Patenting Research Tools

THE RESEARCH-INTENSIVE BIOTECH industry credits its phenomenal growth to the development of ground-breaking research tools like the recombinant DNA technology, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and the hybridoma technique. Research tools provide the basic foundation for applied downstream research. Many experts have argued that patenting research tools can change the culture of science. The Protection and Utilisation of Public Funded Intellectual Property Bill, 2008 modelled on the Bayh-Dole Act of the US allows universities and research institutions to patent basic research. My article titled "Does Patenting Research change the culture of Science?" appeared in The Hindu and the same can be read here.