Patents and innovation in European universities

Disruptive technologies and the future of innovation seem to increasingly rely on academic research. The role of universities in technology transfer—through licensing, research contracts, spin-out companies and collaborative projects—continues to grow. This is especially true in cutting-edge fields like AI or quantum computing. Now, more than ever, understanding how to transform academic research into valuable IP assets, especially patents, is crucial for Europe.

To mark its first anniversary, the EPO’s Observatory on Patents and Technology is hosting an online event tailored for universities, researchers, policymakers and everyone passionate about innovation. At this event, we will address a key challenge: while Europe excels in research, effectively bringing these results to the market remains difficult. Our event aims to provide fresh perspectives that go beyond conventional measures, offering a comprehensive understanding of academic patenting across Europe.

Be the first to explore a new economic study on academic patents, showcasing the latest trends and presenting a comprehensive landscape of academic patenting activities and innovation environments in Europe. We will also present the newest version of the Deep Tech Finder, which will allow you to find and map university-filed European patent applications and university spin-offs. This will give you easy access to hundreds of patent documents from universities across Europe, helping you understand the vibrant landscape of European academic innovation.

Meet the EIT HEI Initiative team at the event

The event will include an interactive workshops on policy, tech transfer and IP education:

Embedding IP and entrepreneurship education in universities

Moderator: Cornelia Peuser, Stream Leader Diversity & Transformation, European Patent Office

  • Yiannis Dimitrakopoulos, Technology Transfer Office Manager, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
  • Dolores Volkert, Head of EIT HEI Initiative, EIT RawMaterials
  • Giovanna Oddo, Programme Area Manager for Academia, European Patent Office
  • Sofia Vairinho, IP Expert, University of Algarve