Collaboration

EPO and ASTP Collaboration

The European Patent Office (EPO) is a key institution that grants European patents for inventions, ensuring the protection of intellectual property (IP) across its member states.

This partnership reflects a shared commitment to promoting innovation, supporting research commercialisation, and advancing best practices in intellectual property (IP) management.

Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)

On May 26, 2023, EPO and ASTP formalised their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement sets a framework for joint activities over an initial three-year period, focusing on strengthening knowledge transfer and the commercialisation of IP. The MoU underscores their shared objective of driving impactful innovation through efficient technology transfer practices.

Key Areas of Collaboration

The partnership involves organising joint educational and training activities, particularly for technology transfer professionals and staff within the EPO's PATLIB network. These initiatives aim to build capacity, enhance skills in IP management, and promote best practices. The collaboration also encourages experience exchange and outreach initiatives to raise awareness about the value of IP in fostering innovation.

Additionally, this partnership builds on the EPO's involvement in the European Technology Transfer Offices (ETTO) Circle, where it has been an observer since 2022. This reinforces the joint mission to facilitate greater cooperation and the dissemination of knowledge transfer methodologies across Europe.

Looking Ahead

This collaboration highlights the commitment of EPO and ASTP to advancing the role of IP in driving economic growth and societal impact. By working together, they aim to strengthen Europe’s innovation ecosystem and provide better support for professionals engaged in knowledge and technology transfer.

Testimonials

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It was great to experience the uncomplicated and fruitful exchange with colleagues from all over Europe, as well as the positive professional spirit of this conference.

Franck Döbrich

Universitat des Saarlandes WuT GmbH, Germany

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Working and Learning with old and new friends – best way to do it!

Sara Matt-Leubner

University of Innsbruck, Austria

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The event had something to offer all members of the TT community from entry level to mid-career and beyond.

John Gleeson

University of Limerick, Ireland

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ASTP corroborates the strong need for profound insights and exchanges on practices, instruments and competencies that cut across functional, organisational, institutional, sectorial and geographic boundaries.

Koenraad Debackere

KU Leuven, Belgium

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This course gives an in-depth understanding on managing contract portfolio, including research contracts, license agreements, and other collaboration agreements.

Ram Siddappa

Erasmus MC, Netherlands