Scientists’ motivation to patent and commercialize their inventions at universities and research institutes

Abstract

Self-determination theory (SDT) and a literature review suggests that scientists’ motivation to patent and commercialize their inventions is effort expended by a variety of intrinsic and extrinsic reasons. Based on qualitative analysis results, we found explorative evidence that both intrinsic reasons belonging to the scientists themselves and extrinsic ones arising from the environment of the scientists’ inventive activities are positively associated with the scientists’ motivation. Therefore, to implement the Intellectual Property Strategy to 2030, policymakers need to consider a variety of factors including not only extrinsic rewards, but also personal and social aspects related to intrinsic desires.