This is an interactive seminar for companies who are active within the biotech industry, which will explore how to use the IP system e.g. patent system to the advantage of your business.

In particular, the seminar will explain the types of biotech inventions that can, and importantly cannot be patented, which can vary according to the country. The seminar will also briefly discuss how patents can add value to your business, and be used against others. We will describe the value of performing diligent prior art searching and, where necessary “path clearing” action in respect of third party patent rights.

Finally, we will briefly explain how the European patent system is changing, and for a transitional period there will be a choice of how to obtain patent protection across the whole of Europe – European Unitary Patent.

We intend for the seminar to be a discussion rather than a lecture and will therefore invite attendees to make comments and ask questions during the seminar.

Seminar mentors

• Dr Stoyan Radkov (sar@udl.co.uk); and
• Dr Simon Mitchell (sjm@udl.co.uk)
• Urquhart-Dykes & Lord LLP, London

Learning objectives

By the end of the workshop, delegates should have better understanding of:

–          The types of biotech inventions that can be patented

–          How to obtain patent protection in the UK, Europe and farther afield

–          How patents can be used to commercial advantage

–          How to avoid problems with third party rights

–          Whether the European Unitary Patent is for you

Participating venues:

This event will be hosted at the Welsh Node in Swansea University and live streamed to NVI Nodes in Digital Greenwich and Manchester Science Partnerships.  Please indicate on your booking which venue you wish to attend.

This mentor session is free to attend for life science and ICT start ups and SMEs and is organised by NVI Wales part of the National Virtual Incubator Network and supported by the Welsh Government.

For more information click here.