Monitor and evaluate the R&D activities in the U.SA. in order to identify subject matter appropriate for patent or trade secret protection on a global basis, and prepare/file and prosecute patent applications arising from R&D activities in the U.S. Monitor and assess patent protection in all appropriate countries outside the U.S. for inventions arising from R&D activities in the U.S. in cooperation with the Patent Departments of BI GmbH and BI Vetmedica GmbH.