Talk innovation: unlocking technology

European Patent Office

“Talk innovation: unlocking technology” is brought to you by the European Patent Office (EPO). Expert presenters and guests – including our patent examiners - provide their perspective on technology trends and highlight ground-breaking inventions. Join us to learn more on the role of patents and the intellectual property (IP) system in supporting society and the economy.

Opinions expressed by podcast participants are their own and may not reflect the views of the EPO.

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S6 · E25
July 3 · 15 min
Battery circularity: how used EV batteries become future resources
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 second-life applications and advanced recycling technologies to policy developments like digital battery passports, discover how innovation is reshaping the lifecycle of batteries. Host: Marguerite McCaughan Communications Manager, EPO Guests: Teo Lombardo (International Energy Agency) More information: Observatory on Patents and Technology Technology insight report "Battery circularity - Innovation trends for a future source of critical materials" EU Battery Passport
S6 · E24
June 23 · 15 min
Out of the Box: how smart lighting saves lives
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 key tool in both safety and healthcare. Host: Cristina Lopes Margarido, EPO patent examiner in culinary equipment & food treating devices  Guest: Ian Morrish, EPO patent examiner in lighting control & electronic circuits
S6 · E24
June 9 · 38 min
Luca Rossettini's mission to clean up space debris
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. During his conversation with EPO patent examiner Edward Cooke, Luca traces his journey from childhood dreams of becoming an astronaut to time spent in Silicon Valley and NASA, and how that path led him to founding D-Orbit Group, a space logistics company nominated for the European Inventor Award 2023. He breaks down his innovative technology in simple terms and explains its evolution into in-orbit transportation and future space servicing. Along the way, he explores themes related to engineering, entrepreneurship, sustainability and intellectual property. Host: Edward Cooke, EPO patent examiner Guest: Luca Rossettini, founder and CEO of D-Orbit Group. Finalist for the European Inventor Award 2023. More information: Luca Rossettini’s profile on epo.org
S6 · E23
May 15 · 13 min
Out of the Box: Is sustainable flight finally taking off?
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 on old ones. Host: Cristina Lopes Margarido, EPO patent examiner in culinary equipment & food treating devices  Guests: Stefano Angelucci, EPO patent examiner in compressors, pumps & gas turbines
S6 · E22
April 21 · 35 min
AI and energy – a balancing act for sustainability
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 defining challenges. Their innovation will determine whether AI becomes a climate liability or a driver of a more sustainable future. From more efficient AI models and specialised chips to smart grids, energy storage solutions and cooling systems, discover the technologies that could significantly reduce energy use while enabling AI to continue scaling, unlocking even greater potential. Host: Jeremy Philpott, EPO communication manager Guests: Yann Ménière, EPO Chief Economist Sandra Zeljkovic, EPO patent examiner in electrical power converters Nicolas Douarche, EPO patent examiner and team manager in core AI & quantum computing More information: EPO Technology Dashboard 2025 EPO's Observatory on Patents and Technology Sophie Wilson, European Inventor Award finalist 2013 Jaan Leis, Mati Arulepp and Anti Perkson (Skeleton Technologies), European Inventor Award winners 2022
S6 · E21
March 31 · 33 min
Owning her story: Professor Dame Carol Robinson on women in STEM
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 generations, the importance of mentorship in academia and industry, and the value she sees in owning your story, whatever it may be. This conversation includes insights from the EPO Observatory on Patents and Technology's new study on the gender gap across Europe's innovation ecosystem. Host: Victor Arribas Martinez, Stream leader, EPO Observatory on Patents and Technology Guest: Professor Dame Carol Robinson, Director of the Kavli Institute for Nanoscience Discovery at Oxford University, Founder and Chair of the Scientific Advisory Board at OMass Therapeutics More information: “Advancing women in STEM. A data-driven assessment of the gender gap across Europe’s innovation ecosystem” March 2026 study from the EPO’s Observatory on Patents and Technology Recording of the event “The future needs her: Advancing women in STEM” Carol Vivien Robinson: Advancing biochemistry with mass spectrometry (epo.org)
S6 · E20
March 17 · 14 min
Out of the Box: How video streaming fits in your pocket
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 efficiency in areas like autonomous driving and smart cities. Host: Cristina Lopes Margarido, EPO patent examiner in culinary equipment & food treating devices  Guests: Maryse Stoufs, EPO patent examiner in video coding & compression.
S6 · E19
February 17 · 14 min
Out of the Box: 3D printing in space and safer batteries
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 like to examine inventions at the forefront of innovation. Host: Cristina Lopes Margarido, EPO patent examiner in culinary equipment & food treating devices  Guest: Inga Helgadóttir, EPO patent examiner in additive & powder technology
S6 · E18
February 3 · 25 min
Quantum in Europe: high stakes for emerging tech
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 talent and patient investors to developing resilient supply chains and strong intellectual property strategies, getting quantum to market can be complex but its potential impact is unprecedented. Drawing on key highlights from a recent EPO-OECD study on quantum computing, communication and sensing, this episode explores how inventors, policymakers and investors are working together to drive the next quantum revolution. Host: Marguerite McCaughan, Communications Manager, EPO Guests: Pere Arque Castells, Stream leader, EPO Observatory on Patents and Technology Guy Lalanne, Acting Head of Division - Productivity, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Samira Nik, European Innovation Council Alexandra Paul, Global Public Policy Lead, Pasqal Pierre Jaeger, Quantum Strategic Partnership Europe & Quantum Leader France, IBM Quantum Ylan Tran, Investor, Quantonation More information: Visit the EPO’s quantum technologies platform: epo.org/quantum
S6 · E17
January 20 · 34 min
Recycling rare earth elements for real impact
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 host Ed Cooke discuss the environmental challenges of rare earth mining, the technical breakthroughs behind her process and how her invention transforms electronic waste into a valuable resource, reducing chemical waste and energy use. Marie also reflects on the importance of innovation in the circular economy, the powerful influence of role models and the steep learning curve for scientists turned entrepreneurs. Host: Ed Cooke, EPO examiner Guests: Marie Perrin, Chemist and REEcover co-founder More information: Marie Perrin’s profile on epo.org
S6 · E16
Dec 19, 2025 · 15 min
Out of the Box: cancer checkpoints and targeted toxins
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
S6 · E15
Dec 8, 2025 · 52 min
Science meets startup: public research on the rise
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
S6 · E14
Nov 11, 2025 · 15 min
Digital and data-driven: the new age of agriculture
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
S6 · E13
Nov 7, 2025 · 5 min
HEADSTART: Challenging competitors’ patents: three times to act
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.
S6 · E12
Oct 31, 2025 · 2 min
HEADSTART: ICT, AI and quantum: can such cutting-edge tech be patented?
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.
S6 · E11
Oct 24, 2025 · 3 min
HEADSTART: Facts about applying for a patent: with (and without) a patent attorney
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 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.
S6 · E10
Oct 17, 2025 · 3 min
HEADSTART: How to accelerate the examination of your patent application
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 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.
S6 · E9
Oct 14, 2025 · 36 min
Exploring AI in the patent profession
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 explores how AI is already shaping the profession—and what might come next. Narrated by Marguerite McCaughan, EPO Guests: Sébastien Ragot, patent attorney, E. Blum & Co. Ltd. Vipul Mendiratta, project team lead, Caterpillar  Tim Powell, patent attorney, chair of the epi Working Group on the use of AI Angel Aledo Lopez, CTO at the EPO Further information: EPO’s AI Policy epi Guidelines: Use of Generative AI in the Work of Patent Attorneys EPO’s Legal Interactive Platform launched
S6 · E8
Oct 10, 2025 · 2 min
HEADSTART: Where does my patent take effect?
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 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.
S6 · E7
Oct 8, 2025 · 14 min
Out of the Box: ice cream machines and air fryers unpacked
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 of culinary equipment! Moderator:   Cristina Lopes Margarido, EPO patent examiner in culinary equipment & food treating devices    Guest:   Giorgio Acerbis, EPO patent examiner in culinary equipment & food treating devices

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