Iowa State University Research Foundation

In 1938, the Iowa State University Research Foundation, Inc. (ISURF) was established to manage the intellectual property that arises from the work of Iowa State employees and students. ISURF is a non-profit corporation and has an exemplary record of success.

ISURF’s Mission

ISURF’s mission statement is as follows: To own, manage, and protect intellectual properties including patents, copyrights, and materials on behalf of the university. In cooperation with the Office of Intellectual Property and Technology Transfer (OIPTT), procure legal counsel to protect, manage, and develop those properties. Manage the proceeds from licensing for the benefit of the university and the State of Iowa while remaining financially independent and self-sustaining. Benefit the public by enabling the use of university research by the private sector.