Talk innovation: unlocking technology

What if millions of used electric vehicle (EV)  batteries weren’t waste, but instead a valuable resource?  Drawing on insights from the International Energy Agency and EPO patent data, this episode explores how battery circularity can extend the life of EV batteries, reduce uncertainty around obtaining critical materials like lithium and cobalt, and support a more sustainable energy future. From s...

Could better lighting really be the key to unlocking better health and safety outcomes?    Join two EPO examiners as they explore how advances in LED lighting technologies are transforming everyday life. From adaptive lighting systems that support hospital patient recovery to smart brake lights that communicate with other vehicles to reduce accidents, discover how controlled light is becoming a ke...

We're surrounded by debris that's invisible to the naked eye. With thousands of inactive satellites orbiting Earth, space is becoming an increasingly critical sustainability frontier.   In this edited recording from the Inspiring Inventors live event series, Italian aerospace engineer Luca Rossettini explores how autonomous technology can reduce space debris and protect satellites in orbit...

Reducing aircraft fuel consumption isn't just a question of combating rising prices and scarcity, it's also crucial for protecting our environment.   Join two EPO patent examiners as they discuss how breakthroughs in aircraft engines, gas turbines and hydrogen are shaping the future of aviation and space mobility. They also explain the role patents play, enabling new discoveries to build o...

Artificial intelligence is transforming the way we work and innovate, but it is also driving a rapid increase in energy demand, raising urgent questions about sustainability and climate impact. Drawing on insights from European Patent Office experts and patenting trends across AI, semiconductors, renewable energy and smart grids, this episode highlights how inventors are tackling one of today’s de...

From leaving school at 16 to directing  breakthrough  research  programmes  at top universities, Professor Dame Carol Robinson has had a rich and nonlinear STEM career.  Listen as she explains how persistence and practical skills helped her field hurdles while tackling imposter syndrome and a career break to raise her children. She also discusses the improvements she's seen for future generati...

From mobile streaming to videos only intended to be seen by computers, the technology behind compression algorithms has opened a world of possibilities that goes far beyond entertainment.     Join two EPO patent examiners as they discuss how decades of global collaboration have shaped today's digital technologies, and   how new approaches to video coding can improve speed, privacy and efficien...

Join two EPO examiners as they explore the out-of-this-world to everyday advancements made possible by 3D printing.  From printing tools in outer space to creating smart safety coatings for cell batteries to help protect children, discover the materials science behind these additive and powder technologies. Get insight into what makes these breakthroughs truly “out of the box,” and what it's l...

Quantum technologies promise to radically accelerate progress in medicine, climate modelling, materials science, energy systems and beyond. But what stage are these technologies at today?  Get an exciting look into the future of innovation as experts discuss Europe's world-class quantum science and startup scene and what it will take for their breakthroughs to scale. From finding the right tal...

Driven by a lifelong passion for science and a commitment to environmental sustainability, Marie Perrin discovered an innovative method for recycling rare earth elements from electronic waste. In this episode the winner of the World Builders Prize at the Young Inventors Prize 2025 shares her journey from doctoral researcher at ETH Zurich to co-founder of pioneering startup REEcover.   Marie and ho...

Join host Cristina Margarido and immunology expert Helena Domingues as they explore how groundbreaking health inventions are transforming lives.  From immune checkpoint inhibitors revolutionising cancer therapy to the surprising medical uses of Botox, they discuss the science behind these innovations, the increasing complexity of patent applications in these fields and the rewarding role of patent...

In recent years the worlds of public research and startups have become more linked than ever, attracting a high share of investment and playing a vital role in European competitiveness.    But this wasn't always the case. In this episode, cancer immunologist and entrepreneur Dr Jérôme Galon sheds light on how researchers have found increasing acceptance and support as they branch into business...

The global population is growing, and digital agriculture is reshaping food production to meet their needs.   So, where is farming being re-invented and who's behind it? Join experts as they discuss the rise of cutting-edge technologies like AI robotics, data analytics and automation, sharing examples such as automated fruit trackers and smart farming platforms. Hear how public research bodies...

Think a patent shouldn't have been granted? This episode explains: How to challenge a competitor’s patent – fromsubmitting observations and filing oppositions to seeking revocation.  When and how you can act, and why public inputmatters for patent quality. The general information in these videos provides only abroad overview and is not comprehensive. It is not a substitute for legal advice specifi...

Can software be patented? Discover how computer-implemented inventions - including AI and quantum computing - can qualify for patent protection. In this episode, you’ll learn about the criteria under the European patent system, including the requirement to solve a technical problem in a novel and non-obvious way.  The general information in these videos provides only abroad overview and is not com...

Do you need a patent attorney to file a patent application? In this episode, you’ll learn: When you can file yourself and when expert helpis required. About the benefits of professionalrepresentation How to find the right attorney for your businessneeds The general information in these videos provides only abroad overview and is not comprehensive. It is not a substitute for legal advice specific t...

In fast-evolving technical fields, timing can be everything. In this episode, you’ll learn: Ways to expedite the examination of your patentapplication at the EPO, including PACE requests, enquiries, and the Patent Prosecution Highway. How to engage with examiners and leverageinternational agreements to help speed up the process. The general information in these videos provides only abroad overview...

How is artificial intelligence changing the way patent professionals search, draft and work with patents? Our expert guests, including patent attorneys, patent searchers and the EPO's Chief Technology Officer, take you on a journey through real-world use cases, ethical consideration and personal experiences with AI in patent practice.  From the practical to the forward-looking, this episode ex...

A patent is not automatically valid everywhere. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to choose which countries to validate yourpatent in and tailor the geographic scope to your business strategy. About the importance of selecting the rightterritories through the process of validation How to optimise costs while protecting yourinvention in key markets. The general information in these videos provides...

Join two EPO patent examiners as they dish about some of the hottest and coolest inventions in kitchen technology. From air fryers to ice cream machines, discover the stories behind two innovations that have revolutionised home cooking, why patents are so important in the world of kitchen gadgets and the role that big companies and small inventors play. Tune in for a peek into the delicious future...

Congratulations! Now that your patent is granted, what arethe next steps? In this episode, you’ll learn: How to validate it, pay fees and handlechallenges, all while aligning with your business strategy. How to make the most of your newly grantedrights. Note: Holding a granted patent does not confer anabsolute right to commercially exploit the invention; such exploitation remains subject to compli...

Filing a patent application isn’t the same as having agranted patent. In this episode, you’ll understand: The difference between submitting a request forexclusive rights and actually having enforceable patent rights. The publication process, examination rounds,search reports, and when you can actually claim: "I have a patent". The general information in these videos provides only abroad overview a...

Solar energy is more integrated into our daily lives than ever before, powering homes, cities and even wearable devices. What’s driving this transformation, and how are innovation and policy shaping the future of photovoltaics?    Join inventors, startup founders and policymakers as they discuss the latest breakthroughs in photovoltaics, from hydrogen-generating inventions to floating solar farms....

Not all technical advancements are patentable.   📌 Discover in this episode: What makes an invention truly “inventive” in away that meets patentability criteria. How this criterion supports technologicaldevelopment The role of the patent system in fosteringinnovation and protecting unique advancements. The general information in these videos provides only abroad overview and is not comprehensive....

Before filing a patent application, make sure your inventionis ready. It’s not just about having a great idea – you need the technical details in place. This episode explains: What to include, from your description and drawings to your claims. How to draft a clear, complete application toprotect your invention and support your business strategy. The general information in these videos providesonly...