Curious where the latest technology trends are heading? The EPO's annual Patent Index offers a comprehensive look into these advancements, tracking technological growth and patenting activity as well as top applicants and countries in the lead. Join EPO experts as they guide you through 2024’s key insights and explore some of the top fields like computer technology; electrical machinery, apparatus, energy; and transport. They also discuss the uptake of the Unitary Patent and how often women inventors were named on patent applications. Narrator: Jeremy Philpott, EPO Communication Manager Guests: Gilles Requena, EPO Chief Patent Research and Policy Officer Wiebke Hinrichs, EPO Patent Examiner in Cycles, Frames, Chains & Safety Marc Nicolas, Business Analyst at the EPO Yann Ménière, EPO Chief Economist Further resources: Patent Index 2024 Studies and reports Women’s participation in inventive activity (November 2022) EPO Observatory on Patents and Technology
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19:39
High stakes for Europe’s competitiveness and patents
This episode delves into the principal challenges facing innovation in Europe, as outlined in Mario Draghi’s prominent report “The future of European competitiveness.” Listen to gain insight into:
the role patent data plays in understanding innovation trends
which technical fields Europe is lagging behind in compared to its competitors
how the EPO’s high-quality patents and other activities contribute to the innovation process
the critical factors that may impact Europe changing course.
These important topics were tackled in a conversation between Gilles Requena, Chief Patent Research & Policies Officer at the EPO, and Alexandr Hobza, Chief Economist, Directorate-General for Research & Innovation at the European Commission, with moderation by Joff Wild, Head of Content at Sisvel and former Editor in Chief of IAM magazine.
Additional links:
Mario Draghi’s report: “The future of European competitiveness”
New innovation strategy for EU is vital – says report (EPO news item)
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23:13
EQE 2025: Tips to prepare for and tackle the exam
When embarking on your EQE journey, there are quite a few items on your to-do list. From figuring out where to register and the code of conduct to how to use the examination tools, navigating these formal requirements with confidence will help put you on the path towards acing the exam. In the first part of this episode, we’ll speak to an expert to make sure you know everything you need to about these requirements.
In the second half you’ll hear from a recent candidate and
gain invaluable insights based on her experience, plus all the useful tips she picked up along the way.
Moderator
Andrew Hards, European Patent Attorney and EQE tutor)
Speakers
Elena Schuman, Head of Department for EQE and Certifications, European Patent Office
Mozhdeh Seifi, Patent Examiner, European Patent Office
Further resources:
Professional activity infographic
European Qualification and Certification portal
Instructions to candidates
Code of conduct
FAQs
Music credits:
Opening background music: Music by AudioCoffee: https://freesound.org/people/AudioCoffee/sounds/736804/
Introductory background sound for testimonial: Ambient Crescendo
001B by nlux -- https://freesound.org/s/620790/
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17:55
EQE 2025: First stop…mastering legal foundations!
Paper F will be sat for the first time during the spring 2025 European Qualifying Examination (EQE). In this episode, you’ll learn strategies and tips to help you understand and prepare for Paper F from a highly experienced patent attorney and candidate trainer. We'll also dive into the topic of declarative knowledge and shed light on the training courses and resources available to help you thrive.
Moderator:
Andrew Hards, European Patent Attorney and EQE tutor
Guest:
Oana Boncea, European Patent Attorney and member of the epi Professional Education Committee
Further resources:
https://www.epo.org/en/learning/learning-resources-profile/eqe-candidates
Compendium (past papers)
EQE Guide for Preparation
Music credits:
Opening background music: Music by AudioCoffee: https://freesound.org/people/AudioCoffee/sounds/736804/
Introductory/closing background sound for testimonial: Ambient Crescendo 001B by nlux -- https://freesound.org/s/620790/ -- License: Attribution 4.0
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20:09
EQE 2025: Giving candidates greater flexibility
The European Qualifying Examination is adopting an
innovative approach based on flexibility, modularity and progressiveness. So, as a candidate, what does that mean for you?
In this episode, an expert breaks down the new structure
and discusses how different skills are mapped out across the modules, empowering candidates to build on their knowledge as they progress from papers F to M4 and build on their core competencies. Plus, gain insights into the measures ensuring a seamless transition to this new format.
Moderator:
Andrew Hards, European Patent Attorney and EQE tutor
Speaker:
Alejandro Flores Jiménez, Management Coordinator in Patent Intelligence, European Patent Office
Further information:
Transitional provisions
EQE timetable
EQE study guide
Learn more about the EQE and download mock paper F
Music credits:
Opening background music: AudioCoffee, https://freesound.org/people/AudioCoffee/sounds/736804/
Introductory/closing background sound for
testimonial: Ambient Crescendo 001B by nlux, https://freesound.org/s/620790/; License: Attribution 4.0
The EPO’s new channel “Talk innovation: patent professional edition” offers podcasts tailored to the needs of the patent profession: patent attorneys, lawyers, paralegals, patent searchers and related professions. Subscribe now and don’t miss any new episode.
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