Talk innovation: unlocking technology

How can plant biotechnology help crops withstand drought, flooding and disease, clean polluted soil and even produce medicines?  
In this episode, Jeremy Philpott explores the science and IP protection behind plant technologies with Julia Krüger, an EPO patent examiner in biological materials, and Jean-Luc Gal, a patent lawyer. They explore the groundbreaking research behind gene editing, biotechnology’s role in supporting food security and climate resilience, and the patents and plant variety rights that reward inventors. 
 
Host: Jeremy Philpott, communications manager, EPO 
 
Guests:  
Julia Krüger, patent examiner; EPO 
Jean-Luc Gal, patent lawyer, EPO 
 
 
More information: 
Insight into plant biotechnology 
Biotech Patents  
Q&A on plant patents

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

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

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

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