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.
EPO and ASTP Collaboration
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) Key Areas of Collaboration Looking Ahead

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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Great networking, new knowledge and inspiration!

Jonas Rimbäck

University of Gothenburg, Sweden

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Starting or changing any procedure at a TTO/Institution is challenging and I could not think of anything better than learning with the best.

Ricardo Castro

Centre for research in agricultural Genomics, Spain

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Good opportunity to discuss common issues with fellow professionals and to get updates about the community.

Giuseppe Visimberga

Leiden University, Netherlands

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A lot of fruitful discussions with experienced peers. Very helpful sessions.

Sara Matt-Leubner

University of Innsbruck, Austria

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Recent studies on both sides of the Atlantic, directed by either ASTP or AUTM, demonstrate the tremendous economic and societal benefit and value technology transfer has brought us.

Koenraad Debackere

KU Leuven, Belgium