Trump vs. Harvard: The Battle Over Patents

Harvard University has been making headlines for more than just academics. From resisting government crackdowns on students to challenging federal funding freezes, the school has stood its ground against heavy-handed demands. Now, the spotlight has shifted to something less visible but just as valuable: its massive portfolio of patents.

At issue is the Bayh-Dole Act, a U.S. law that says inventions created with taxpayer money should ultimately serve the public. The Trump administration claims Harvard breached its obligations and has triggered what’s known as a “march-in” right—a legal tool that lets the government step in and take control of patents if it believes the public isn’t benefiting enough from them. If enforced, Washington could seize ownership of Harvard’s patents—or hand them out to other companies. That’s a big deal: the university holds more than 5,800 patents and works with hundreds of industry partners to bring student and faculty inventions to life.

Here’s the part that should make inventors—and anyone who values innovation—pay attention: if the government starts redistributing patents, the creators behind them could lose control over how their work is used. Imagine spending years developing a breakthrough, only to see it handed off to whichever corporate giant gets the license. That may clash not only with the inventor’s vision but also with the values of institutions like Harvard, which emphasize research for the public good. For students and researchers worldwide, the message is clear: patents are more than legal documents; they’re about ownership, intent, and trust.

If your research or business relies on federally funded innovation, it’s time to understand the risks. Our team can help you safeguard your intellectual property in a shifting legal landscape—get in touch today!

Text: Stempel, Jonathan. ‘Exclusive: Harvard Patents Targeted by Trump Administration’. Reuters, 8 Aug. 2025. www.reuters.com, https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/harvard-patents-targeted-by-trump-administration-2025-08-08/.

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