
Out of the Box: cancer checkpoints and targeted toxins
19/12/2025 | 15 min
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 examiners in helping to bring these “out of the box” ideas into the real world. Host: Cristina Lopes Margarido, EPO patent examiner in culinary equipment & food treating devices Guests: Helena Domingues, EPO patent examiner in immunology

Science meets startup: public research on the rise
08/12/2025 | 52 min
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. To illustrate this, the 2019 European Inventor Award winner shares his journey as an INSERM researcher and successful biotech founder, discussing the pivotal role of technology transfer offices, what it takes to turn groundbreaking discoveries into real-world impact and the evolving role of today's scientists. The conversation is accompanied by insights from the EPO Observatory's recent study on “The role of European public research in patenting and innovation.” Host: Victor Arribas Martinez, Stream leader, EPO Observatory on Patents and Technology Guests: Dr. Jérôme Galon, Cancer immunologist and research director, French National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM) More information: EPO study: “The role of European public research in patenting and innovation” Profile of Dr. Jérôme Galon on the EPO website

Digital and data-driven: the new age of agriculture
11/11/2025 | 15 min
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 and private firms are collaborating to drive innovation, and what challenges Europe must tackle to stay ahead. Host: Marguerite McCaughan, Communications Manager, EPO Guests: Victor Veefkind, Patent Examiner in Detergents, Explosives, Fertilisers and Stream Leader for Technology Intelligence at the EPO’s Observatory Christopher Armstrong, Manager of Start -ups & Open Innovation, German Agricultural Society Stanley Oliveira, Senior Researcher, Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (EMBRAPA) More information: Technology insight report “Digital Agriculture - Towards Sustainable Food Security”New technology platform on Digital Agriculture

Challenging competitors’ patents: three times to act
07/11/2025 | 5 min
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 specific to your own needs, nor should it be relied upon exclusively.You should consult a qualified professional (for example a European patent attorney) before taking any actions that could impact your business.

ICT, AI and quantum: can such cutting-edge tech be patented?
31/10/2025 | 2 min
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 comprehensive. It is not a substitute for legal advice specific to your own needs, nor should it be relied upon exclusively. You should consult a qualified professional (for example a European patentattorney) before taking any actions that could impact your business.



Talk innovation: unlocking technology