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Show 161. working on salary derived-from the University with supplies and equipment furnished by the University, must work without thought of benefits derived from patents secured on processes developed as a result of their work. Such a policy is one that, so far as I know, is followed by all big employing companies in this country. Some disappointments and difficulties grew out of a patent obtained a few years ago on a metallurgical process that had its beginning in our metallurgical laboratories by employees of the University. As a result we thought it was perfectly understood by University employees, working in the Metallurgical Research Department, that any patents arising from work done therein should belong entirely tothe University. For years we have required our Metallurgical Research Fellows to sign contracts in this respect. And with respect to the present situation my understanding has been, on oral statements made by Mr. Varley at different times, that it was well understood by Dr. Bradford and all concerned that if a patent should be issued it would be assigned without question to the University. It was not until after the beginning of this school year that I had any knewledge that anyone else viewed the matter differently. So when Mr. Lyon was here in December several conferences relative to the matter were held. At one of these Mr. Lyon and Mr. Varley and Dr. Bradford met with the officers of the » Pope Shenon Mining Co. and it was finally agreed to make to you the recommendations stated in Mr. Varley's letter of February lst. Mr. Lyon told me afterwards that it was the most favorable agreement for the University that he could get the other parties to assent to. The matter now comes to you and the Board of Regents. Personally I do not like the arrangements, and, therefore, prefer to leave it to you and the Board without recommendaI do recommend, however, that a definite tions from me. patents for work done by all employees of ng policy concerni the Metallurgical Research Department shall be definitely established. I have heretofore communicated to you my views respecting the matter. In the present case Dr. Bradford is suggesting that the him outUniversity interests in the patent be assigned to side of the State of Utah. According to this suggestion have and recommendations made by him, the UniverSity would The no interest in the patent outside of this state. upon the extent le derab con31 a question turns, of course, to ng for is worki point whether an employee of the UniverSity utioh. It himself or whether he is working for the Instit of the will be recollected, of course, that nearly one-half |
