The NAI Chapter

The university’s National Academy of Inventors chapter was established in 2023 to recognize and support academic inventors who have issued patents from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The chapter has become a model for academic inventorship, with its educational programming, cross-campus collaboration, and strong ties to Tufts’ Technology Commercialization unit.

The Tufts chapter was honored with the academy’s Chapter of Excellence Award in 2025.

The chapter was established to support the missions of the NAI: 

(i) to recognize and celebrate the diverse contributions of academic inventors across all disciplines within the Tufts University community 

(ii) enhance the visibility of university technology and academic innovation

(iii) encourage the disclosure of inventions

(iv) mentor, educate, and empower innovative faculty and students

(v) to foster an environment where groundbreaking ideas realize their potential and transform into tangible solutions that address real-world challenges.

Together, chapter members aspire to cultivate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, where creativity knows no bounds and every idea has the power to shape the future. Join us as we embark on this journey to unlock the full potential of invention and make a difference in the world.

Tufts NAI Chapter Members will benefit by:

  • Receiving professional distinction
  • Having access to support from the NAI ecosystem, including the USPTO
  • Collaborating and networking with an interdisciplinary group of fellow faculty, student, and alumni inventors
  • Having a mechanism to obtain advice and guidance to new and existing innovations

Tufts NAI Chapter Members are expected to:

  • Attend scheduled events, workshops, and lectures
  • Support and mentor fellow members
  • Foster an inclusive environment through the spirit of innovation

In order to be eligible member, one must already be a member (Senior Member of Fellow) of the NAI or have at least one or more issued US patent through Tufts University and one or more active commercialization agreement (license or option) through Tufts or have three or more issued US patents through the university.

More information is available by contacting Tufts.NAI@tufts.edu.