Abstract

Is it possible for a child to possess copyrights and intellectual property rights for their creation? Jack Andraka, a high school student from Maryland, developed an innovative paper-based sensor at the age of 15. This sensor can detect pancreatic, ovarian, and lung cancer within a span of five minutes and costs as little as three cents. Andraka conducted his research at Johns Hopkins University and has received the Gordon E. Moore award at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair as well as the Smithsonian American Ingenuity Award. During the 2018 lighting ceremony commemorating the 70th Independence Day of the State of Israel, 15-year-old May Korman had the honor of lighting one of the beacons. May, a high school student from Kiryat Haim, had the honor because of her innovative invention aimed at preventing the occurrence of leaving young children unattended in the rear seat of a vehicle. May’s invention allowed her to light a beacon on Independence Day, a noteworthy and remarkable accomplishment. Is it possible, however, for either May or Jack to officially register their inventions as a patent? Are they eligible for patent rights? Should the invention be successfully commercialized and introduced as a marketable product? Will May and Jack be given the opportunity to benefit from the financial gains and royalties their inventions generate? And what about copyright rights to their creations? Who are the other stakeholders involved in child creations, and do they have rights in the child’s creation process? What if the creation was produced during school hours as part of the child’s educational program with the assistance of a teacher or mentor? This article presents an innovative approach to understanding and addressing the rights associated with inventions created by minors. It delves into the unique challenges and complexities surrounding ownership, control, and protection of intellectual property generated by minors. By exploring legal, ethical, and societal dimensions, the article aims to offer a comprehensive framework that balances the interests of minors, their guardians, and other stakeholders, while also fostering creativity and innovation in younger generations.

Keywords: Intellectual Property, IP, STEM

How to Cite:

Asi Vetcher, IP Rights of Minors in School & STEM Innovation Programs, 8 Ariz. L. J.
Emerging Tech., no. 7, 2025, https://doi.org/10.2458/azlawjet.8729.