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

Abstract

Inventions and patented technologies have recently been a more important contributing factor of economic growth in Vietnam. However, statistics showed that the number of patent applications from universities reached its highest level of about 160 applications, with about 110 applications from research institutes (in the year 2020). This number is still much lower than that of individual and enterprise applicants (about 340 applications from individuals and 390 applications from enterprises in 2020). 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.