My RTTP Journey: Christoph Fik

For Christoph, the path to Registered Technology Transfer Professional (RTTP) recognition began with an early interest in intellectual property protection, encouragement from a mentor with a passion for patents and a career that gradually brought him closer to the world of research commercialisation.

Today, Christoph works as a Spin-off Licensing Manager at ETH transfer, the knowledge transfer office of ETH Zurich, Switzerland. With a background in polymer chemistry and patent engineering, he has spent almost a decade at ETH Zurich, helping researchers turn their ideas into opportunities for entrepreneurship.

His decision to pursue RTTP recognition was inspired by something obvious: seeing fellow knowledge transfer professionals successfully complete the process. Their achievements encouraged him to take the next step and seek recognition for his own experience.

“The RTTP recognition is an evidence-based evaluation and objective validation of my long-term professional achievements. It is an outstanding quality benchmark that helps me to stay at the forefront of technology transfer and spin-off ecosystem. I am deeply grateful to have received it.”

A career shaped by patents and people

Christoph's interest in intellectual property began during his doctoral studies, when he had the opportunity to become an inventor of patents.

Later, while working in industry, an office colleague became an important guide, continuously encouraging him to strive for product patents and designs. Although his former colleague has since retired, the two remain friends.

Following this path eventually brought Christoph to ETH transfer, where he initially spent almost six years as an Patent and Licensing Manager before moving into spin-off licensing.

For nearly four years, he has been working closely with researchers and entrepreneurs to support the creation and growth of spin-offs based on ETH Zurich research.

His responsibilities cover a broad range of activities, including developing licensing and assignment arrangements, supporting company incorporation, managing equity-related matters and accompanying spin-offs through investment rounds and eventual exits.

He specialises in cases involving software, data and prototypes, where licensing arrangements can become particularly complex. His work also involves collaborations with external accelerators and partner universities.

Beyond the contractual and commercial aspects of his role, Christoph particularly appreciates the human side of knowledge transfer: witnessing the enthusiasm and determination of scientists as they explore the possibility of becoming founders.

Finding new perspectives through ASTP

Throughout his professional development, Christoph has taken advantage of different ASTP learning opportunities, combining specialised training with exchanges among fellow professionals.

One experience stands out: the Software Specific Challenges in Knowledge Transfer course held in Sitges, Spain, in 2023. The training was particularly influential in giving him the confidence to pursue RTTP recognition.

Other valuable learning experiences have included the Advanced Digital Innovation online courses, the Student IP Policy masterclass and workshops at ASTP Annual Conferences.

Christoph has also contributed to the ASTP community as a co-host of the Digital Innovations Special Interest Group (SIG), helping create opportunities for professionals to discuss challenges, exchange experiences and explore approaches to digital innovation.

This involvement reflects his belief that professional development goes beyond attending courses. Participating in a SIG offers the chance to contribute knowledge, learn from different perspectives and build relationships with colleagues facing similar challenges.

For Christoph, in-person training remains particularly valuable. While he recognises the flexibility and affordability of online courses, he considers direct interaction with experts and peers difficult to replace.

Among the courses he recommends are Software Specific Challenges in Knowledge Transfer, Creating Successful Spin-Outs and Negotiation Skills for KTOs, particularly for professionals working in related areas.

Taking the next step towards RTTP

For Christoph, achieving RTTP recognition provides evidence of the qualifications and experience he has developed throughout his career. Personally, it confirms his professional capabilities; professionally, it marks an important milestone in his mid-term career plans.

Although the achievements behind his application were built over many years, preparing for RTTP required careful attention to the recognition criteria.

He recommends that prospective applicants first check whether they have accumulated sufficient Continuing Education (CE) points in each required category. He also advises starting the Achievement Overview as early as possible rather than leaving this important part of the application until the end.

One aspect of the process that Christoph particularly appreciated was the support he received from ASTP and the RTTP administrative teams, which helped him navigate the application requirements.

His experience also offers encouragement to professionals who may be uncertain whether they are ready to apply. Just as the success of his peers motivated him to pursue RTTP, his own achievement can now serve as an example to others considering the same step.

From his first experiences as an inventor to supporting the next generation of ETH Zurich spin-offs, Christoph's career has been shaped by curiosity, practical experience and people willing to share their knowledge.

RTTP recognition brings those experiences together in a professional milestone, while his continued involvement in the ASTP community reflects a commitment to the learning and collaboration that have helped him along the way.