as the academic arm of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The organization advocates for universities and research institutions, helping ensure their interests in dealing with the USPTO.
“Our NAI membership will help to ensure that SIU’s values and interests are represented as the landscape of intellectual property continues to evolve in this country,” Michelle Chitambar, technical paraprofessional in the Office of Sponsored Projects Administration at SIU, said.
The NAI recognizes and encourages inventors who have a patent issued from the USPTO and enhances the visibility of university and non-profit research institute technology and academic innovation. It also encourages the disclosure of intellectual property, educates and mentors innovative students, and supports moving new inventions into the marketplace to benefit the public.
The NAI also edits the international journal “Technology and Innovation – Proceedings of the National Academy of Inventors.” NAI membership only is available through university and non-profit research institute chapters.
SIU’s membership in NAI will provide a unique way to recognize faculty inventors by supporting their innovation efforts with individual membership in the organization.
“This will provide opportunities to network with others in the national innovation community,” she said. “We are currently in the process of selecting the first cohort of NAI members from SIU and expect to notify the inductees soon.”
To be selected as member of the first SIU cohort, faculty inventors must be named as an inventor on at least one USPTO patent and currently be an inventor or entrepreneur. They also must participate in the SIU innovation community.
Joining the NAI will provide SIU with more resources to nurture and grow its inventor community, Chitambar said.