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Importance of Signatures During the Patent Process

Northwestern innovators frequently work with INVO to obtain patent protection and commercialize their discoveries.  One critical part of this process is the gathering of inventor signatures on important legal documentation.  This deadline-driven documentation frequently requires handwritten signatures and original copies returned to INVO.  Failure to timely provide certain legal documentation may result in permanent loss of rights.  Promptly returning requested documents with legally-effective signatures will support INVO’s efforts to ensure that your discoveries are able to be protected and commercialized. 

Inventors are most commonly asked to sign the following types of documents pertaining to a patent application:

Per the University Patent and Invention Policy, Northwestern inventors are expected to cooperate and participate in patent protection, including signatures on appropriate documents.  Any questions regarding these obligations should be directed to INVO.