Public research organisations and innovation in Europe | EPO event

Public research organisations and innovation in Europe | EPO event

The European Patent Office’s Observatory invites you to a landmark virtual event exploring the crucial role of public research organisations (PROs) in Europe’s innovation ecosystem.

Why this matters to ASTP and its network

Public research organisations – including universities, research institutes, government laboratories, and knowledge transfer offices – are at the heart of Europe’s innovation landscape. They:

  • generate new knowledge and breakthrough discoveries

  • translate research into practical applications, products, and services

  • forge partnerships with industry, start-ups, and funding bodies

  • shape intellectual property strategies and knowledge transfer practices

This event closely aligns with ASTP’s mission to empower knowledge transfer professionals and strengthen the bridge between research and industry. Attendees will gain sector-wide insights, best practices, and data to inform strategy and decision-making in research commercialisation.

What to expect

  • Presentation of the first Europe-wide analysis of PROs and their innovation impact

  • Expert panels discussing the opportunities and challenges faced by PROs

  • Insights into how intellectual property, funding models, and institutional frameworks influence innovation

  • Interactive discussions and opportunities to engage with leading experts

Who should attend

  • Knowledge transfer professionals and university innovation managers

  • Research leaders and institutional strategists

  • Policy makers and funding agencies

  • Professionals in IP management and research valorisation

  • Anyone interested in the evolving contribution of PROs to European innovation

How to join

This free online event takes place on 22 October 2025. Further information and registration details are available on the EPO website.

Testimonials

testimonial

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

Giuseppe Visimberga

Leiden University, Netherlands

testimonial

Excellent organisation, multifarious activities, great atmosphere… I can't say enough about how well it is tailored to the needs of technology transfer professions.

Tamara Čolić Milosavljević

Centre of Technology Transfer - University of Belgrade, Serbia

testimonial

Great atmosphere to learn and to share experiences.

Maria Ruiz Novales

Interface-Enterprises - University of Liege, Belgium

testimonial

The experts, the specific content and the informal setting will improve you as a professional.

Brechtje Vreenegoor

Radboud Universteit, Netherlands

testimonial

I had a great experience and met high profile professionals.

Antonio Menegatti

Politecnico di Milano, Italy