Fredrik, if I'm employed as researcher at Lund University, can I start my own company based on my research?
"Yes, absolutely! The professor's privilege (lärarundantaget) gives you the right to transfer and exploit your research results in your own company. At LU Innovation, we support hundreds of researchers each year to ensure that research results are put to good use and that the professor's privilege is handled responsibly.
What should I consider if my company is to collaborate with the university?
"That conflicts of interest can arise. You cannot negotiate with yourself – that is, you cannot represent LU and your own company simultaneously. See if it is possible for someone else to represent LU. Even if you don't own shares but sit on the board of your company, you may have a conflict of interest. If uncertain, contact the Head of Department.
How much am I allowed to work with my company on the side?
Secondary activiy (bisyssla) must be reported in advance via Primula. The work you do through that activity must not compete with or hinder your work at the university. Secondary activities, related to research and development within your subject area have slightly wider parameters, but the main rule applies – it must not damage trust in the university.
Things to consider:
- The professor's privilege applies primarily to patentable inventions.There are research results that belong to the university and which you cannot commercialise.
- Report secondary activity in advance. Learn more.
- Don't forget the conflict-of-interest question when your company collaborates with the university. Does the company need to hire laboratory equipment? Contact your Head of Department to enquire about the possibility of an agreement with the university.
- Uncertain? Contact your Head of Department.
- LU Innovation's team has legal expertise to support and advise researchers who are starting companies.
- Regarding the question of whether the secondary activity can be considered permitted, you need to ask your Head of Department.
Contact your innovation developer at LU Innovation for questions. Contact LU Innovation.
Read more about new rules regarding secondary activity at Lund University.