These policies apply to the ownership of patents and copyrights in works invented or created by Colgate students, staff, and faculty.

"Faculty" includes academic, library, and athletic faculty using University funds, facilities, or other resources. The Committee on Intellectual Property oversees these policies.

Material Transfer Agreement Procedure

Any Material Transfer Agreement (MTA) should be sent to Purchasing so the approval/signature process can begin.

MTA Procedure

Committee on Intellectual Property

The committee on intellectual property serves as an advisory committee to the Provost on all University intellectual property issues. The committee’s responsibilities will include the review of intellectual property issues affecting the University, determination of ownership of intellectual property, recommendation of policies for allocation of revenues, and review or development of policy recommendations pertaining to intellectual property. The membership of the committee is as follows:

  • Associate Provost (Chair)
  • Financial Vice President and Treasurer (or delegate)
  • Chief Information Technology Officer
  • Director of Corporate, Foundation and Government Relations
  • Four faculty (one each from the academic divisions of humanities, natural sciences and mathematics, and social sciences and one from the library; elected by the faculty for three year terms, which are renewable)

Distance Learning

Intellectual property rights and distance learning are connected in important ways. The topic of online courses for credit is of such great scope that it deserves special and immediate consideration by the Committee on Intellectual Property. The Committee will investigate the full range of issues and report its recommendations, including policies for the university to adopt, within 12 months from the date that the committee is established.

Email Use Policy

Colgate University provides an email system for students, faculty, staff, alumni and others to facilitate communication related to academic, administrative, and community engagement matters. Email is an official means of communication for the university, and users are responsible for communications via this system.