European Patent Office (EPO)

Patents are fundamental to the knowledge transfer process, enabling the protection and commercialisation of innovative research outcomes. The EPO supports this by offering efficient and high-quality patent examination services, providing resources to help innovators understand and navigate the patenting process, facilitating access to patent information through databases like Espacenet, and promoting best practices in intellectual property management and utilisation.

ASTP and the EPO share a common mission: advancing innovation and supporting the effective transfer of knowledge across Europe. This collaboration, which began in 2023 with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), focuses on enhancing the understanding and application of intellectual property in knowledge transfer activities.

Key areas of collaboration include organising joint workshops and seminars to equip knowledge transfer professionals with expertise in IP management, patenting strategies, and technology commercialisation. The collaboration also facilitates the exchange of best practices in IP management and patenting among ASTP members and the wider innovation community. Furthermore, both organisations collaborate to influence and develop policies that support effective knowledge transfer and IP utilisation, while promoting access to EPO databases, publications, and learning materials to enhance the knowledge base of ASTP members.

ASTP members can benefit from the collaboration with EPO by participating in joint events such as workshops and webinars focused on intellectual property and patenting strategies. They can also access valuable EPO resources, including tools like Espacenet for patent searches and insights. Learning from EPO experts offers members in-depth knowledge of best practices for patent applications and IP management. Additionally, strengthening networks by connecting with IP experts and peers can foster collaborations that enhance knowledge transfer outcomes.

ASTP and EPO’s collaboration strengthens the role of patents in facilitating effective knowledge transfer. By empowering knowledge transfer professionals with the right tools and knowledge, they enable innovations to move from research to real-world application more efficiently.

Through this partnership, ASTP and EPO continue to promote the value of intellectual property in driving innovation and enhancing Europe’s knowledge transfer landscape.

• European Patent Office Website
• Espacenet Patent Search
• EPO Learning Resources