Dispute Overview

Dr. Suppes has enjoyed a positive working relationship with the University of Missouri related to his teaching activities. But he has been at odds almost since he came to work for the University in late 2001 over its ownership and utilization of his intellectual property.

Mizzou has claimed ownership over several patents whose supporting research had been conducted and completed prior to his employment there. The University has also demanded assignment of one patent to them which Suppes has refused. The patent in question was based on four provisional patent applications all filed prior to his starting employment at MU.

From the professor's perspective, he initially hesitated to assign certain innovations to the University because of dissatisfaction with their efforts, or lack of efforts, to patent and commercialize his work. However, he eventually did assign rights despite his reservations. Additionally, Suppes is not the only faculty scientist with concerns about the technology transfer system of the University of Missouri.

Resolution

The Federal case filed against Dr. Suppes was dismissed citing lack of jurisdiction. However, the same day that case was set aside, attorneys for the University filed in the Boone County court system. Dr. Suppes is considering filing a counter-suit against Mizzou in the county court as well as fighting the charges against him.

This case study will be updated with the progress of the lawsuit and any results as they happen.