A patent is issued by the United States Office Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) for those inventions and creations by individuals and businesses that are unique and of benefit to a segment of the public. Such a patent can be issued to someone who has made a discovery in the world of science, or who created a new material from constituent parts that they desire to protect and hold rights to under the law. No patent can be filed on the discovery of a raw element that exists in nature, however. On the other hand, someone who has invented a new scientific procedure or product should contact a science patent attorney who is experienced in that field and can help them file for a patent and guide them through the process of licensing or selling that intellectual property in the future.