Election to Council 2026 - Candidates

Involved with IP matter since 1994, initially on the scope of innovation relay centres networking and exchange projects, part of professional projects between Albania and other countries, pertinent to nature resource management.
The patent and trademark attorney work initiated after the 1995, from the Albania Patent and Trademark office, with a trademark portfolio and patent matters that have been continuously expanding and growing in the successive 30 years. In the frame of this activity, other affiliations have been solicited and several international partnerships established aiming information and dissemination of knowledge and experience on intellectual property matter, as well as implications from the national perspective, in various relevant fields such as economy, industry and science and respective technologies.
Experience is owned in respect with Albanian regulatory frame applied on IP and related matters, transfer of scientific research and its relevance into development of participatory programs/projects nationwide etc. providing liaison to network of professionals, partners and subjects which are all interested and involved directly or indirectly with the IPRs issues.
The IP practice has encouraged, stimulated and supported several SME and economic operators with professional assistance in IPRs areas, copyright, legal aspects and the associated problems including also provision of protection of IPRs with the respective Albanian institutions

Born in Tirana in 1984
Melina is Graduated at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece, BA in Communication and Media Studies, and Msc in History at the Faculty of History, University of Tirana, Albania
Albanian Patent & Trademark Attorney since 2009
European Patent Attorney since 2011
Working with PETOSEVIC IP Office Tirana – since 2011, handling patent, trademark and industrial design prosecution and maintenance and representing clients in patent and trademark opposition, cancellation, and infringement proceedings. In particular, she assists clients for SPC registration and maintenance, comparing European provision to the local legal provision and regulation.

EPI Disciplinary Committee (DC) member: 2017-2020; 2020-2023; 2023-2026
Memberships: EPI, INTA,
Language: Albanian, English, Greek, Italian

Graduated in Mechanical/Metallurgy Engineering (ENTMD, Douai, France, IUT Nancy, France), 1977
PhD (Docteur Ingénieur) ENSCP, Paris VI, 1982
Professor at Polytechnic University of Tirana, 1982-2010
Albanian Patent & Trademark Attorney since 2000
European Patent Attorney since 2010
Director of PETOSEVIC IP Office Tirana – since 2011
EPI Board Member 2011-2017
EPI Council Member since 2011 (2011-2014; 2014-2017; 2017-2020; 2020-2023; 2023-2026)
Memberships: EPI, FICPI, AIPPI; INTA

Ela Shomo Panidha

Born in Tirana in 1976
Studied Electronic Engineering, Master degree in Computer Sciences at the Polytechnic University of Tirana
Admitted as Albanian IP Attorney since 2000
Admitted as European Patent Attorney since 2011
Working for EUROMARKPAT ALBANIA as a Patent and Trademark Attorney since 2000

Main fields of activity

Areas of technical expertise: Electronic engineering, Computer Science
Advising clients in all areas of industrial property protection
Representing clients in the prosecution before AL-IPO and enforcement of national patent, trademark, design, and geographical indication applications
Patent prosecution before the European Patent Office
Representing clients in trademark opposition, cancellation, and infringement proceedings

Memberships : INTA; ECTA; EPI
Languages: Albanian, English, Italian
Hobbies: Volleyball

Vjollca Shomo

Born in Tirana in 1951
Studied English Literature at the University of Tirana
Manager of the Intellectual Property Department at the Albanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry for many years with responsibilities as an IP adviser, representative and examiner
Admitted as an Albanian Patent Attorney in 1994
Admitted as a European Patent Attorney in 2011
Has been working for EUROMARKPAT since 1994
Main fields of activity

Advising clients in all areas of industrial property protection
Representing clients in patent application and opposition proceedings before the Albanian Patent and Trade Mark Office and before the European Patent Office
Representing clients in patent revocation and infringement proceedings before the relevant court in Tirana
Assisting clients in applying for and registering trade marks, designs and indications of geographical origin before the Albanian Patent and Trade Mark Office
Representing clients in trade mark opposition, cancellation and infringement proceedings

Memberships: INTA; ECTA
Languages: Albanian, English, French
Hobbies: poetry writing, reading

Otto Hanemann is responsible for the global patent activities at Lenzing Group. He started chemistry studies in Germany and earned a PhD in polymer chemistry from the Technical University of Karlsruhe in 1996. Working in a chemical engineering company in Frankfurt for 10 years, he started as a research project manager with responsibility for the design, assembly and operation of a small-scale pilot plant for a new product. After several positions in process development and product management – with increasing responsibility for the related IP aspects – he moved to the patent department and qualified as a European patent attorney in 2006. For several years he was an active board member of the Rhein-Main area regional group of the German Association of Intellectual Property Experts. In 2007 he joined the legal department of Lenzing AG. Otto Hanemann is experienced in international patent prosecution, patent portfolio management, consultancy for the IP-related issues of a global player in the textile industry, including negotiation of licence and cooperation agreements, as well as patent litigation in Austria and Asia. He has authored and litigated a substantial number of patents, and has led dozens of opposition and invalidation trials before the German, Austrian, European and Chinese patent offices.

- Studies of Technical Physics at Vienna Technical University
- Training as patent attorney in industry (at VA Technologie AG)
- European Patent Attorney since 2000
- Austrian Patent Attorney since 2003
- Patent Department at Siemens AG Austria
- Kliment & Henhapel Patentanwälte OG since 2008
- Lay judge in patent matters at the Higher Regional Court of Vienna since 2020

Member of epi Council since 2005

• Working in the patent field since 2004 (company IP department)
• European Patent Attorney
• European Patent Litigator
• Member of epi Council (substitute/full member since 2014)
• Auditor of the epi (substitute/full since 2020)
• Dr. rer. nat. in Chemistry at University of Vienna as well as Master in “legal and business aspects in technics” at Johannes Kepler University Linz

• Austrian and European Patent Attorney
• UPC-Representative
• Partner at Gibler & Poth Patentanwälte KG
• Member of epi Council (since 2023)
• CEIPI-tutor (basic course and D-Seminar in Strasbourg)
• Member of the epi Disciplinary Committee
• Technical judge at the Court of Appeal in Vienna
• Studies of Mechanical Engineering in Vienna and Business Administration in Krems
• Working in the patent field since 2000 (Private practice)

Dipl.-Ing. Boris André Prehofer
Radegunderstraße 112b/4
8045 Graz
Austria
Phone: 0043 664 88555407

Date of Birth: 27.09.1980
Nationality: Austrian


Professional Experience:

Since 2025: Board member at "Österreichische Vereinigung für gewerblichen Rechtsschutz und Urheberrecht".

Since 2023:
epi Council member and member of PCC.
Federation of Austrian Industries / SACEPO delegate.

Since 2015: Patent Professional at Siemens AG Österreich, Vienna (Austria). Responsible for the railway bogies and pantographs unit of Siemens Mobility Austria GmbH.

2015-2015: Project Engineer for bogies of coach and commuter trains at Siemens AG Österreich, Graz (Austria).

Since 2013: External lecturer at Graz University of Technology, Institute of Structural Durability and Railway Technology (former working group for lightweight design, Institute of Machine Components and Methods of Development), course "Railway Technology".
2012-2013: External lecturer at Graz University of Technology, Institute of Mechanics, course "Mobile Robots".

2011-2014: Development Engineer for railway bogie brakes at Siemens AG Österreich, Graz.
2013: Admission to the "Circle of Expertise", title "Expert".

2010-2011: Deputy head of the Research Platform Flight Simulation at Graz University of Technology.

2007-2011: Scientific/University Assistant at Graz University of Technology, Institute of Mechanics.


Completed Education:

2022: European Qualifying Examination (EQE) passed, European Patent Attorney since 2022.

2007: Master of Science (MSc, "Diplomingenieur") in Mechanical Engineering and Business Economics at Graz University of Technology. Final diploma examination passed with excellent success.

1999: Matura at the Bundesgymnasium Seebachergasse Graz. Examination passed with excellent success.

Language Skills: German (mother tongue), English, Italian, basic skills in French and Spanish.

Working in Andritz AG. Now retired.
2002-2020 member of epi Counsil
1998-2017 member of PQC/PEC
since 2017 member of Supervisory Board of EQE
since 1993 member of epi
2003-2024 Austrian Patent Attorney

2023 European Patent Litigator
2018 Technical Judge, Higher Regional Court of Vienna
2017 Course coordinator, CEIPI basic training course
2014 Partner, SONN Patentanwälte
2009 Tutor, CEIPI basic training course
2009 Austrian Patent Attorney
2008 European Patent Attorney
2004 Patent Attorney candidate, SONN Patentanwälte
2004 Dr. (Biochemistry), University of Vienna

www.sonn.at/de/team/philipp-weinzinger

Professional Experience:
2014 – Present: Head of Patent Department, Boehringer Ingelheim RCV GmbH & Co KG, Vienna, Austria
2001 – 2014: Various positions in the Patent Division of Boehringer Ingelheim, Ingelheim/Biberach, Germany
2000 – 2001: Patent Expert, GSF – Research Center for Environment and Health, Munich, Germany
1999 – 2000: Traineeship at the German Patent Office, Patent Court, and Civil Court, Munich
1997 – 2000: Patent Attorney Trainee, Patent Law Firm Müller & Hoffmann, Munich
1993 – 1997: Scientific Employee, Max Planck Institute for Biology, Tübingen, Germany

Qualifications:
2023: UPC Representative
2006: Master of Laws, LL.M.
2001: European Patent Attorney; European Trademark and Design Attorney
2000: German Patent Attorney
1996: Doctorate in Natural Sciences (Biochemistry, Organic Chemistry, Immunology)
1993: Diploma in Biochemistry

Memberships:
• Member (AT) of epi Biotechnology Committee
• Member of epi, German Patentanwaltskammer, VPP, LES, Network IP Austria

Lecturing Activities:
2008 – 2014: Lecturer in Patent and Intellectual Property Law at
• University of Applied Sciences Biberach
• University of Ulm
• University of Stuttgart

Language Skills:
German (native), English, French

director IP, imec vzw
legal
- European (2005)&Belgian (2006) patent attorney
- MaNaMa IPR 2006
- certified European patent litigator 2008
activities
- President of the general assembly of the Belgium
institute of patent attorneys
- board member AIPPI-BE
scientific
- master in electrical engineering 1991
- master in electronic engineering 1988

2023-present: epi Deputy Secretary General
2023-present member epi Litigation Commitee representing BE
2003-2023 - Chairwoman epi Biotech Committee - present presidium liaison epi Biotech Committee
2014-present: epi Council member representing BE
1990-1992 EPO Examiner
1990 PhD biotech
I am eager to support epi towards the future. I am active in private practice in BE as European and Belgian patent attorney and also registered as UPC representative.

I wish to continue representing the Belgian constituency and serving the Institute with the same commitment, energy, and determination I have demonstrated throughout my career. I remain dedicated to advancing epi’s objectives through active participation in both Council and committee work.

Most relevant past service in or for epi
• Council: Member since 2002; President 2017–23
• Committees: Member since 1991 (except 2017-23)
- Harmonisation Committee (1991–2008; Chairman
2000–08)
- EPPC Committee (2005–17; Chairman 2008-17)
- PCC and Nominations Committees (since 2023)
• SACEPO and Working Parties: various positions
since 2005
• EPAC Board: Member since 2022
Background and Qualifications
• PhD in Chemistry, University of Liège
• Diploma in Patent Litigation in Europe, University of
Strasbourg
• Certificate, Judicial Expert, University of Liège
• European and Belgian Patent Attorney
• UPC Representative
Professional Experience
• Over 30 years in industry, followed by 10 years in
private practice

Curriculum vitae
Claude Quintelier, citizen of Belgian nationality. He studied physics at the University of Nijmegen in The Netherlands. He is a qualified European, Belgian and Dutch patent attorney and registered as UPC representative. He started his career as patent attorney with N.V. Philips in 1980 in The Netherlands. At N.V. Philips he worked in the field of patents for Computer Implemented Inventions (CII). He joined Gevers, private practice, in Brussels in 1988 where he was managing director of the patent department. As from 2015 he is now in his own firm Koala s.r.l. in Brussels. He is also working for Office Kirkpatrick in La Hulpe. He is epi and CEIPI tutor and was treasurer of epi. He has been treasurer from the European Patent Institute (epi) from 2005 to 2014 and is now chair of the epi Finances Committee.

I am a qualified Dutch & European Patent Attorney as well as UPC Representative with a background in Biomedical Sciences and Pharmaceutics

I have worked both in-house and in private practice and try to be an ambassador for the profession by providing trainings, connecting at networking events and keeping myself up to date through attendance of events aimed at IP professionals. I am fluent in Dutch and English, and reasonably fluent in Japanese, French and German.

Work experience:
2018-2021: (Trainee) Patent Attorney in Pharma Team in NLO (NL)
2021-2024: Biologics Patent Counsel at Sanofi (Gent)
2025: Patent Attorney & Business Developer at IFORI (Gent)

Other relevant professional experience:
2014: Internship at TraskBritt in US
2022-2024: Speaker at Life Sciences Strategy Summit on IP & Exclusivity as well as Global Biologics, Cell and Gene Legal Summit

I am committed to representing the Belgian patent profession group as a whole, especially also the younger generation as well as the women in the patent profession who often are underrepresented.

About 25 years of IP Experience in research organisation, private practice and Corporate environments. Member of EPI Council (substitute)/PCC(Full) since 2014. Member of PCC/AI WG. Interested in contributing to activities that improve the EPA profession.

Ewan Van Minnebruggen – Belgium

I am honored to express my continued commitment to serving on the Council of the European Patent Institute (epi) for the upcoming 2026–2029 term.

1. epi Involvement:
Full Member of the epi Council (2023–2026)
Substitute Member of the epi Council (2020–2023)
Substitute Member of the Professional Conduct Committee

2. Education & Qualifications:
Master of Science in Industrial Engineering – Antwerp University
Master of IP Law and Management – University of Strasbourg
Diplomas in Patent Litigation and IP Business Administration – University of Strasbourg
Export Compliance International Master – EIFEC
European Patent Attorney, Belgian Patent Attorney, European Trademark Attorney
Representative before the Unified Patent Court

3. Professional Experience:
Over 22 years of experience in patent drafting, prosecution and enforcement in both private practice and industry. 15 years in global leadership roles in IP and trade compliance within industry.

4. Statement of Commitment:
I am committed to continuing my active contribution to the epi Council for the 2026–2029 term. With a strong foundation in IP law, international collaboration, and professional ethics, I aim to support the Institute’s mission and represent Belgian members with dedication and integrity.

Qualified in 2009, I go back already some time in EPI.
I have been involved in EPI previously as a substitute member of the Professional Conduct Committee and currently am a member of the Biotech Committee.
I am also a member of the Belgian Board of AIPPI and lead the Patent Workgroup dealing with the patent resolutions and questionnaires. In AIPPI international, I'm a member of the Standing Committee Biotech and an observer in the SC PVR and SC Pharma.
In Belgium, I am currently acting as Vice-President of the Institute of Patent Attorneys till the end of 2025.
I'm looking forward to my first steps in the Council as a substitute member.

Patent and Trademark Attorney of the Republic of Bulgaria (reg. No. 161, since 2002)
European Patent Attorney (EPO No. 0123960, since 2002)
European Trademark and Design Attorney (EU IPO No. 6889, since 2007)

Professional activity
Climate Atmosphere and Water Research Institute
Bulgarian Academy of Science
- Senior Assistant Professor: Sept 2025 - Present

Dr. Emil Benatov & Partners, Bulgaria
- Managing Partner: Jan 2017 – Present
- Patent Attorney: Apr 2002 – Present
- Patent Specialist: Dec 1999 – Apr 2002
- Paralegal: Dec 1997 – Dec 1999

epi activity
- Council member of epi from Bulgaria: 2014-2017, 2017-2020, 2020-2023
- Member of EPPC: 2014-2017
- Member of PCC: 2021-present


Education

European Patent Academy, European Patent Office
- „Train the Trainers“ program follow-up seminar, 2011
- „Train the Trainers“ program, 2009
- „Train the Trainers EPC2000“, 2006

Management & Law of Intellectual Property
Institute for postgraduate students at University of National and World Economy, Republic of Bulgaria, 1999-2001

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski
Palaeontology (Middle Triassic paleontology and stratigraphy), 1994 – 1998

Master's degree
Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski
Geology (Earth Science), 1989 – 1994

Working languages: Bulgarian, Russian, English

I am Mariya. I love to travel. I manage already 16 years a blog for culture, where I write for opera, ballet, cinema, books, traveling and share my experience.
On the professional side, I’m Chemical engineer (my master degree is Industrial Chemistry), have a professional qualification in Patent law and a PhD on Organic Chemistry.
In total I have 18 years experience in patent rights protection at different levels, 10 of which in the pharmaceutical industry (Sopharma Pharmaceuticals and Actavis/Teva). Last 2 years I worked in-house for the company specialized in material sciences, Umicore in Belgium. I also worked as a freelancer in private practice for almost 6 years.
I am fluent in English and French, two of the official EPO languages. I speak Italian and I use Spanish and Russian. I also have basic knowledge of Dutch and German.
I am also Bulgarian Patent Representative.

My work at Epi for the term 2023-2026
European Patent Practice Committee (EPPC) - Full member
EPPC Technological group Pharma – Full member
EPPC WG Guidelines
Professional Education Committee (PEC) - Full member
PEC “Education of professional representatives’ staff” subcommittee
PEC “EQE” subcommittee

Curriculum vitae format
Milena Lyubenova Georgieva – Tabakova
Work experience
Dates (from – to)/ Name and address of employer/ Occupation or position held
 05. 1980 to 01. 05. 1982/ Sofia, Bulgaria, City Court of Sofia/ Assistant Judge
 01. 01. 1982 to 01. 06. 1984/ Sofia, Bulgaria, Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry/ Legal Advisor in the legal department of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
 01. 06. 1984 to 01. 05. 1991/ Sofia, Bulgaria, Ministry of Foreign Affairs/ Legal advisor in the legal and treaty department, Section international private and commercial law
 01. 05. 1991 to 01. 02. 1992/ Sofia, Bulgaria, Ministry of Foreign Affairs/ General Legal Counsel
 01. 02. 1992 to 31. 12. 1992/ Sofia, Bulgaria, Council of Ministers/ Counsel to the Prime Minister of Republic of Bulgaria
 01. 01. 1993 – 01. 04. 1997/ Sofia, Bulgaria, Interlex Consult Ltd./ Managing partner
 01. 04. 1997 to 26. 04. 1997/ Sofia, Bulgaria, Ministry of Foreign Affairs/ Head of the Legal Department
 24. 06. 1997 to 01. 04. 2000/ Sofia, Bulgaria, Ministry of Foreign Affairs/ Chief of the Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
 01. 04. 2000 up to date/ Sofia, Bulgaria, Interlex Consult Ltd./ Partner
 2003 up to date/ Member of Sofia Bar Association
 2014 up to date/ Tabakov, Tabakova& Partners Law Firm/ Managing Partner
 07. 04. 2001 up 2021/ President of the Association of the Industrial property representatives
 2011 up to date/ Arbitrator / Arbitration Court of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry/ Arbitrator

Qualifications:
European Patent Attorney
European Trademark and Design attorney
Bulgarian Patent, Trademark and Design attorney
Licensed Appraiser of Intellectual Property

Working in company: Dr. Emil Benatov & Partners, Bulgaria

epi activity:
- Member of PCC
- Member of Working group "Use of AI"

Certificates:
WIPO Academy Certificate in Arbitration and Mediation Procedure under the WIPO rules
WIPO Academy Certificate in Intellectual Property Management

Education: Master in Intellectual Property and Business University of National and World Economy, Bulgaria

Working Languages: Bulgarian, English, German

OLGA SIRAKOVA

Address
Interius
Gen. St. Atanassov Str. No. 5
Sofia 1113
Bulgaria

Job Experience
1981 – 1993 Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry – lawyer at the Patent and Trademark Bureau of the Chamber
since 1993 Interius – partner
since 1993 Attorney at Law
since 1993 Patent and Trademark Attorney
since 2007 European Patent Attorney
since 2007 European Trademark and Design Attorney

International non-governmental organizations

AIPPI
2003 - 2007 and 2010 - 2012 President of the Bulgarian National Group of AIPPI
2006 - 2010 Member of the Nominating Committee of AIPPI
2010 - 2014 Chairperson of the Nominating Committee of AIPPI
2014 - 2019 Bureau member of AIPPI
2017 - 2019 Secretary General of AIPPI
since 2020 Member of Honor

ECTA
2010 - 2018 Member of the Anti-Counterfeiting Committee of ECTA
2010 - 2018 Council Member
since 2020 Member of the Law Committee of ECTA

epi
since 2020 Full Council member
2020-2021 Member of Professional Conduct Committee of epi
2021-2023 Secretary General of epi
since 2021 Member of the Working Group on Diversity and Inclusion
since 2020 Substitute member of the Litigation Committee

INTA
since 1993 Member

Education
1971 - 1976 English Language School – Sofia
1976 - 1980 Sofia University – Law Faculty
since 1991 Ph.D. in Law

Language skills

Bulgarian native
English fluent
Russian advanced
German intermediate

M.Sc. Konstantin Tahtadjiev

Practice and Professional Experience

-Graduated from Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski” with a B.Sc. degree in Applied Mathematics and a Master’s degree in Protection of Information in Computer Systems and Networks.

-Joined the IP agency K TAHTADJIEV in 2007, focusing primarily on the preparation, filing, and prosecution of Bulgarian patent and utility model applications, PCT applications, European patent applications, European patent validations, as well as patent searches and strategies.

-Subsequently qualified and was entered in the official list as a Bulgarian Patent, Trademark and Design Attorney before the Bulgarian Patent Office (BPO).

-Gained extensive experience in all aspects of trademark and design practice, including filing, prosecution, opposition, maintenance, searches, infringement, enforcement, and strategic advice before the Bulgarian Patent Office, EUIPO, and WIPO.

-In 2018, successfully passed all European Qualifying Examination (EQE) papers at the first attempt and qualified as a European Patent Attorney before the European Patent Office (EPO).

Membership in International Organisations

-Member of the International Association for the Protection of Intellectual Property (AIPPI) since 2018

-Member of the Institute of Professional Representatives before the European Patent Office (EPI) – substitute member (2020–2023), full member (2023–2026)

Qualifications

-European Patent Attorney (EQE qualified)

-Bulgarian Patent, Trademark and Design Attorney

-European Trademark and Design Attorney

Education

-Master’s degree in Protection of Information in Computer Systems and Networks, Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”

-Bachelor’s degree in Applied Mathematics, Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”

-IT Engineer – CISCO Academy

-EUIPO’s European Trade Mark and Design Education Programme (ETMD)

Languages

- Bulgarian
- English

Qualifications:
•EQE qualified European Patent Attorney since 2017
•Certified Intellectual Property Appraiser since 2018
•Bulgarian Patent Attorney since 2007
•Bulgarian Trademark Attorney since 2014

Work:
Intellectual Property Attorney at SAP

EPI 2023-2026:
Council member
Disciplinary Committee

Currently president of VIPS/ACBIS
Since 2020 engaged in IPCC of epi
Former Head of IP in Schindler Ltd.
President of IP commission of Swissmem
Processing Engineer, Patent Attorney since 1990

Education:
Dipl.-Ing. Mechanical Engineering, RWTH Aachen University, Germany

Admissions:
European Patent Attorney

Working Experience:
2014-2023: IP law firms in Liechtenstein and Switzerland
since 2023: Representative for China Sinda Intellectual Property Ltd.

Dear epi members and colleagues. I am running for election on a platform that champions diversity, inclusion, and representation. My goal is to ensure that every voice is heard and every community is represented. If there are female candidates on the ballot, I recommend voting for them, so that together we can work on closing the gender gap in our profession.

Regarding my experience, I have worked in five in-house departments and two law firms. I served as CEIPI tutor and EQE marker, and I have supported many candidates trying to enter our profession. I hold PhD (EPFL) and LLM degree.

Many thanks for your consideration. Please vote, because every vote counts.
Best,
Dragan

2015 - Today Chair/Deputy Chair EQE Examination Board
2014 - Today Chair of EQE EC1
2007- Today Head Patents & Licensing Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research Basel

2006-2007 Patent Attorney Novartis Basel
2000-2006 Patent Examiner EPO
1998 PhD in Cellular Biology

Since 2023 IP Counsel / European and Swiss Patent Attorney at METTLER TOLEDO
Since 2025 Board member of VIPS/ACBIS

Diploma in Physics and PhD in Material Science
European and Swiss Patent Attorney at Frei Patentanwaltsbüro AG
Patent Attorney Trainee at Frei Patentanwaltsbüro AG
Process Engineer and Product Engineer in the optical industry
Born 25.07.1978 in Chur, Switzerland

2013 PhD in Chemistry
2012-2014 Teacher in Chemistry
2014-2017 Patent Attorney Trainee at Hepp Wenger Ryffel AG
2018-2020 Patent Engineer , Industry/Inhouse
since 2021 European and Swiss Patent Attorney at Hepp Wenger Ryffel AG
since 2023 Substitute Member of the epi council for Switzerland

Board member of VIPS
Substitute member of the epi Council 2020-2026

Qualifications:
aerospace engineer, Stuttgart University
Doctor in Mechanical Engineering, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 1996
European Patent Attorney
Swiss Patent Attorney
Patent litigation in Europe, CEIPI

Experience:
Worked in research and development in industry: Mitsubishi, Hitachi, MAN, ABB and Alstom
Moved to the intellectual property department of Alstom in 2007
Senior counsel – Patent Counsel for GE Vernova

I joined the profession in 2004 and qualified as European Patent Attorney in 2008. Before that, I got my MSc in Communication Systems from the EPFL and Institut Eurécom (2003) and MAS in IP Law from the ETH (2004). Later, while already working as a patent attorney, I studied law and got my MLaw degree in 2018 and I also registered as UPC representative.

I have always worked in private practice, with BOVARD (Berne, Biel/Bienne, Neuchâtel) and, after acquisition of the firm, also with BRAUNPAT (Basel), since 2013 as CEO.

I have been member of epi Council since 2017 (2017 to 2020 as a substitute member and since then as a full member). I am also Swiss representative and Secretary of the Professional Education Committee and Co-Chair of the ICT techological group of the European Patent Practice Committee.

Many of my activities are concerned with education. In addition to PEC, I am member of the Examination Committee II of the EQE and of the Examination Commission for the Swiss patent attorneys' exam. I am also CEIPI tutor and lecturer at the IGE's preparatory course for the Swiss patent attorneys' exam.

German, French and English are languages that I use actively on a daily basis.

I would be glad to be able to continue to represent the interests of Swiss epi members in the epi Council and contribute to the further development of our profession to the benefit of all European Patent Attorneys.

I have been active in IP since 2001, qualified in 2006 as EPA and in 2023 as UPC representative.

So why should you vote for me?

When it comes to epi Council elections, Switzerland forms a so called non-unitary constituency, meaning that European patent attorneys working in private practice and in "other capacity" (i.e. in-house and/or in industry) each assemble into one of two disjoint, respective groups, with each group nominating their own candidates and electing their council members from the former. To be able to optimally represent the interests of their group, I believe it is essential that Council members from each group have profound professional experience in relation to working in the respective capacity.

I started my career in IP in 2001 as an in-house patent attorney candidate with ABB. In 2009, while working in-house for Kulicke & Soffa, I was given the opportunity to establish my own IP law firm from scratch in parallel to my employment, which I gratefully took on - and which led me to proceed to working fully self-employed in 2011, to joining forces with two partners in 2016, and with a few more in the years since then. As such, I had the excitement, pleasure and frustration of getting first-hand experiences in all the challenges, ups and downs of working in AND running a private practice. I am confident that I can contribute these experiences to the benefit of our constituency, and will be very happy to do so.


Why should you not vote for anyone else?

You should! After all, you have 6 votes – and unlike at home, you cannot even cumulate ...


I thank everybody who followed me this far. Should you really be inclined to proceed, you will find some unimaginative details below:


Professional career:

since 2016: Patent Attorney and Partner at freigutpartners IP Law Firm, Zurich
since 2009: Patent Attorney at freigutpartners llc (formerly everything IP llc)
2007-2009: In-house counsel at Kulicke & Soffa Die Bonding Gmbh, Berg, TG
2004-2007: Patent and Litigation Management at Pelikan Hardcopy, Egg, ZH
2001-2004: Patent Attorney trainee with ABB Switzerland, Baden, AG


Qualifications:

2024: UPC Representative
2014: Patent Agent (DE)
2011: Patent Attorney (CH)
2006: European Patent Attorney
2004: ETH Zurich: MAS in Intellectual Property
1999: ETH Zurich: PhD in Electrical Engineering


Membership in professional societies:

epi Professional Conduct Committee: (full) member since 2017 (2023)
epi Litigation Committee: substitute member since 2017
EPO Finances Committee: substitute member since 2024
epi council: substitute member 2017-23

Michael Liebetanz
Baar, Switzerland
+41 76 390 13 09
[email protected]

Born 13.09.1960 in Bad Godesberg (Federal Republic of Germany)
Languages: German; French; English

1979 – 1987 Studied Physics in Bonn; Germany, and Toulouse, France, Licence-ès-sciences from University Paul-Sabatier (1983) and Diploma in Physics from Rheinisch-Westfälischer Friedrich- Wilhelms University (1987)

1988 – 1990 Patent Attorney trainee with a patent law firm in Freiburg, Germany

1990 – 1991 Trainee with the German Patent Office, the Federal Patent Court in Munich and the Regional Court (Landgericht) Mannheim.

1991 – 1997 German Patent Attorney in Freiburg, Germany Since 1992 European Patent Attorney

1997 – 2025 Patent attorney with Isler & Pedrazzini AG

1999 – 2015 Team leader of the patent department

2016 – 2020 Managing Partner of Isler & Pedrazzini AG

1998 – 2009 Member of the Examination Committee III for the European Qualifying Exam (eqe of EPO)

2005 – 2011 Substitute member of the epi council for Switzerland

2005 – 2014 Substitute member of the epi Professional Qualification Committee

2008 – 2011 Member of the epi Disciplinary Committee

2011 – 2014 Deputy Secretary General of epi

2011 – 2017 Member of the Board of epi for Switzerland

2011 – Member of the epi council for Switzerland

2014 – 2020 Member of the epi EPO Finances Committee

2016 – Member of the eSACEPO 2017 – Member of the Supervisory Board of the EQE (2017-2018 Subsitute, 2023-2026 Chair)

2020 – 2023 Member of the Digital Support Group (joint epi EPO group working on the eEQE 2021 and the format of the new eEQE)

2022 – Member of the epi By-Laws Committee

Paul ROSENICH, Triesenberg/LI and Buchs/SG; [email protected]

I volunteer to support the Swiss delegation and hence the Swiss European Patent Attorneys in the epi Council with my long-standing experience as patent specialist in industry and private practice. I strive for a well-functioning, less bureaucratic and more applicant friendly system before the EPO that safeguards the rights of inventors and patent applicants. I also stand for fostering the reputation of our international profession as European Patent Attorneys. Particular skills to be used in epi Council I have gained in my long-standing function as Chairperson of the epi Disciplinary Committee and as tutor for epi- Candidates.

Professional background auf Paul Rosenich: He is CH + LI Patentanwalt and European Patent and Trademark Attorney, European Patent Litigator, he is a graduate in Electrical Engineering (1976) and holds a Bsc in Opto-electronics (1990) and an LLM (CEIPI University of Strasbourg) in IP Management and Law (2007). Before moving to private practice (1987) he was employed in patent and trade mark departments of different Industries (electrical, tire & rubber, ski bindings) and worked as an independent IP searcher in Austria and Germany. He passed the European Qualifying Examination, joined a two months practitioner training at the EPO in Munich. He specialises in optical and electrical engineering, fine mechanics and micromechanics, technology transfer and patent searches.

He is a WIPO Mediator for IP related problem resolution.
Since 1993 he lectured European Patent Law at the University Strasbourg (CEIPI) and at other places and other course providers. 1998 he founded the IP-law firm PPR AG, in Triesenberg/LI and Buchs/SG/CH. He is Vice-President of the Admissions Commission of UNION-IP, Deputy Treasurer of I3PM International Institute for Intellectual Property Management, Founding Member of LIPAV and since about 20 years elected Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee of European Patent Institute.

European Patent Attorney
Swiss Patent Attorney (grandfather clause)
Representative at the UPC

2000-2003 Trainee Patents department of Nestlé
2003 Passing the EQE
2003-2005 Patent department Firmenich
Since 2006: In private practice, as a freelance in 2009, founding an association in 2012 and co-founding different IP firms (IP Partners, Omnis IP and Léman IP), before turning back to the established firm ABREMA in 2025.

With over 25 years of professional experience, including 20 years in private practice, I have been fortunate to engage with nearly every aspect of intellectual property and, with regard to patents, across a wide range of diverse technological fields. Originally from Basel and a graduate of the IP MAS (post-diploma program) at the ETH Zurich, I have spent my entire professional career in the Romandie. With this background, I believe to portray the multilingual and multicultural nature that is characteristic of both, Switzerland and Europe.

If I am elected as full Council member for the term 2026-2029, I intend to be candidate to continue serving as epi President with a great Board team for a second term.

Short Curriculum Vitae of Peter R. Thomsen
Education:
• Diploma in Biotechnology from TU Braunschweig, Germany
• Post-graduate Study Intellectual Property ETH Zürich, Switzerland
• Post graduate Diploma in European Patent litigation by CEIPI/University of Strasbourg
• EQE2004
• since 2023: UPC Representative
Working history
• Worked 2001-2024 at IP-Department of Novartis in Basel/Switzerland in several functions, being involved in drafting, prosecution and opposition/litigation since 2008 increasingly focusing on IP-policy, strategy and litigation questions
• Since Sep 2025 independent IP-Consultant at own company ATExIPS GmbH
Work in associations, particularly epi:
• Since 2007 member of various professional and industry IP groups, e.g. the IP Expert Group of economiesuisse, Board member of the Association of Swiss Patent attorneys working in industry (VIPS), IP and Trade Committee of the IFPMA (International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association)
• 2008-2011 substitute epi Council member for CH and since 2011 full Council member
• 2007-2023 CH member of epi Litigation Committee, from 2011-2017 as secretary, from 2017-2023 as chair
• 2014-2023 Treasurer of epi
• 2023 until now: President of epi
• 2016-2024 chairman of the IP-Expert Group of Swiss industry association économiesuisse, dealing with all IP rights for all Swiss industry sectors
• 2016-2024 member IP Commission of International Chamber of Commerce (ICC)
• 2017-2023: member of BusinessEurope Patent WG
• Since 2019: member of the Examination Board for the Swiss national Patent Attorney exam, 2021-2022 and since Apr 2025 its President

Despite being a long-standing, well experienced IP practitioner, I still feel motivated and experienced enough to be part of the epi council, from which I have taken a lot of benefits over the last decades. Thus, this is my way to give back something into the IP system of Europe.

My many years of practical experience in the field of intellectual property law: I have been working in the field of patents, designs and trademarks since 1987 (consulting, drafting applications, conducting registration procedures (CH, EP and internationally in many countries), opposition and appeal proceedings (EPO), administration of intellectual property rights (IP portfolio management, maintenance, rewriting and register changes), searches, monitoring, infringement assessments, support in Negotiations and court proceedings). Most of this time, I have spent in one office, starting as a trainee and ending as a managing partner. In autumn 2024 I reopened again a small IP firm and feel very motivated to start again from the bottom with a promising perspective.

I am Swiss and European Patent Attorney: European admission after passing the examination since 1995) and registered in the Swiss Patent Attorney Register (grand-father clause).

I have court experience before the Swiss Federal Patent Court: as representative and as part-time judge (since 2010)

My national and international professional network: Member of the Swiss professional associations VSP (President from 2005 – 2020, President of the Court of the Association since 2011), VESPA, FICPI (leading the Finance Group of the PMC (Practice Management Committee)), UNION-IP (Member of the Board as Treasurer since 2015), AIPPI, epi.

2023-present: epi Substitute Council Member
2023-present: Innovation IP Counsel - HARTING International Innovation AG, Biel
2021-2023: Private practice (P&TS Neuchâtel/Zürich)
2011-2021: Engineering and Patent Manager in industry
2011: Electrical and Systems Engineering

Previous President of Irish Association of Patent and Trade Mark Attorneys, now resident in Cyprus. Member of PCC.

Born in 1987, Austrian national. M.Sc., PhD in Biochemistry, studied in Germany.

European Patent Attorney, German patent assessor. Practicing patent law in various technical fields, mainly on the prosecution side.

Currently enrolled in the Hagen EPLC course to get fit for litigation before the UPC.

Enjoying life in Cyprus since 2022. Practicing via GOLSER IP LTD. For questions and contact info please consult patent.cy.

I am the Head of the Intellectual Property Law Department at George L. Savvides & Co LLC, where I deal with all aspects of intellectual property law, including patents (both contentious and non-contentious business ) .

I am a member of the Cyprus Bar Association and have been practising law in Cyprus for thirty years.

I have been a member of the EPI since 1999 and currently serve as a Council member and a member of the EPI Disciplinary Committee.

Graduated in Technical University CVUT Prag 1974
Specialization: internal combustion engines and motor vehicles
Practice 1974-1990 in Aircraft Industry, Textile machinery Industry, Automotive Industry
Private practice FISCHER IP s.r.o. since 1990
European Patent Attorney 123150 since the accession of the Czech Republic
Member of Disciplinary Committee since 2010

I work in a private practice located in Prague, my technical background is in inorganic chemistry. In 2021 I qualified as a European Patent Attorney and for the last three years I have represented The Czech Republic in the epi Council, and have been a member of the European Patent Practice Committee of epi.

Curriculum Vittae
Michal Guttmann (Dipl. Ing. Chem. (1968-1973 Slovak Technical University), Dr. Jur. 1977-1983 Comenius University Bratislava) was a senior partner at Rott Ruzicka and Guttmann, patent, trademark and law office in Praha (from 1992 to 2019). He was Vice-President of the Chamber of Patent Attorneys of the Czech Republic (1998-2001, 2004-2019). He was Past Vice-President of the Czechoslovak Patent Office in Prague and the Chairman of the examination committee for Patent Attorneys (1990-1992). Formerly long time patent examiner in the field of organic and pharmaceutical chemistry of the Patent Office in Prague and Head of the Patent Division at the Slovak Academy of Sciences in Bratislava. At present I am cosultant at HG Patent Law firm Prague & Bratislava.

I am Czech (from 1992) & European (from 2002) Patent Attorney and I was Attorney at Law in the Czech Republic (1993-2019) as well as in the Slovak Republic (1992-2018).

I completed European Patent Office training course for managing lawyers in Munich in 1991 and studying at C.E.I.P.I. of University R. Schuman in Strassbourg (1992-1994).

I am the co-author of the CS Patent Act (1990) and Utility Model Law (1991) and co-author of Czech and Slovakian chapters in Katzarov´s Manual of Industrial Property.
I was lecturer of Patent Law and Practice at the Institute of Industrial Property of the Patent Office (1976-1992).
I am member of AIPPI, FICPI (1994-2022), and epi (from 2002). I specialize in intellectual property rights and litigation especially in chemistry and pharmacy.

I have 51 years practice in patent proceedings and patent litigation matters, due to my technical background in chemistry and complete legal background. In my capacity as the Vice-president of the Czech Chamber of Patent attorneys I was responsible for the legislation and therefore I am serving as an advisor and informant regarding the EPO and the epi legal information and problems.
As it is clear from my Curriculum I am familiar with the Examination system of Patent Offices due to my practice as Examiner, as a member of 1st and 2nd instance at the CS Patent Office, Czech and European Patent Attorney as well as Attorney at Law. Therefore I can evaluate practical and legal impact of proposed provisions.
I was member of the epi Council 1993-2022 continuously, a substitute Council member 2022-2025, and member epi Litigation committee 2008-2020 (sub-delegate 2020-2023) and epi Board member 2014-2017.

2012 - qualified as European Patent Attorney
2012 - present: epi Tutor
2012 - 2019: epi Coach in Candidate Support Project
2014 - present: member of Professional Education Committee representing CZ
2020 - present: member of Biotech Committee representing CZ
2020 - present: member of epi Council representing
CZ 2023 - present: epi Vice-President.
I work in a private practice located in Prague and Mlada Boleslav, mainly serving clients from academia and SMEs. My technical background is in chemistry.

I have been an attorney before the EPO since 2002. I work in private practice in Brno. My technical background is mechanical engineering.

I am attorney before EPO since 2002. I have long experience in preparing and filing EP applications. I am partner in Patent and Trademark agency Kania, Sedlak, Smola, s.r.o. seated in Brno.

Eupropean patent attorney from 2005.

I have been involved in European patent attorney work since 2016 and became EQE qualified in 2022.

Currently I have my own private practise with focus on IP and R&D advisory, connecting these two very different worlds altogether.

Before 2016 held variety of positions within R&D from an Engineer up to VP of Engineering for a large American company. During my R&D times I became an inventor of multiple inventions, which triggered my ultimate interest in patents and IP as a whole.

Maria Claudia B A Souza is a European and Brazilian Patent Attorney with over fifteen years of professional experience in intellectual property, focusing on patent prosecution, IP strategy, and legal consultancy in the fields of chemistry, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology.

She studied Pharmaceutical Sciences and holds a Master’s degree in Chemistry from the Federal Fluminense University (Brazil), including guest research at the University of Hamburg in organic synthesis.

Her professional background includes more than twelve years of practice at Kasznar Leonardos IP (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) and, since 2020, work as Intellectual Property Engineer (and now as EP Patent Attorney) at Weidner Stern Jeschke Patentanwälte mbB in Germany.

She regularly advises clients from Europe, the Americas, and Asia, coordinating international patent portfolios.

Maria Claudia is fluent in English, German, Portuguese, and Spanish and actively contributes to cross-border collaboration between European and Latin American IP practitioners.

Kurzbiografie:
Patentanwältin seit: 2014
Zugelassene Vertreterin vor dem Europäischen Patentamt (epi): seit 2015
Kanzlei: Eisenführ Speiser
Kanzleisitz: München

Beruflicher Werdegang:
Studium der Technischen Biologie an der Technischen Universität München (TUM) mit Schwerpunkt Proteinchemie – Promotion in der Immunologie.
Langjährige Tätigkeit im Bereich Biotechnologie, Life Sciences und Pharma.
Partnerin bei Eisenführ Speiser, einer gemischt tätigen Sozietät von Patentanwälten und Rechtsanwälten.
Associate Member im Biotechnology Committee des epi.

Motivation:
Das Engagement für den Berufsstand der beim epi zugelassenen Vertreterinnen und Vertreter ist von zentraler Bedeutung, insbesondere in einer Zeit, in der sich das europäische Patentsystem durch das Zusammenspiel von EPA und UPC stark verändert.
Zukünftig wird es entscheidend sein, den Crosstalk zwischen EPA und UPC auf sachlich-rechtlich fundierter Ebene zu führen und aktiv zu gestalten.

Neben der täglichen Arbeit in der Akte ist das berufspolitische Engagement im epi für mich ein wesentlicher Bestandteil verantwortungsvoller Berufsausübung. Die Arbeit im Rat bietet die Möglichkeit, fachlich und strukturell Einfluss zu nehmen und so den Beruf weiterzuentwickeln – praxisnah, transparent und im Sinne der (zukünftigen) Berufsträger.

Je mehr unterschiedliche Perspektiven und Erfahrungen in den Rat engagiert eingebracht werden, desto zukunftsfester kann der Rat mitgestalten.
Ich danke Ihnen und Euch sehr für Ihre / Eure Stimme!

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Short Biography:
European Patent Attorney since: 2015
German Patent Attorney since: 2014
Firm: Eisenführ Speiser
Office: Munich

Professional Background:
Studied Technical Biology at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) with a focus on protein chemistry – PhD in immunology.
Many years of professional experience in biotechnology, life sciences and pharmaceuticals.
Partner at Eisenführ Speiser, a mixed firm of patent attorneys and attorneys-at-law.
Associate Member of the epi Biotechnology Committee.

Motivation:
Active engagement for the profession of epi-registered representatives is of central importance, particularly at a time when the European patent system is evolving through the interaction between the EPO and the UPC.
In the coming years, it will be essential to promote and maintain the crosstalk between the EPO and the UPC on a sound legal and technical basis.

Beyond daily case work, commitment within the epi is an essential part of responsible professional practice.
Serving on the Council provides the opportunity to contribute to the further development of our profession – in a practical, transparent and forward-looking manner, for the benefit of both current and future practitioners.

The more diverse perspectives and experiences are actively brought into the Council, the more effectively it can shape the future of our profession.
Many thanks for your support and your vote!

1994: Diplom in Physik an der Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, München

1998: Promotion an der EPFL, Physik Department, Lausanne, Schweiz

2003: Zulassung als Patentanwalt und European Patent Attorney

Seit 2003: Partner bei Boehmert & Boehmert in München,

seitdem als freier Patentanwalt überwiegend in der Beratung und für den Aufbau von Patentportfolios für inländische und ausländische Mandanten tätig. Betreuer von Patentanwaltskandidaten bei der dt. Patentanwaltskammer

Seit 2019: EPI-Ratsmitglied

Motivation: Weiterentwicklung des Europäischen Patentrechts, Ausbildung von Patentanwaltskandidaten beim DPMA und EPA, Vertretung der Interessen insbesondere der deutschen EPI-Mitglieder beim EPI, Weiterentwicklung des Berufs des Europäischen Patentanwalts angesichts neuer Herausforderungen durch die Digitalisierung

1994: Diploma in physics at the Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich

1998: PhD at EPFL, Physics Department, Lausanne, Switzerland

2003: Admission as Patent Attorney and European Patent Attorney

since then, he has been working as a patent attorney in private practice, mainly in the field of consulting and building patent portfolios for domestic and foreign clients.

Supervisor of patent attorney candidates at the German Chamber of Patent Attorneys

EPI Council Member since 2019

Motivation: Further development of European patent law, training of patent attorney candidates at the DPMA and EPO, representation of the interests of German EPI members in particular at the EPI, further development of the profession of European patent attorney in view of new challenges posed by digitalization

Thorsten Hummel is a qualified European and German Patent Attorney with experience in intellectual property since 2020. He holds a doctorate in chemistry from the University of Tübingen, where he specialized in inorganic chemistry and materials science.

His career spans both private practice and in-house roles. After working at patent law firms in North Rhine-Westphalia and Hamburg, he now serves as an in-house patent attorney at Essity, advising on strategic IP matters, overseeing prosecution, and managing international portfolios.

As a recently qualified European Patent Attorney, he is committed to contributing to the profession’s evolution, strengthening the voice of German patent attorneys within the epi, and actively supporting the development of the European patent system.

Veronique Kremer
Senior Director and Associate General Counsel
Legal Patent at The Procter&Gamble Company
Global Braun, Global Design,
Baby, Feminine and Beauty&Hair Care Europe and Asia.


________________________________________
Professional Summary
Dynamic patent attorney with over 30 years of experience in building and leading international, diverse teams of IP professionals. Demonstrated expertise in global and regional European and Asian IP practices, with a clear focus on IP strategy and the commercial relevance of IP rights. Proven track record in IP portfolio management, freedom to operate assessments, and providing business-related IP guidance. Strong interpersonal and intercultural skills complemented by experience in lean management, process optimization, budget management, and law firm management.
________________________________________
Professional Experience
Procter & Gamble (P&G)
Global Patent Leadership Roles
Various across several Locations (Germany, Singapore, Japan)
• Since May 2023: Further expanded role to lead the patent attorney team located in Singapore and Japan, enhancing patent skills and cultural reach beyond Europe.
• Since March 2023: Took on additional leadership for end-to-end patent-related needs for Global Braun and assumed leadership for the P&G Center of Excellence for Global Design across all Business Units.
• Since January 2020: Expanded role to Legal Innovation Lead for Asia Baby Care&Feminine Care Business Unit, driving innovation in legal processes and strategies.
• March 2016 – December 2019: further expanded role to add talent covering Beauty&Hair Care Business Units, thereby managed a team of above 20 IP professionals, including 8 European patent attorneys.
• January 2006 – March 2016: Expanded responsibilities to assume Patent Legal Innovation lead for EMEA Baby Care, Feminine Care, and Family Care Business Units, overseeing a team of 7 European patent attorneys and 4 legal professionals, including cross-border reporting in Europe (Italy and Geneva).
• July 2003 – December 2005: Appointed EMEA Patent Leader for Feminine Care Business Unit, managing a team of 3 patent attorneys and 2 legal professionals, with remote reporting responsibilities.
• Summer 1998: Transferred from Belgium to Germany, Schwalbach am Taunus, to take ownership of EMEA patent responsibilities for Beverage/Coffee portfolio and gradually assumed additional responsibilities for Feminine Care product lines as Senior Patent Attorney.
• September 1992 – June 1998: Joined P&G in Brussels as a patent attorney responsible for EMEA patent matters in Home Care and Pharmaceutical IP docket management.
________________________________________
Education

European Patent Attorney (EQE) in 1997.
CEIPI (French IP School) in 1992.
Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm. D) in 1991.
DESS in Pharmaceutical Industry
________________________________________
Professional Affiliations
• Elected as full member for German EPI council since 2017.
• Members of VCI patent section, VPP…
________________________________________
Skills
• IP Strategy Development
• Patent Portfolio Management
• Enforcement and Licensing
• Intercultural Communication
• Team Leadership and Development
• Lean Management and Process Improvement
• Budget Management
________________________________________
Languages
• French, English, German
________________________________________

Kurzbiografie
Patentanwalt, European Patent Attorney und zugelassener Vertreter vor dem Einheitlichen Patentgericht (UPC).
Seit über 20 Jahren im IP-Management bei Löwenstein Medical (Medizintechnikindustrie) tätig.
Seit mehr als 20 Jahren Mitglied in den IP-Ausschüssen der Handelskammer Hamburg.
Mitglied der Bundes- und Landesfachkommission Gesundheitswirtschaft im Wirtschaftsrat der CDU e.V.
________________________________________
Motivation
Seit 2017 engagiere ich mich als gewähltes Mitglied im epi-Rat.
Seit 2022 bin ich Vorsitzender des Ausschusses für Ausschusswahlen und habe gemeinsam mit meinen Kolleginnen und Kollegen die Digitalisierung der Wahlen zu den epi-Ausschüssen erfolgreich eingeführt und weiterentwickelt.

Ich bringe meine Erfahrungen als Syndikuspatentanwalt und Leiter eines Teams von zehn IP-Professionals in der Medizintechnikindustrie ebenso ein wie meine Tätigkeit als Impulsgeber und Interessenvertreter der Gesundheitswirtschaft. Diese Perspektiven aus anwaltlicher Praxis, Management und Politik fließen unmittelbar in meine Ratsarbeit ein.
Mein Ziel ist es, die Stimme der über 5.000 deutschen European Patent Attorneys im epi nachhaltig zu stärken.

Ich würde mich freuen, meine Arbeit im Rat fortzusetzen, und danke Ihnen herzlich für Ihr Vertrauen.

As a German and European Patent Attorney in private practice, I am committed to ensuring that the voices and interests of German Patent Attorneys are actively represented within the epi. Our profession faces evolving challenges, and it is essential that the Council reflects the perspectives of practitioners who work directly with clients, industry, and innovation on a daily basis.
In my current role as a substitute member of the Council, I have been an active contributor to the German delegation, supporting its work with dedication and teamwork. I also serve on the board of the BDPA – the Association of German Patent Attorneys, where I advocate for professional standards, fairness, and meritocracy—principles I believe should guide our work within the epi.
This also includes and does not contradict that we do strive keeping the standards and entry level of our profession at high standard.
With over 18 years of experience in IP strategy and leadership, I bring a strong foundation in both legal expertise and collaborative governance. I am passionate about strengthening the role of private practice attorneys in shaping the future of our profession and ensuring that our contributions are recognized and valued.
Thank you for considering my nomination.
Sincerely,
Dr. Christian A. Mohr

Kurzbiografie
Patentanwalt seit dem Jahr 2000, mit einem Hintergrund im Maschinenbau (Dipl.-Ing.) und einem postgradualen Studium der Rechtswissenschaften (LL.M.), und Kanzleisitz in München.
Seit 2023 technisch qualifizierter Richter (Fachgebiet Physik) am Einheitlichen Patentgericht (UPC).
Mitglied des Ausschusses für epi-Finanzen und stellvertretender Vorsitzender des Ausschusses für EPA-Finanzen.
Mitglied des Vorstands der Patentanwaltskammer (PAK) sowie seit 2020 Vollmitglied des Rats des epi.

Motivation
Seit 2020 arbeite ich im epi-Rat daran, die Zusammenarbeit zwischen epi, dem EPA und der Patentanwaltskammer (PAK) zu vertiefen. Mein Schwerpunkt liegt auf Transparenz, Effizienz und kollegialem Dialog – Grundlagen für eine moderne und verlässliche Berufsausübung.

Ich bringe die Erfahrungen aus meiner richterlichen Tätigkeit am UPC und aus der anwaltlichen Praxis in Patentsachen in die Ratsarbeit ein. Dabei setze ich mich für eine sachorientierte, digital unterstützte und effiziente Weiterentwicklung unseres Berufs ein. Ziel ist es, das epi als handlungsfähige und zukunftsgerichtete Vertretung seiner Mitglieder weiter zu stärken.

Ich würde mich freuen, meine Arbeit im Rat fortzusetzen, und danke Ihnen herzlich für Ihr Vertrauen.

KURZLEBENSLAUF:
seit 2011: Patentanwältin in der Kanzlei Epping Hermann Fischer in München
2011: Zulassung als European Patent Attorney und als deutsche Patentanwältin
2007: Promotion in Physik (Dr. rer. nat.)
2000: Erstes Staatsexamen für das Lehramt an Gymnasien in Physik und Mathematik, LMU München

ENGAGEMENT FÜR UNSEREN BERUFSSTAND:
seit 2023: Mitglied des epi-Rats
seit 2023: Vorsitzende des Ausschusses für Standesrecht beim epi (PCC)
seit 2022: Mitglied des Ausschusses für Patent- und Gebrauchsmusterrechts bei der Patentanwaltskammer
seit 2020: aktives Engagement in verschiedenen Ausschüssen beim epi (Europäische Patentpraxis (EPPC), Berufliche Aus- und Weiterbildung (PEC), Standesrecht (PCC))
2014 bis 2022: Mitglied des Prüfungsausschusses für die Europäische Eignungsprüfung (EQE), D-Teil

MOTIVATION:
Mein derzeitiger Schwerpunkt als epi-Ratsmitglied und Vorsitzende des Ausschusses für Standesrecht ist die Reform des Disziplinarsystems – insbesondere eine Verkürzung der Verfahrensdauern sowie die Sicherstellung von Qualität und Transparenz der Entscheidungspraxis ist hier ein zentrales Anliegen. Dafür habe ich mich als Mitglied einer gemeinsamen Arbeitsgruppe mit dem EPA und den Beschwerdekammern persönlich stark engagiert und möchte mich im Rat dafür einsetzen, dass die Umsetzung der Reform gelingt.

Auch die Standesregeln des epi bedürfen einer fortlaufenden Anpassung – beispielsweise, um praxistaugliche Rahmenbedingungen für den Einsatz von KI in unserem Beruf zu schaffen, ohne die Risiken aus dem Blick zu verlieren.

Weiterhin liegt mir ein vielfältiges Aus- und Weiterbildungsangebot des epi sehr am Herzen – insbesondere hochwertige, kostenlose (oder kostengünstige) Webinare zu praxisrelevanten Themen. Hierzu habe ich in den letzten Jahren durch Themenvorschläge und als Sprecherin bereits aktiv beigetragen.

In meiner bisherigen Arbeit im epi-Rat habe ich die Erfahrung gemacht, dass sich mit viel persönlichem Einsatz einiges für den Berufsstand erreichen lässt. Dabei ist es mir wichtig, ein offenes Ohr für die verschiedenen Sichtweisen und Anliegen der Mitglieder zu haben, um unseren gemeinsamen europäischen Berufsstand voranzubringen. Gerne möchte ich mich auch in Zukunft als Ratsmitglied weiterhin aktiv einbringen und würde mich über Ihre Stimme freuen!

I am a chemist by training and started my career in R&D of a Pharma originator. After filing of 60 patent applications in the first 5 years in R&D, I started my in-house training and passed the EQE in 2006. In 2008, I started to build up an IP department at Fresenius Kabi which did not exist at that time. My team represents directly before the European Patent Office in all procedures, and we are very much engaged in supporting the development of the European patent system.

Dr. rer. nat. Eberhard Tüngler
European Patent Attorney
epi substitute member seit 2020

-1994 Promotion in Theoretischer Festkörperphysik
- 1997 Höfler Maschinenbau (F&E Zahnradschleifmaschinen)
Seit 1997 Patentabteilung SEW-EURODRIVE (Getriebe, Elektromotoren, Wechselrichter/Umrichter-Elektronik, Industrie 4.0)

Meine Interessen + Meinungen:

Stärkung der European Patent Attorneys und des Rechtswegs:

- EQE: Erhaltung des früheren Qualitätsstandards (Master statt Bachelor)

- Stärkung der „European Patent Attorneys“ gegenüber „nationalen Rechtsanwälten ohne technisch-fachliche Kenntnisse“, insbesondere da die Sachverhalte heutzutage zunehmend technisch anspruchsvoller sind.

- Reformierung der Verfahrensordnung der Beschwerdekammern (Erschwerung von Verspätungseinwendungen und von Rückzügen auf „Formaljuristische“ Hindernisse)

- Absenkung der Zugangs-Hürden für Verfahren vor der Großen Beschwerdekammer

Dipl.-Chem. Dipl.-Biol. Dr.rer.nat. Heike Vogelsang-Wenke

Patentanwältin seit: 1992
in Kanzlei: Grünecker Patent- und Rechtsanwälte PartG mbB
Kanzleiort: München

Beruflicher Werdegang:
Studium der Chemie (Diplom) an der Universität Würzburg
Studium der Biologie (Diplom) an der Universität Würzburg
Promotion an der LMU München (Prof. Winnacker)
Durchführung der experimentellen Arbeiten am Max-Planck-Institut für Biochemie (Prof. Oesterhelt)
Ausbildung zur Patentanwältin in der Kanzlei Grünecker Kinkeldey Stockmair & Schwanhäusser
1992 Zulassung zur Patentanwaltschaft
1992 Zulassung als European Patent Attorney
Bis Ende 2023 Partnerin bei GrüneckerG mbB
Seit Anfang 2024 Of Counsel bei Grünecker PartG mbB

Bisherige berufspolitische Tätigkeit:
2001 Gründungs-Mitglied des PAK-Ausschusses für Biotechnologie
2001 - 2012 Vorsitzende des Ausschusses für Biotechnologie
seit Januar 2004 Mitglied des Vorstands der Patentanwaltskammer Tätigkeit in den Abteilungen I, III und V des Vorstands, derzeit Vorsitzende der Abteilung I
seit 2011 Mitglied im epi Rat; über die Jahre aktive Mitarbeit in verschiedenen Gremien; derzeit Associate member in EPPC und Harmonization Committee, Mitglied im Disciplinary Board sowie Chair MSBA
2017-2023 Vizepräsidentin des epi

Motivation

Liebe Kolleginnen und Kollegen, seit ich 2011 als deutsches Mitglied in den Rat des „European Patent Institute“ (epi) gewählt wurde, habe ich mich als Bindeglied zwischen epi und der Patentanwaltskammer (PAK) verstanden und einerseits die Interessen der deutschen Patentanwaltschaft im epi-Rat vertreten, andererseits dem Vorstand der PAK und der Kammerversammlung über die Entwicklungen in epi und EPA berichtet. Das gilt natürlich insbesondere für die 6 Jahre Tätigkeit als epi-Vize-Präsidentin, die satzungsgemäß im Mai 2023 endeten. Während dieser Zeit konnte ich tiefe Einblicke in die Strukturen von epi gewinnen, aber auch vielfältige Kontakte zum EPA knüpfen.

Gerne möchte ich auch in Zukunft zwischen epi und PAK vermitteln und die Interessen der deutschen Patentanwaltschaft bei epi vertreten, und gleichzeitig den „europäischen Blick“ in die Patentanwaltskammer tragen.

Daher bitte ich um Ihre Stimme!

Mein Name ist Robin Weiß, ich bin Diplom-Ingenieur (Univ.) Maschinenwesen sowie seit 2021 zugelassener deutscher Patentanwalt, European Patent Attorney und seit Juni 2024 European Patent Litigator.

Ich bin seit 2017 im gewerblichen Rechtsschutz tätig und seit 2021 Teil der Kanzlei Wallinger Ricker Schlotter Tostmann in München. Mein Tätigkeitsschwerpunkt liegt in der Ausarbeitung und Betreuung von europäischen und deutschen Patentanmeldungen, Einspruchs- und Beschwerdeverfahren sowie in der Erstellung von Gutachten zu Patentverletzungen und Freedom-to-Operate-Fragen. Besondere Expertise habe ich im Bereich computerimplementierter Erfindungen.

Als Coach des candidate support programme des epi engagiere ich mich für die Ausbildung und Unterstützung angehender European Patent Attorneys. Mit meiner internationalen Erfahrung und meiner Sprachkenntnis (Englisch, Spanisch und Französisch) möchte ich mich gerne auch aktiv an der Weiterentwicklung des europäischen Patentsystems beteiligen und entsprechend in den epi-Rat einbringen.

Mit freundlichen Grüßen
Robin Weiß

• Seit 2019 in der Patentabteilung der SEW-EURODRIVE GmbH & Co KG, Bruchsal;
• Dipl.-Ing. Elektrotechnik seit 1995;
• European Patent Attorney seit 2008;
• Deutscher Patentassessor seit 2013;
• UPC Representative seit 2024;
• Substitute Member im EPO Finances Committee;
• Associate Member im Online Communications Committee

Jahrgang 1970
Abitur, Wehrdienst
Studium der Elektrotechnik an der Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, 1991-1997.
Ergänzungsstudium Gewerblicher Rechtsschutz und Patentrecht, 1993-1994.
Aufbau betriebswirtschaftlicher Kenntnisse durch ein Doppelstudium BWL, 1993-1997.
Zwei Auslandssemester an der Middlesex University London, 1995-1996.
Seit 1997 bei der Siemens AG angestellt.
Entwicklungsingenieur im Kommunikationsbereich, 1997-2001.
Seit 2001 in der Patentabteilung der Siemens AG.
Betreuung des Kommunikationsbereiches 2001-2006.
European Patent Attorney 2006
Patentassessor 2007
Patent-Lizenzabteilung 2007-2011
Zulassung als Patentanwalt 2010
Betreuung des heutigen Geschäftsgebietes "Smart Infrastructure" seit 2011.
Studium Master of Intellectual Property Law and Management (MIPLM) beim CEIPI in Straßburg, abgeschlossen 2020.

2014-2016 Stellvertretendes Mitglied im epi-Rat
2017 bis heute: Vollmitglied im epi-Rat
2017 bis heute: Mitglied und Sekretär im EPO-Finance Komitee
2020 bis 2023: Mitglied im epi-Finance Komitee
2020 bis 2023: Stellvertretendes Mitglied im Komitee für Standesregeln (PCC)
2023 bis heute: Mitglied des Vorstandes, stellvertretender Schatzmeister des epi

Meine Motivation für die erneute Kandidatur zum epi-Rat:
In der kommenden Wahlperiode möchte ich als Delegierter weiterhin die Interessen der deutschen European Patent Attorneys, insbesondere aus der Industrie, vertreten.
Die Erfahrungen, die ich in den letzten Jahren im Rat, in den epi-Gremien, in der Arbeit mit den anderen Länderdelegationen und im Vorstand des epi gesammelt habe, möchte ich für die deutsche Delegation weiter ausbauen und einsetzen.

Ich würde mich freuen, meine Arbeit im Rat fortzusetzen, danke Ihnen herzlich für Ihr bisheriges Vertrauen und bitte um Ihre Stimme.

Lu Zhang is a European Patent Attorney with extensive experience in intellectual property law, patent prosecution, and strategic IP portfolio management across industry and private practice. She has a proven track record of representing clients before the European Patent Office and national offices, with particular expertise in patent drafting, examination, opposition, and appeal proceedings.

Her professional career spans leading roles in both multinational corporations and top-tier international law firms, enabling her to bridge legal, technical, and strategic perspectives. She combines technical excellence with a strong commitment to quality, efficiency, and collaboration in the patent system.

Lu Zhang is actively engaged in professional committees and international IP initiatives, promoting dialogue between practitioners and patent offices. She is committed to advancing the European patent profession and ensuring high professional standards.

I work in private practice in Copenhagen. I am presently a substitute Council member for Denmark, a member of the Mechanics group of EPPC, and a member of SACEPO WP/Q. My main interests lie within quality and processes.

PATENT AND LEGAL QUALIFICATIONS

• European Patent Attorney (No. 9311330), qualified 2023
• US Patent and Trademark Office, Patent Attorney (No. 78,439), qualified 2018.
• New York State, Attorney (No. 5278585), qualified 2014.


PATENT EXPERIENCE

GN STORE NORD A/S, Patent Attorney, Ballerup, Denmark, 2023 to present
• Developing patent portfolios for medical devices including in artificial intelligence, software.
• Representing GN Hearing in European patent invalidation procedures, including oppositions, appeals, and petitions for review. Performed statistical analysis of court decision data to identify trends and inform legal strategy.

ZACCO A/S, Associate Patent Attorney, Copenhagen Denmark, 2020 to 2023
• Prosecuted European patents and collaborated with global counsel to develop international portfolios, specializing in AI inventions. Represented clients ranging from biotechnology startups to large media companies.

3SHAPE A/S, Junior Patent Attorney, Copenhagen, Denmark, 2018-2020
• Harvested inventions and drafted patent applications for AI technologies, including autoencoders and data structures.
• Led internal machine learning journal club to foster cross-team technical learning.

NJORD LAW FIRM, Legal Adviser, Copenhagen, Denmark, 2014 to 2016
• Researched and drafted arguments for EU trademark cases at the board of appeals and the European Court of Justice.


FITZPATRICK, CELLA, HARPER & SCINTO, Summer Associate, New York, NY, USA, 2012
• Drafted arguments in ANDA patent litigation for global pharmaceutical companies.

U.S. FEDERAL COURT, EASTERN DISTRICT OF MICHIGAN, HON. JOHN CORBETT O'MEARA, Judicial Intern, Ann Arbor, MI, 2011
• Researched and drafted legal issues for judgments in federal cases.


OTHER EXPERIENCE


UNIVERSITY OF COPENHAGEN FACULTY OF LAW, Copenhagen, Denmark, 2024-present
• External Lecturer, AI and Legal Disruption, Spring 2024: Taught by introducing examples of real-world AI use such as social scoring and medical research, and discussing applicable US and EU laws.
• Guest Lecturer, Regulating Big Tech, 2025-present: Introduced law students to artificial intelligence and lectured on US legislation relating to large technology companies.

DELTEK A/S, Software Application Developer, Copenhagen, Denmark, 2016 to 2018
• Developed enterprise resource planning software and served as scrum master.

UNIVERSITY OF COPENHAGEN DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER SCIENCE, Teaching Assistant, Machine Learning, Copenhagen, Denmark, Fall 2015
• Taught introductory machine learning algorithms and underlying theory.
UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO HOSPITALS, Research Technician, Chicago, IL, USA, 2005-2010
• Researched and developed protocols for new projects in the study of neonatal gastroenterological disease, including studies on immunity in umbilical cord blood and neonatal microbiomes. Co-authored relevant papers.


EDUCATION

UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO, Chicago, IL, USA
B.A. in Biology with General Honors, August 2007

UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN LAW SCHOOL, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
Juris Doctor, December 2013

UNIVERSITY OF COPENHAGEN, Copenhagen, Denmark
MSc in Bioinformatics, August 2016
• Thesis: Random Forests in Small Effects and Polygenicity in Schizophrenia


PUBLICATIONS

• Shiou, S. R., Yu, Y., Chen, S., Ciancio, M. J., Petrof, E. O., Sun, J., & Claud, E. C. (2011). Erythropoietin protects intestinal epithelial barrier function and lowers the incidence of experimental neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis. Journal of Biological Chemistry, 286(14), 12123-12132.
• Liedel, J. L., Guo, Y., Yu, Y., Shiou, S. R., Chen, S., Petrof, E. O., ... & Claud, E. C. (2011). Mother's milk-induced Hsp70 expression preserves intestinal epithelial barrier function in an immature rat pup model. Pediatric research, 69(7), 395-400.


OTHER

HEARING INSTRUMENT MANUFACTURERS PATENT PARTNERSHIP K/S, Representative for GN, Copenhagen, Denmark, 2023-present

I have acquired significant experience from both private practice and in-house attorney positions throughout my career. I have handled almost everything there is to handle in IP - ranging from the early stages through to litigation world-wide.

Occupations:
Sep 2024 - present - aera A/S - European Patent Attorney, Team Lead
Jan 2023 - Sep 2024 - Ferring Pharmaceuticals - Senior Director, Global Regulatory Affairs
May 2018 - Jan 2023 - Ferring Pharmaceuticals - Director, Global Patents, EPA
Sep 2014 - Apr 2018 - Novozymes, Senior Patent Manager, EPA
Mar 2012 - Aug 2014 - Genmab, In-house Patent Attorney
Sep 2008 - Feb 2012 - Internationalt Patent Bureau / AWA Patent, Trainee - Patents

Based on my experience spanning from 'both sides of the table' I believe I can bring value, crucial experience and knowledge and at the same time representing Denmark and impacting diversity at epi!

I have worked in the patent profession since 1996, beginning at the Danish Patent Office and continuing across industry roles (Coloplast, NKT) and private practice (Zacco, Hegner & Partners, Plougmann Vingtoft). My academic background is in chemistry, and over the years I have gained extensive experience across a broad range of technologies, including biotechnology, polymers, mechanics, physics, and optics.

epi Involvement
I have been actively engaged in epi through both council and committee work, with a particular focus on the following roles:

Council Member: 2002–2007, 2020–2025 (full member); 2017–2019 (alternate/suppliant)
EPPC Committee: Member since 2005
Chair of Guidelines Subcommittee & Member of SACEPO WPG: 2005–2025
Contributor to various other working groups

I have been deeply committed to the work of the EPPC committee for many years. In my view, its efforts are vital to all epi members, and I am keen to continue contributing meaningfully to its mission.

I have been a member of the Council since 2014. In the first two periods (2014-2020) as a representative for the industry consituency and in the previous two periods (2020-2026) as a representative for the unitary consituency. It would be a pleasure for me to stand for election for a new period and hope to receive support based on my experience during the previous periods in the Council as a representative for both the industry and private practice in Denmark. Additionally, I have been member of the Litigation Committee under epi from 2011-2020 and have during during my 9 years in the committee gained excessive experience in the establishment of the Unified Patent Court Agreement.

I have a background in medical biotechnology and have been active as an IPR professional since late 1992, becoming an epi member in 1997. My career has been in both private and corporate practice, where I primarily have advised clients/employers in the biotech industry with a special focus on immunology and vaccine technology. I have represented Denmark in the epi Council for several election periods (since 2011) and currently act as the liaison member of the Danish delegation. My major historical impact on the Danish epi representation is that I argued in favor of and later initiated the process that turned Denmark into a unitary constituency in 2019.
I am a strong proponent of an open dialogue between Council members and our electors as well as in transparency in the work of epi in general and Council in particular.

European Patent Attorney with Chemistry/Biotechnology as technical background.
I work with all kinds of work related to biotechnology and chemistry patents, such as patent drafting, examination, opposition and appeal, litigation, searches and freedom-to-operate opinions.
I was elected as Substitute Member of the Council in 2023 – but for different reasons I was not as active/helpful as I have hoped – if I get elected again, I will try to do better.
Having said above – if someone else with more time to be more “active” from our lovely country of Denmark should be willing to help with this important epi Council work – then it could probably be better to vote for this more “active” person as DK substitute member.

European Patent Attorney with organic chemistry as technical background. I mainly work with oppositions and appeals at the EPO and litigation support in national proceedings, and enjoy tutoring candidates for the EQE.

I am a European Patent Attorney and Litigator with almost 15 years of international private practice experience.

My background is an engineer in Optical and electronic equipment and systems complemented by a law degree in the International private and trade law. My technical specializations are electronics, optics, software, and mechanics.

Beyond my practice, I am actively invested in the future of our profession through my roles as an epi tutor and a committee member for the pilot epi Students Mentorship Programme.

Considering my international background and cross-cultural working experience, I should bring both knowledge and diverse experience to the work of Council. My main goal is to promote diversity and comprehensive development of the patent attorney profession.

Urmas KAULER
Managing Partner
Patendibüroo TURVAJA OÜ
Liivalaia 22, Tallinn 10118, Estonia
Phone: +372 640 3109
Mobile: +372 507 8725
E-mail: [email protected]

Mr. Urmas Kauler is an Estonian and European Patent Attorney, as well as an Estonian and European Trademark and Design Attorney.

He has been with Patent Agency TURVAJA since 1996 and currently serves as the firm's Managing Partner.

Urmas began his career in intellectual property in 1993 after graduating. Before joining TURVAJA, he served as Head of the Trademark Department at the Estonian Patent Office.

He is the President of the Estonian National Group of AIPPI (since 2009), a Board Member of the Chamber of Estonian Patent Attorneys (since 2019) and a member of the Disciplinary Committee of the epi (since 2023).

Mr. Kauler has extensive experience across all areas of intellectual property, including patents, utility models, trademarks, industrial designs and covering the full spectrum from filing to litigation.

European and Estonian Patent, Trade Mark and Design Attorney. Admitted to practice law in Massachusetts, USA.

Degree in electrical engineering (MSEE) from Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech), JD/MIP (Juris Doctor/Master of Intellectual Property) degrees from University of New Hampshire Law School, European patent litigation course at CEIPI (University of Strasbourg).

Worked in Estonian Patent Office as a patent examiner and as the head of PCT group, in patent attorneys firm in Estonia before founding own firm in 2000. Worked as technology transfer professional and IP professional at Tallinn University of Technology.

Epi Council member 2011-2021, Member of the LitCom 2011-2021.

Keen cyclist, avid basketball player. Father of twin boy and girl.

Margus Sarap
European and Estonian Patent attorney
European and Estonian Trademark and Design attorney

25.08.1965

Trademarks, designs, inventions (patents, utility models), IO consultations, managing Estonian firm IO abroad
Education
1996-2000 Tartu University, Faculty of Law
1983-1990 Tallinn University of Technology, mechanical engineer (M.Sc. - qualification corresponds to Master’s degree)
1972-1983 Tartu Tamme Secondary School
(special class of biology and geography)

Related experience
2019 epi Roadshow for professional representatives supported by the EPO “Opposition and Appeal”, “7.05.2019 Riga
2017 European Patent Office program „Examination Matters 2017“, 31.05-01.06.2017, Munich. Certificate issued on 01.06.2017.
2016 European Patent Office and European Patent Academy program PW01-2016 „Oral proceedings at the EPO“, Mock Oral proceeding, 22-23.02.2016 Munich. Certificate issued on 23.02.2016.
2012 European Patent Office and European Patent Academy program “Praktika Intern (Module 2)“, working as examiner in EPO – 08-28.10.2012 EPO, Munich. Certificate issued on 28 October 2012
2011 European Patent Office and European Patent Academy program
„Train the Trainers“ follow-up seminar 26-28.10.2011, EPO in Munich
2009 epi tutor, 19.06.2009
(epi - Institute of Professional Representatives before the European Patent Office)
2009 European Patent Office and European Patent Academy program
„Train the Trainers“ for experienced national patent attorneys 3 modules from 2.03 to 19.06.2009, EPO in Munich
2006 European Patent Office and European Patent Academy program
„Train the Trainers EPC2000“
1995 Birch, Stewart, Kolach & Birch (USA)
U.S.A. patent system, Summer course - 2 months
1994 Chas Hude (Denmark)
Practical training in Patent Agency - 2 months

Work history
2024 - … Metida Patendibüroo OÜ, Estonia, CEO
2015-2019 Metida Law Firm Zaboliene and Partners Associated Partner, China project consultant
2008-2024 Sarap and Partners Patent Agency, partner
1993-2008 Patent Agency Käosaar & Co, partner, Head of patent department
1992-1993 Tartu City Superstore, Head of department
1990-1992 Tartu Special Design Office of Estonian Academy of Sciences, constructor/designer

Languages
Estonian native language
English speak fluently and read/write proficiency
Russian speak, read, and write with basic competence

Membership
2003 – epi member, epi Council member
2019 – Member of Chamber of Estonian Patent Attorneys
2019 – 2024 Member of Chamber of Estonian Patent Attorneys, Member of Professional Conduct Committee
2017 – 2023 Member of epi Finance Committee
2017 – 2023 Member of epi Professional Education Committee
2013 – 2017 epi* Presidium (Deputy Treasurer)
2010 exam of Estonian Trademark Attorney, professional representative before the OHIM
2008 – 2013 epi, Member of the Board
2007 – 2013 Association of the Estonian Patent Attorneys, Chairman of the Board
2004 – 2017 epi European Patent Practice committee (eppc), member
2002 European Patent attorney, in the list of the professional representatives before the European Patent Office
2000 – 2019 Member of Association of Estonian Patent Attorneys
2000 Estonian Patent Attorney, in the register of the Estonian Patent attorneys

Jürgen Toome
European and Estonian Patent attorney
Partner at AAA Patendibüroo OÜ

AAA Patendibüroo OÜ
Tartu mnt 16, 10117 Tallinn, Estonia
Phone: +372 6406606
E-mail: [email protected]
www.aaa.ee

Date of birth: 13.02.1970

Education:
1988-1993: Tallinn Technical University - Mechanical Engineering

Professional history:
1993-2000: patent examiner, Estonian Patent Office
2000-2002: patent specialist, LASVET Patendibüroo OÜ
2002- until December 2019: patent attorney, LASVET Patendibüroo OÜ
From December 2019: patent attorney, AAA Patendibüroo OÜ

Memberships:
2002-present: Estonian Patent Attorney, in the register of the Estonian Patent attorneys
2002-present: European Patent attorney, in the list of the professional representatives before the European Patent Office
2004-2019: Member of Association of Estonian Patent Attorneys
2019-present: Member of Chamber of Estonian Patent Attorneys

EPI Council history:
2005-2008: EPI Council - substitute member
2008-2011: EPI Council - substitute member
2011-2014: EPI Council - substitute member
2014-2017: EPI Council - full member / EPPC Committee Member
2017-2020: EPI Council - full member / EPPC Committee Member
2020-2023: EPI Council - full member / EPPC Committee Member
2023-present: EPI Council - full member / EPPC Committee Member

Me he animado a presentar mi candidatura por varias razones, pero principalmente, porque disfruto con lo que hacemos, por el buen compañerismo que existe en nuestro sector y para aportar mi granito de arena con el objetivo de mejorar nuestra profesión.

No dudéis que daré todo lo mejor de mí si salgo elegida.

Muchas gracias.
____________________________________________


Qualifications:

European Patent Litigation Certificate. Politecnico di Milano (2023).
Master of Intellectual Property Law and Management. Centre d’Études Internationales de la Propriété Intellectuelle (CEIPI), University of Strasbourg (2019).
Qualified European Patent Attorney (EQE 2018).
Spanish Official Industrial Property Agent (2013).
Ph.D., Pharmacy. University of Navarra (2005).


Professional practice:

I have been a partner at GALBAIAN Intellectual Property since 2012. Prior to this, I worked at the University of Navarra and Progenika Biopharma, specialising in R&D&I management, quality assurance, and regulatory affairs. This gave me a real insight into the needs and interests of a company within the innovation process of new products and services.
My practice focuses on patentability analysis, drafting and prosecution of patent applications, conducting infringement analysis, patent validity analysis and IP portfolio management activities, mainly in the fields of chemistry, medical devices, biotechnology and food science. Currently, I also provide a comprehensive service related to the design and implementation of IP strategies.
I am also a lecturer in training courses on IP (in-house and University of Mondragon) and as a speaker at various forums, seminars and conferences.


Membership:

- European Patent Institute (since 2018).
- Member of the Valuation Committee of LES España-Portugal (since 2020).

Hi all!

Let’s be honest: most candidates have long resumes, impressive titles, and decades of experience. But what the epi also needs right now is momentum, modern thinking, and new energy.

I'm a European Patent Attorney, I've worked in private practice and now in-house at a semiconductor company, where I manage a growing international patent portfolio. My background in photonics and nanotechnology is backed by two technical master’s degrees, and I’m currently studying Law to deepen my legal expertise.

But more importantly, I’m deeply involved in the future of our profession:

– I serve as a member of the EQE Examination Committee I
– I mentor EQE candidates as a volunteer
– I advocate for a more inclusive, transparent and forward-looking profession

I don’t believe the Council should only represent seniority, it should reflect the diversity of today’s profession: younger voices, new ideas, and the realities of IP practice in fast-moving industries, not limited to the perspectives of IP law firms alone.

If elected, I will bring practical insight, commitment to progress, and a clear goal: to help ensure the epi not only preserves its legacy, but evolves with purpose.

The profession is changing. Let’s make sure the epi evolves with it.

Thank you for your trust.

Manuel Jesús Pérez Sánchez is a is a European Patent Attorney, Spanish Patent and Trademark Attorney and UPC Representative and he holds a degree in MSc. Telecommunications Engineering.

He starts his career in in telecommunications companies such as Telefónica and Vodafone, gaining valuable experience in network systems and emerging digital technologies.

He later joined the European Patent Office (EPO) in The Hague as a Patent Examiner in the telecommunications field, where he developed a deep understanding of European patent procedures and the evaluation of technological innovation.

In 2010, Manuel joined Herrero & Asociados (H&A) where, since 2012, he is Head of the Telecommunications and Software Patents Area leading patent projects in advanced technological domains such as mobile communications, blockchain, IoT, artificial intelligence, authentication, encryption, and data transmission.

In addition to his professional practice, Manuel is actively involved in teaching and training in industrial property. He lectures in programs such as the Master’s in Industrial Property “Magister Lucentinus” and the CEIPI European Patent Law courses.

*Briefly about me*
I have always had a strong European outlook. After graduating in Chemistry in Barcelona, and doing a research project in Belgium, I obtained my PhD in Biochemistry from Imperial College London. To get acquainted with patent profession I undertook reclassification work at the EPO in Munich, after which I decided to enter the profession and I started my traineeship in a reputed firm in the Netherlands in 2009, where I qualified as an EPA in 2013. In 2019 I returned to work for a Spanish firm and since 2022 I lead the Chemistry and Life Sciences department at Elion IP. Throughout my career I have had the chance to build up a complete vision of the European patent system globally, and in Spain.
*Why vote me?*
As a young European Patent Attorney, I’ve learned that protecting innovation is as much about people as it is about patents. Our profession is evolving fast — and so must the institutions that represent us. Compared to other jurisdictions, I’ve seen how young patent professionals in Spain face steep entry barriers, unclear career paths, and the challenge of making their voices heard in decisions that shape our future. I believe the Administrative Council of the EPO needs a touch of youthful curiosity and courage, and to advocate for policies that truly nurture the next generation of patent experts.
If elected, I will bring fresh energy and a collaborative spirit to the Council, championing mentorship, accessibility, and transparency. I want to help build bridges between experienced practitioners and newcomers, ensuring that all perspectives are part of the conversation.
I would be delighted to start working together with other Spanish epi members on the Council to help shape the future of our profession for the benefit of all European Patent Attorneys and the users of the European patent system. Because great ideas aren’t just to be protected — they’re to be lived, improved, and passed on.

I am a Mechanical Engineer from the Polytechnic University of Madrid (UPM) and hold a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the European Business School (Madrid). I have been a European Patent Attorney since 2011 and obtained a Diploma in Patent Litigation in Europe from the University of Strasbourg (CEIPI) in 2016. I am also a Spanish Patent and Trademark Attorney.
Currently, I am a Partner and Head of the Patent Department at Elzaburu. My professional experience spans both private practice and industry, with a focus on patent drafting, prosecution, and opinion work—including freedom to operate, infringement, and validity analyses—in the fields of mechanical and electrical engineering.
I am a regular tutor for several patent courses and I participate in the coordination of the European Patent Law Course (EPI-CEIPI) in Madrid.
Since 2020, I have been working on the epi Council and I would be delighted to continue my work on the Council

Work Experience:

Sept. 2017 – now
European Patent Attorney, Airbus Operations SL
As In-house European Patent Attorney at Airbus, I am responsible of:
• Detecting and protecting key inventions for the business.
• Drafting patent applications, replying office actions and oppositions.
• Managing a patent portfolio-deciding on patents strategy (filings & extensions & maintenance)-.
• Managing suppliers -collaborating with external IP agents- and clients -Airbus engineers-.
• Ensure Airbus´ freedom to operate.
• Managing invoicing and budget.
• Promoting IP inside the company. Giving continuous awareness and assessing in patent matters to the engineer, procurement and business development communities in Airbus.

Sept. 2012 – Sept. 2017
PQ-European Patent Attorney, Herrero & Asoc.
During this term I managed people in the electro-mechanic team (setting goals & targets and performing reviews).
Also, I become a PQ-EPA being responsible of:
• Drafting national, international, and European patent applications. Prosecuting before the EPO, WIPO, and other national offices (OEPM, USPTO, JPO, SIPO…).
• Conducting searches. Performing patentability and infringement reports.
• Assessing in patent matters.
• Keeping deadlines under control; managing priorities; and being aware of technology advances.

Sept. 2011 – Sept. 2012
Technological Intelligence Technician, Clarke Modet & Co.
• Performing technological evaluation reports to detect target technologies and licenses opportunities.
• Competitors patent monitoring (Thomson, Questel).

April 2009 – Sept. 2011
Patent Adviser, Clarke Modet & Co.
Under an EPA supervision, I was responsible of:
• Drafting national, international, and European patent applications;
• Replying Office Actions before the EPO and other national offices;
• Conducting searchs.

April 2008 – Sept. 2008
Web developer, FARO GLOBAL International Scholarship Program
3D reconstruction of the city of Valletta, Malta.

Education
1999 – 2007 MSc. Telecommunication Engineer
University Carlos III de Madrid

2007 – 2008 MSc. Thesis: Object Detection and Recognition in Images by Classification with SVMs (with honors)

2008 – 2009 Intensive Trining in IP
Private practice

2010 – 2012 Master in European Patent Law OEPM, EOI, CEIPI (160h)

Languages
English fluent in listening, writing and speaking
French basic level
German basic level
Spanish mother tongue

Skills
Proactive; Adaptable; Open-minded
Analytical thinker; Problem-solving person
Communicative

Resume (selection):
2006: PhD in Structural Biology
2010: CEIPI studies
2011-2016: Patent counsel at mAbxience (Biosimilars pharmaceutical), Madrid and London
2015: European Patent Attorney qualification
2018: US Patent Agent qualification
2017-2020: US Patent Agent at Haley Guiliano (law firm), California
2021-2022: European Patent Attorney at Pharmaceutical company, Madrid
2022-present: European Patent Attorney at Revvity, remote Madrid.

I am a European Patent Attorney with a PhD in Structural Biology. Since 2008, I have worked across private practice in Madrid and California, and in-house roles (Pharmaceutical and Biotech companies). I am currently serving as Sr. Principal Intellectual Property Specialist at Revvity, where I lead complex patent portfolios. My work spans the full spectrum of patent lifecycle management—from drafting and prosecution to strategic portfolio development.
Beyond my core responsibilities, I am committed to the future of the IP profession. I actively guide and support EQE candidates. I advocate for clarity, accessibility, and excellence in patent practice.

I began my professional career in the field of Industrial Property in 2002.

After being a partner and head of the patent department of the boutique Sugrañes in Barcelona, I joined ABG in 2024 as an associate in the Department of Engineering & Physics and Information & Communications Technology (ICT), in the ABG office of Barcelona.

My practice focuses on IP portfolio management, consulting, drafting, filing and the subsequent prosecution of patents and other IP rights. I am frequently required to prepare freedom to operate reports and regularly serve as an expert in patent infringement and nullity litigation. To practice this profession, I became a European Patent Attorney in 2010. I am also a Spanish Patent and Trademark Attorney and more recently I became a Representative before the Unified Patent Court.

For two three-year periods I was member of the EPI Professional Education Committee because I like and believe in the need for continuous training for those who are part of the profession, and in providing opportunities for those who work hard to access it (EQE candidates) just like we had back then.

That is why I also actively participate in professional associations such as AIPPI and have been collaborating assiduously in courses on the matter, such as those organized by CEIPI and the School of Industrial Organization, among other training activities.

Despite the demand and the necessary dedication that this our profession requires, I try to find time for my family and if you can’t locate me, it is because I am climbing or cycling with no mobile coverage.

I am a EPA and part-qualified Chartered UK attorney working at Kolster in Helsinki. I previously worked as an examiner at the UK Intellectual Property Office before moving into private practice in the UK in 2018. I work the mechanical engineering, material sciences and software fields.

Finnish and European Patent Attorney
Epi Council Member (full member since 2014)
Partner at Berggren Oy
At Berggren Group since 2004
Member of the Board, Tampereen Patenttitoimisto Oy, 2012 - 2014

Dr. Tech, Technical Physics, Tampere University of Technology 2003
M.Sc. Electrical Engineering, Tampere University of Technology 1991
Research Scientist at Optics Laboratory and at Plasma Technology Laboratory of Tampere University of Technology 1988 - 2003
Member of Photonics Finland
Member of European Optical Society

Key qualifications
2005 European Patent Attorney, EQE
2003 Registered Patent Attorney (Finland)
1999 M.Sc. Electrical Engineering, University of Oulu

Professional experience
2006-present European Patent Attorney, CEO, founding partner, Espatent Oy
2003-2006 Finnish and European Patent Attorney, Forssen&Salomaa Oy
2000-2003 Inhouse patent engineer, Stonesoft Oyj
1999-2000 Patent agent, Kolster Oy Ab

Selected other activities
2019-present Member of the Patent Contact Committee of Finnish Patent Attorneys, Corporate patent professionals and Finnish Patent Office
2010-2011, 2013-2015 Member of Board of the Association of Finnish Patent Attorneys (SPAY)

Vitae (selection):
2009 Diploma on Patent Litigation in Europe (CEIPI)
2006 European Patent Attorney qualification
2002 National Finnish Patent Attorney
2000 M. SC (El Eng.), Aalto University

Professional Experience
2002 - 2025 Patent Attorney Private Practices, currently at Papula-Nevinpat, Team Leader (Ict, Ele & Phy)
1999 - 2001 Nokia IPR
1998 National Boards of Patents and Registrations of Finland
Finnish Market Court External Expert

My dedication and involvement with the epi & associations:
- Full member of the Council, since 2017
- Full member of the Financial Committee, since 2023
- Full member of the Professional Education Committee, 2008 - 2023
- A Member of Board of Finnish Patent and Trademark Attorneys (SPAY), 2007 – 2008

Summary of qualifications
2017 Diploma on Patent Litigation in Europe (CEIPI)
2010 European Patent Attorney
2002 Registered Patent Attorney (Finland)
1998 M.Sc. (Chemical Eng.)

Areas of expertise
Different areas of chemistry, especially related to biofuels, diagnostics, food technology, pharmaceuticals and polymer chemistry

Professional experience
1998 - Boco IP Oy Ab (prev. BORENIUS & Co Oy Ab) Helsinki, Finland
Member of the Board 2001-, Partner 2005-, Chairman of the Board 2020-
2020 - External Expert Member (IPR matters), Market Court of Finland

Additional professional activities
2017 - epi Council, full member
2017 - epi Professional Conduct Committee, full member
2021 - 2025 epi Working Group for Diversity and Inclusion
2011 – 2017 epi Professional Conduct Committee, substitute member
2010 - 2013 Chairman of the Association of Finnish Patent Attorneys
2002 – 2004 Chairman of the Chemist group of the Association of Finnish Patent Attorneys

Key qualifications:
2021 European Patent Litigation Certificate (Politecnico di Milano)
2001 EQE
1996 M.Sc. (Electronics)

Professional experience:
Currently: European Patent Attorney, UPC Representative, Senior Partner and Member of the Board at Laine IP Oy (former Seppo Laine Oy), Helsinki, Finland.
2013-2022 Managing Director, Laine IP Oy
2002- Partner, Laine IP Oy
2001- European Patent Attorney, Laine IP Oy
1997- Patent agent, Laine IP Oy

Key professional interest:
EPO opposition and appeal proceedings, UPC

Selected other activities:
2002- CEIPI tutor
2007 Nationally nominated EPC 2000 tutor

Since 2024 PEC Substitute Member
Since 2023 epi Council Member
2017-2020 epi Council Substitute Member

Since 2023 Senior Corporate Patent Attorney at Neste
2018-2023 Corporate Patent Attorney at Borealis
2010-2018 Finnish/European Patent Attorney at Kolster
Since 2014 European Patent Attorney
Since 2012 Finnish Patent Attorney

Degrees
EQE passed 2014
DSc (Tech), Organic Chemistry, 2007
MSc (Tech), Chemical Engineering, 2003

Summary of qualifications:
2022 European Patent Attorney
2022 Registered Patent Attorney (Finland)
2012 PhD (Environmental Biotechnology)
2005 MSc (Biochemistry)

Areas of expertise:
Chemistry, biochemistry and biotechnology, particularly diagnostics, molecular biology, food technology, immunochemistry, process chemistry, bioenergy and cleantech

Professional experience:
2021 – Patent Attorney, Boco IP Oy Ab, Helsinki, Finland; Partner 2025 –
2017 – 2021, Patent Agent, Kolster Oy Ab, Helsinki, Finland
2012 – 2017, Researcher, Ductor Oy, Helsinki, Finland

Additional professional activities
2023 – epi Council, substitute member

Bonjour
Je suis membre suppléant du conseil depuis 2023, où je me suis présenté à la dernière minute ne voulant pas laisser un poste même de suppléant vacant pour la France. J’ai eu la chance de participer à deux conseils comme suppléant (C97 et C98). L’EPI, comme beaucoup d’organismes internationaux est une grosse machinerie, mais j’ai trouvé le travail qu’on y faisait d’un grand intérêt, mais qu’il fallait de l’expérience pour y être efficace. Comme un membre titulaire passé en « private practice » ne pouvait pas se représenter, j’ai décidé ensuite de participer au C99 et au C100 à titre personnel pour acquérir cette expérience dont un autre candidat mentionne l’importance.
Outre les participations aux conseils je suis impliqué dans deux commissions, l’une sur l’harmonisation qui conseille ou représente le président de l’institut pour les négociations d’harmonisation mondiale des droits de PI: les sujets actuels sont le droit de grâce et la possession personnelle antérieure. Je fais également partie de la commission pour la commercialisation des droits de PI, qui s’est occupée notamment du suivi du projet de règlement sur les brevets essentiels -depuis retiré par l’UE. Je fais également partie du groupe de travail qui doit préparer l’amicus curiae pour la G1/25 (adaptation de la description aux revendications délivrées). Je suis également devenu membre de la commission de discipline, étant donné qu’il y avait un poste vacant pour la France et pas d’autre volontaire et qu’il était important d’avoir un nombre minimum de francophones dans cette commission.
En ce qui me concerne j’ai un profil mécanique électrique et je travaille à Airbus Defence and Space comme responsable de la PI des activités spatiales depuis 2009. Je suis membre de l’ASPI du LES France et de la commission PI de l’AAAF. Je donne également des cours à l’ISAE Supaéro dans le mastère innovation.

Aujourd’hui Responsable du Pôle Litiges & Risques du Groupe Safran et fort de 20 années d’expérience des brevets européens au sein de grandes entreprises françaises, je peux m’investir au sein de l’EPI pour y apporter la vision stratégique des Industriels français en matière de brevet européen et faire valoir leurs intérêts.

Je suis candidat au poste de représentant de l'Industrie Française au sein du Conseil de l'EPI.

Ingénieur Mécanique, titulaire du MS Mngt de la PI, du CEIPI brevet, j’ai commencé comme ingénieur brevet au sein d'Industries françaises
J’ai ensuite rejoint le Groupe Safran, déposant plus de 500 demandes de brevet européen chaque année, en tant qu’ingénieur brevet avant de me voir confier la responsabilité de la conduite et la coordination d'activités stratégiques d'opposition et de conseil en PI interne de la plus grosse filiale du Groupe.

J’ai obtenu en parallèle le Certificat sur le Contentieux des brevets en Europe et suis Représentant devant la JUB.

Enfin je suis membre de l'ASPI, de l'EPLIT et contribue, en tant que représentant de Business Europe, au Working Group 11 "Broad Claims" conduit cette année par l’OEB.

CURRICULUM VITAE

BIOGRAPHICAL DATA

Pierre Henri GENDRAUD
27, rue de l’Amiral Hamelin
75116 - Paris
France

Fixed Phone: + 33 1 47 27 14 85
Mobile Phone: + 33 6 46 48 29 44

Date of Birth: March 19, 1950
Nationality: French


EDUCATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

Engineer, École Supérieure de Physique et Chimie Industrielles de la ville de Paris, 1974 ;
CEIPI, Law Faculty, Strasbourg, 1978;
Qualified in Patents at the National Institute of Industrial Property, 1980;
Master’s Degree, Law Faculty, Paris, 1982;
Master II Degree, Intellectual Property, Law Faculty, Strasbourg, 2015.


PRESENT POSITIONS

Expert at the Court of Appeal of Paris and at the Supreme Court, France;
Expert at the Administrative Court of Appeal of Paris and Versailles, France;
Professional Representative before the European Patent Office;
Member of the Disciplinary Board of Appeal before the European Patent Office;
Lecturer in CEIPI (University of Law in Strasbourg), FNDE and IEEPI.


MEMBERSHIP OF PROFESSIONAL BODIES

French Association of Industrial Property Specialists in Industry (ASPI, Former President);
Licensing Executives Society, France (LES, member));
European Patent Institute (Delegate substitute to the Council);
French Association for the Protection of Industrial Property (AFPPI, Former President);
International Association for the Protection of Industrial Property (AIPPI, Former General Secretary).

Géraldine GUERY-JACQUES

As a graduate engineer from INSA Lyon, I began working in industrial property in 1998 at the INPI France as a patent examiner. I was also a technical specialist on the patentability of software, which was a hotly debated topic at the time within French and European institutions. At the same time, I obtained CEIPI Patents and CEIPI Trademarks qualifications. After a few years at the INPI, I joined the industrial IP department of an international medical equipment group, which allowed me to deal with all aspects of IP within an international IP team and to qualify as a European patent attorney, a qualified French Patent Attorney, and a European Patent Litigator. Remaining loyal to the industry, I joined SEB, the world leader in small household appliances, in 2009 as an expert patent engineer before becoming vice president of the Industrial Property Centre of Excellence. I currently hold this position: I define the international patent strategy across the board and work with my team to apply it to the Group SEB's fifty or so product areas, thereby promoting and protecting the Group SEB's innovations in a highly competitive environment. I am a representative before the Unified Patent Court and hold a master's degree in intellectual property law, which enables me to address issues at the crossroads of science, law and innovation.

For many years, I have been heavily involved in training through ASPI tutoring to prepare for the EQE, as part of the INPI's EQF Patents jury. I am very active in the development of my profession: I have been president of the Association des Spécialistes PI en Industrie (ASPI) since 2021, and my term as president ends in February 2026. I sit on the INPI Board and the European Patent Office (EPO) SACEPO Main Group to represent users.

Today, I would like to join the EPI Council as a substitute member to deepen my knowledge of the EPI and contribute my professional experience and teaching skills to national IP bodies and IP boards. I also want to collaborate with the other members of the French delegation to support our positions in debates. Among the many committees and working groups, I could contribute in particular to those focused on training, litigation, privilege and code of conduct.

Alexandre Lebkiri is currently elected to the EPI council and wishes to continue his mission to represent French European patent attorneys. Alexandre is also member of the EPI European Patent Practice Committee (Technological Group “Information and Communication Technologies”)

He began his career in the components industry as head of automotive applications development at a major American company. In 1999, he entered the world of intellectual property and joined the French patent office INPI, where he dealt specifically with issues related to computer implemented invention. He then joined a patent attorney firm, where he was responsible for the patent portfolios of various applicants. He then held the position of intellectual property manager in the R&D department of AREVA NP.

Alexandre founded the IP attorney firm Camus Lebkiri, which he has managed since 2007 and which now has a staff of around thirty people.

Alexandre was also an associate professor at Paris 13 University (Master II in Innovation and Intellectual Property Management) and regularly gives lectures on intellectual property law (EPI, INPI, Centre Paul Roubier, etc.).

He has also served as Vice President of the CNCPI (French Patent & Trademark Attorneys Institute) and is a member of the board of the LES (Licensing Executive Society).

Mandataire français et européen confirmé, j'ai une expérience de plus de 20 années dans la profession, en industrie et en cabinet, en France, en Allemagne et en Grande-Bretagne. J'interviens sur un large spectre de dossiers dans les domaines de la biologie, la chimie et la mécanique, avec une grande expérience en procédures d'opposition et de recours devant l'OEB.
En parallèle de mon activité professionnelle, je me suis fortement investi depuis de nombreuses années auprès de l'epi/OEB, par exemple en tant que:
- membre du comité EQE (épreuve C);
- formateur auprès de l'académie européenne des brevets et du CEIPI;
- membre du conseil de discipline de l'OEB.
Je souhaite dorénavant m'investir davantage en siégeant au conseil de l'epi et collaborer avec les autres membres de la délégation française afin de soutenir nos positions. Parmi les nombreux comités et groupes de travail, je pourrais notamment apporter ma contribution à ceux axés sur la qualification, la formation continue et la déontologie.
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Senior European and French patent attorney, I have 20+ years of practice, both in the industry and in IP firms, in France, Germany and UK. I handle a greatly variety of files in different technical fields including biology, chemistry and mechanics, with a strong experience in opposition and appeal proceedings before the EPO.
In addition to this, I have devoted for many years a lot of time with epi/EPO, for example as:
- a member of the EQE committee (paper C);
- a trainer for the European patent academy and CEIPI;
- a member of the EPO disciplinary board.
I now wish to further participate as a member of the epi council and collaborate with the other French members, in order to promote our positions. Amongst the many committees and working groups, I might particularly contribute to those focusing on examination, professional education and disciplinary matters (code of conduct).

EDUCATION
Ecole Nationale Supérieure de Chimie de Paris -1996
European Patent Attorney - 2002
Conseil en Propriété Industrielle (French Patent Attorney) - 2006

EXPERIENCE
1997-2005 : Industry - Intellectual Property Department of TOTAL
2005 – present: Private practice at CASALONGA, partner since 2010
2011-2012: CNCPI, member of the Board
2008 – present: CEIPI teacher in EQE preparation
2023 – present : EPI Council member

I have extensive experience in European patent practice, especially in opposition and appeal proceedings before the EPO. I counsel my various clients on their IP strategy, from patent filing to litigation, including freedom to operate, ownership and license issues.
I have a deep and long-term commitment in training our young professionals at CEIPI for 17 years, actively preparing French candidates to pass papers A, B and D of the EQE.

My first term as French representative at epi Council gave me the opportunity to delve into the various topics, sometimes challenging, handled by the Council. I wish to continue my commitment to serving and representing our French professionals at epi and take an active part in discussions and decisions that affect the future of our profession.

Membre de la commission du Règlement Intérieur de l'epi depuis 2009 (Président de la commission depuis 2013)

Depuis 1995: Mandataire OEB en cabinet (Brevatome, Beau de Loménie, Brevalex, Santarelli);

2016 : Formation pour les juges techniques de la JUB (CEIPI, Univ. de Strasbourg).
2005 :Diplôme Universitaire « Contentieux des brevets en Europe » de l’Université de Strasbourg (CEIPI International).
1993: diplômé du CEIPI
1986: Doctorat en Physique Atomique et Moléculaire (Université de Lyon I)
1982: Diplôme d'Ingénieur Civil des Mines (Saint-Etienne).

After 4 terms as a full Council member the time has come to serve the French constituency in a different way, i.e. as a substitute.
I have been involved these past 11+ years in various Committees (DC, Editorial, By-Laws, SAC) or Working Group (D&I) and am therefore knowledgeable about the work of our Institute.

I have been the Head of the IP department of the French group Pierre Fabre from 2006 to 2021. Before, I occupied various patent functions in the leading life science company in France, Sanofi Group (and its predecessors Roussel-UCLAF, Hoechst Marion Roussel and Aventis).
Since 2023 I am an independant consultant on innovation and IP and work for several legal or innovation consulting bodies.
As regards the Pharma sector, I have been President of the Patent Group within the LEEM (Pharmaceutical Industry Association) for more than 10 years and has been a member of the IPEG group of EFPIA (European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries Associations) and IP group of G5 Santé . I have also been involved in mixed private and public commissions (CSIS/CSF)

I am also involved in related IP activities as board member of ASPI, Investment Committee of SATT Aquitaine and lecturer at the law universities of Toulouse, Aix, and Montpellier and at the School of Pharmacy of the University of Montpellier.

I am also involved in some activities with the CEIPI : Co-organizer of the advanced training program on Regulatory Affairs and Intellectual Property Protection in the Pharmaceutical Industry and has been consultant for Compulsory licence in EU

Therefore It would be an honor for me to be renewed in the position of EPI council ( or even deputy) with the goal to contribute to the evolution of the EPO so that patentees can benefit of a strong and safe patent system in the EU.

J’ai une formation en chimie et génie chimique, travaille dans l'industrie chimique depuis le début de ma carrière et suis tuteur au CEIPI depuis 2009, juste après avoir obtenu le diplôme de mandataire en 2008. Je suis membre du Conseil de l'EPI pour la France depuis la dernière élection en 2023. J'ai participé à toutes les réunions du Conseil depuis mon élection aux côtés des autres membres de la délégation française. J'ai aussi été élu au comité "Education" en tant que membre suppléant à Jérôme Collin (membre entier) et participe aux réunions en ligne de ce comité. J'ai également eu l'occasion de remplacer Jérôme Collin pour la réunion de juin qui a eu lieu à Milan.
Je souhaite me représenter comme membre du Conseil de l'EPI pour les raisons suivantes :
• être membre à part entière du Conseil nécessite plus d’un mandat pour bien s’habituer aux activités du Conseil en ayant en tête la dynamique en place ;
• avec les autres membres de la délégation française, nous avons été impliqués dans de nombreux aspects de la vie de l’EPI (par ex. décisions positives en faveur de la diversité et inclusion, décision sur le niveau universitaire nécessaire pour pouvoir se présenter à l'examen) et je souhaite continuer à consacrer de mon temps aux mandataires français ;
• en tant que tuteur au CEIPI depuis de nombreuses années, je suis également motivé pour travailler sur les questions liées à l'éducation dans le comité "Education", notamment sur le nouveau format de l’EEQ qui nécessite un travail actif pour assurer la transition notamment sur les nouveaux sujets d'examen.

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I have a background in chemistry and chemical engineering, have worked in the chemical industry since the beginning of my career, and have been a tutor at CEIPI since 2009, just after obtaining my patent attorney qualification in 2008. I have been a member of the EPI Council for France since the last election in 2023. I have attended all Council meetings since my election, alongside the other members of the French delegation. I was also elected to the "Education" committee as a substitute member for Jérôme Collin (full member) and participate in the committee’s online meetings. I also had the opportunity to replace Jérôme Collin for the June meeting, which took place in Milan.

I wish to stand again as a member of the EPI Council for the following reasons:

- Being a full member of the Council requires more than one term to become fully accustomed to the Council’s activities and to understand the existing dynamics;
- Together with the other members of the French delegation, we have been involved in many aspects of EPI’s activities (for example, positive decisions in favor of diversity and inclusion, decisions regarding the university level required to sit the exam), and I wish to continue dedicating my time to French patent attorneys;
- As a tutor at CEIPI for many years, I am also motivated to work on education-related issues within the "Education" committee, particularly regarding the new format of the EQE, which requires active work to ensure a smooth transition, especially on the new exam topics.

Brigitte Carion-Taravella is a qualified and experienced European and French Patent Attorney with a comprehensive educational background. She earned an engineering diploma in Bio-industry and a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the University of Technology (UTC) in Compiègne, France, as well as a Master's degree in Law, specializing in Intellectual Property Law and Management, from the University of Strasbourg (CEIPI).

With over 25 years of expertise in patent prosecution and intellectual property rights management, Brigitte also brings 9 years of experience in research and development. She currently holds a leadership position at Sanofi, where she leads the French and Belgian patent team for Biologics support and oversees patent policy matters across Europe. In addition, Brigitte represents Sanofi at the EFPIA (European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries) IP expert group and at INTERPAT (The Biopharmaceutical Intellectual Property Think Tank). Prior to joining Sanofi, she managed patent activities related to skincare products at Chanel Parfums Beauté from 2005 to 2010. Her career began as an R&D engineer focused on pharmaceutical development at Besins Healthcare, where she rapidly progressed to the position of global head of patents.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Brigitte is actively involved in several IP professional organizations. She has been a full member of the epi council and the epi's Biotech committee, representing French industry since 2017. Since 2023, she has served first as secretary and subsequently as vice president of the Biotech committee of the epi. She also serves as vice-president and secretary of the French board of AIPPI (International Association for the Protection of Intellectual Property) and previously served as President of ASPI (Association française des spécialistes en propriété industrielle de l'industrie) from 2013 to 2017. Notably, Brigitte has been a member in her personal capacity of the EPO's SACEPO (Standing Advisory Committee before the European Patent Office) for Guidelines and Quality since 2017.

I joined the profession in 1980, qualifying UK 1984 and EPO 1985. My entire career has been in private practice [although with a period acting as out-house IP counsel to a multi-national]. I am a fervent European and agree with Michael Bloomberg that Brexit was the 'stupidest thing any country has ever done'. Although Brexit (or perhaps one man’s approach to Brexit) means we, as a country, are not members of the UPC, our European credentials do at least mean we can act there.

In my past I have been a tutor of UK candidates for UK and European examinations; an examiner for a UK trademark examination; member of the Professional Conduct Committee of epi; vice-chair of Committee III of the EQE; member of a Disciplinary Board of the EPO; and former member of Council and Honorary Secretary of CIPA.

I am now a member of epi Council and chair the EPO Finances committee and the “Chemistry” sub-committee of the European Patent Practice Committee. I also work on epi’s EPO Guidelines working group.

I have been called opinionated and awkward (and that’s by friends) but I try to encourage progress rather than sit in the past.

To allow me to continue:-
• serving the interests of UK epi members in promoting and supporting the position of UK members as an integral part of the European IP scene: and
• promoting the interests of all epi members in a thriving European patent landscape;
please vote for me.

Addition creates more than division.

Professional history:
2008: Entered profession as a trainee at Phillips & Leigh after completing doctorate in Physical & Theoretical Chemistry at Oxford.
2013-2014: Qualified as UK attorney (2013) and European representative (2014).
2015: Passed CIPA Intellectual Property Litigation Certificate (thereby qualifying to practice before UPC).
2015-2019: Visiting Lecturer at Brunel University for IP management course.
2017-Present: Marking Examiner for Patent Examination Board relating to FD4 (infringement and validity) advanced paper.
Present workplace: Greenwoods Legal Services Limited (www.greenwoods.co.uk).

I have spent my professional life in private practice, coming from a chemistry background but also including a healthy proportion of computer-implemented inventions (including machine learning/AI) in my present caseload.

I believe my track record outlined above shows that as well as having been a qualified member of the profession for over a decade, I am also keen to contribute to the education and development of new professionals and to communicate ideas about IP to those who are not yet in the profession. Having done this within the UK profession for a decade, I believe seeking to serve as a substitute member on Council is the next logical step in giving back to the profession.

Vitae (selection):
2009-2012: BSc in Physics and Mathematics, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
2012-2015: MSc in Theoretical and Mathematical Physics, LMU & TUM, Munich, Germany
2015-2019: Patent Attorney Trainee at Stellbrink & Partner, Munich
2019: European Patent Attorney qualification
2020-2024: In-house Patent Counsel roles at IBM and Porsche, Stuttgart, Germany
2025-present: Patent Attorney at the UK Atomic Energy Authority (Public sector R&D), Culham, UK

My dedication to the profession is demonstrated through my long-standing and diverse involvement with the epi:
- epi delegate for the SACEPO Working Party on Quality
- epi Tutor (formerly also CSP Coach)
- Member of the Professional Education Committee
- Member of the Student Admissions Committee
- Member of the IP Awareness Working Group
- Member of the Diversity & Inclusion Working Group (currently being converted to a committee)
- Chair of the epi Students Mentorship Working Group

Personal Statement:
I am an experienced patent attorney with an academic background in physics & mathematics and extensive experience with software and robotics inventions.
My career has spanned a wide spectrum of the IP landscape: I trained in private practice in Munich, drove commercial IP strategy in-house at IBM and Porsche in Stuttgart, and have now moved into the public sector at the UK Atomic Energy Authority—a research organisation leading the delivery of sustainable fusion energy.
Beyond my day job, I am deeply committed to the future of the IP profession. I am part of the team working on Visser's Annotated European Patent Convention. I actively contribute as an epi Tutor and committee member, focusing on education and IP awareness, advocating for a more inclusive environment via the Diversity & Inclusion Working Group, and championing professional development through the pilot epi Students Mentorship Programme: https://patentepi.org/en/epi-students/epi-students-mentorship-programme/.
Electing a representative who is both new to the UK and deeply experienced within the epi’s governance is an opportunity. My extensive internal experience ensures I can be immediately effective, understanding the epi's mechanisms and key issues from day one and offering the UK membership a unique and powerful blend of deep institutional knowledge and a fresh perspective.
Should I be elected, I promise to represent the UK’s interests within epi and to promote epi within the UK IP community. I ask for your vote to bring both newcomer energy and epi expertise to the UK delegation.

I hope that European Patent Attorneys across the UK will take interest in these candidate statements and in the work that epi does on their behalf. Whoever you may vote for, an increased participation by UK constituency voters is critical to ensuring that all sectors of our profession are well represented, and that our voice carries weight.

I am an experienced UK & European patent attorney based in Scotland. Originally working in the electronics & physics field, I have always handled a wide range of mechanical and electronic/digital subject matter. I trained in-house in London, before moving to private practice in 1993. In 1997 I moved to Scotland, where I have been based ever since. I have worked in small and large firms. In 2014 I formed my own consultancy and support other firms providing high-added value patent services to their clients. Today my clients include a UK-based multinational innovating in broadband delivery, as well as my consulting role for other firms.

I have been active in epi Council continuously since 2008, and have good relations with the other country delegations and epi office bearers and staff, as well as EPO management. Though currently a substitute member of Council, I participate actively in Council and Board meetings as Chair of epi’s Online Communications Committee (OCC) OCC collaborates with the EPO and others to develop and improve all the online services that we rely on in our daily work. I am also appointed by the EPO President as an ‘ad personam’ member of the main SACEPO and of the SACEPO Working Party on the Electronic Patent Process, representing.

With proposals to rotate committee chairs after three terms, I am keen to be elected a full member of Council, so that I may still contribute fully. Council can seem an unwieldy decision-making body at times, but with vigilance, goodwill and innovation, it can play its full role as the key deciding body of epi.

Since 2011 I have also been a member within epi's Disciplinary Committee, being active as a chamber chair and in working groups to update the rules of procedure and internal processes. The constitution of the disciplinary bodies is a live topic in Council, and the voices of current and former members are valued.

I believe that principles of diversity and inclusion have been central to the strength and success of the European patent profession, and I am proud to been a founding member of epi’s Diversity & Inclusion Working Group. This ad hoc group is now to be replaced by permanent DEI committee. The number of UK voices in the new committee will be limited by rules, which makes it especially important to have diversity champions also elected to Council.

I joined the profession in 1997, at a time when it was uncertain that a mathematics degree was sufficiently technical to train as a European patent attorney. Fast forward 25 years and as Chair of epi’s Profession Education Committee (PEC), I have found myself at the heart of the reimagining of the e-EQE and more recently helping to influence the decision on the minimum level of technical knowledge for the profession.

Like others who are standing for election to epi, I’m keen to raise awareness of epi within the UK and encourage all UK EPAs to vote in the elections. Although the UK has just 6 elected members in an epi Council of over 130, we have managed to influence some recent key decisions in our favour in the last term. If elected, I will continue working with the other elected council members and CIPA to make sure that the UK is well represented at epi.

As a partner and software specialist at Appleyard Lees, I am currently enjoying the challenge of drafting specifications for core AI inventions. Alongside the day job, I have always been passionate about training. In my previous role at Marks and Clerk, I set up and ran the internal training academy and was a founding member of the Patent Examination Board (PEB).

My passion for training drew me to epi and in 2016, I joined the PEC to represent the UK. PEC’s remit covers both the EQE, CPD (known as CPE in epi) and more recently training for the European Patent Administration Certificate (EPAC). In 2019, I was elected Chair of the PEC and found myself at the heart of epi with a role to play at internal meetings (Council and Board) and external meetings with the EPO and EUIPO. At these meetings, we discuss many topics which affect the UK profession, including the AI guidelines, reform of the disciplinary system, representation at the UPC and so on.

I look forward to continuing to represent the UK. If you would like more information about epi, please reach out.

Chartered Patent Attorney, European Patent Attorney, Chartered Trade Mark Attorney, Patent Attorney Litigator, Trade Mark Attorney Litigator, BSc in Colour & Polymer Chemistry and PhD in Colour & Polymer Chemistry.

I began my career in the UK at the St Albans office of Marks & Clerk in 2005. Soon after I had joined the firm there was a management buyout of the office, and I was then working for Scott & York. More recently the firm has changed again following the merger of Scott & York with Cleveland in 2017 to become Cleveland Scott York. Shortly after the merger in 2019 I was made a Partner. The work I manage is very varied, including both large and SME clients, a mixture of technologies, and a mixture of Intellectual Property Rights of both a contentious and non-contentious nature.

Within the Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys (CIPA) I am currently serving on the Design & Copyright Committee and the Chair of the Trade Marks Committee. I also represent the CIPA Trade Marks Committee at the Marks & Designs Forum quarterly meetings at the UKIPO.

I am one of CIPA’s delegates to The Association of National Institutes of Intellectual Property Attorneys (ANIPA), the umbrella organisation for European national or regional IP Institutes. My work with ANIPA focusses on the relationship with the European Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), where I represent ANIPA at the User Group Meetings which are held twice a year.

More recently I was proud to serve CIPA as Vice-President in 2020, President in 2021 and Immediate Past President in 2022. In January 2026, I will be taking up the role of Chair of the Internal Governance Committee.

I was elected to the epi Council in 2023 and it's been a fantastic 3 years so far getting to know the ropes and getting more involved in epi, such as joining the Bye-Laws Committee as a Substitute Member.

With the experience I have gained within epi, CIPA, nationally and internationally, and through my work with other associations such as FICPI-UK, where I serve as Treasurer on Council, I feel that I still have much to be able to bring to epi. I would be honoured if you would enable to allow me to continue to serve the UK profession in this important role.

I began my working life in industry and then transferred to private practice and spent most of my working life as a partner at Carpmaels & Ransford. On retirement from the partnership, I set up my own consultancy company. At all times, I have been heavily involved in dealing with applications, oppositions and appeals at the EPO.
I have been one of the UK's full members of epi's Council for some time, during which time I have been a Vice-President and then President of epi. I have been a member of a number of epi's Committees. At present, I am Chair of epi's European Patent Practice Committee and Student Admissions Committee and a member of the Bye-Laws Committee. I am a member of SACEPO and some of its Working Groups, including the Working Party on Rules.
At present, epi, in cooperation with the EPO, is in the process of updating epi's disciplinary procedures and the EQE system. I am an active member of epi Working Groups on both of these topics and would like to ensure that these works are completed effectively.
I would like to be able to further serve the interests of UK epi members in ensuring that, especially on the EQE and disciplinary procedures, any changes reflect the requirements of the UK profession. I would also like to continue to act as a link between epi and CIPA. I would therefore ask you to re-elect me as a member of epi's Council.

Gwilym is closely involved in various CIPA aspects having been a Council Member for over 10 years and Honorary Secretary for 6 years - working closely with and advising our Chief Executive, Lee Davies, and providing continuity to our annual Presidents for 6 years. He has also worked closely with CIPA's Patent Committee for over 20 years and is currently a "de facto non-executive" member working intimately with its leadership. He is also Chair of CIPA's EU Liaison Committee, working on maintaining strong connections with the EU on IP matters. He is an ad personam member of the SACEPO Working Party on Rules, having previously served on the Guidelines Committee; he is also on the SACEPO Quality Working Group ad personam. Externally he is a former president of the British group of the UNION of European IP Practitioners (UNION) and an honorary visiting Professor at Queen Mary University of London Commercial Centre for legal studies.

Professionally he has been in the business since 1990 and qualified for nearly 30 years and has handled hundreds if not thousands of European patents applications together with multiple oppositions and litigation in various roles.

I have served two 3-year terms on epi Council and would be pleased to continue in this role if elected for another term.

I bring an in-house Pharma, Global Health and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI)) perspective to the epi Council and to the work of the epi.

I am a member of the EPPC Pharma Group which meets annually with EPO’s DG1 to discuss and influence Pharma patent prosecution matters, including the effect of G decisions such as G2/21. I have 23 years’ in-house experience in the Pharma sector at GSK as a Senior EP and UK Patent Attorney. My main expertise lies in small molecules (medicines); I have a PhD in Organic Chemistry and I currently provide overall IP support for pipeline and marketed Pharma assets, including development of IP strategies. I have extensive experience in Access to Medicines IP Strategies for the Global Health space, particularly medicines for developing world diseases such as tuberculosis and malaria, working with external academic and industry collaborators and with NGOs.

I am passionate about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) in the patent profession. I have led a number of outreach activities, including organising and leading Legal Careers Days and co-leading Legal Internships for students from less-advantaged backgrounds. I have brought that passion to epi and since 2022 I have been part of the epi D&I Working Group, soon to become a DEI Committee. Amongst our many activities I campaigned strongly among epi Council members from many countries, to maintain equity and fairness in the EQE entrance requirements, to enable bright students from all backgrounds to enter our European patent profession. There is much important ongoing DEI work to do to support epi members and their clients, as well as epi students, and I would be proud to be part of DEI during another term on epi Council.

C.V.

University of Bristol, Honours Degree in Chemistry (with Biochemistry) - 1983-1986
CIPA Vice President in 2025 (will be CIPA President in 2026)
UK member of epi Council since 2005
epi Biotech Committee Chair: 2023 – to date (Secretary from 2006)
epi Disciplinary Committee: 2003 – 2011
epi Professional Conduct Committee: 2011 – 2015
epi Member of SACEPO: 2011 – 2017
epi By Laws member: 2017 to date
epi Patents Committee (working group): since 2021

I specialise in Life Sciences and have a wide range of experience in various professional bodies, in CIPA as well as the epi, at the top level. I have similar roles to those at CIPA in the epi. I Chair the epi biotech committee and thus attend epi Board meetings. The epi is an important ally for CIPA -a lot of our work is before the EPO and I want to strengthen ties with the epi, increase co-operation and communication between the two bodies and ensure that the epi functions well and in our interests.

Education is critical, in particular with the big changes to the EQE. The epi should continue to assist, train and educate candidates, so that we maintain the enviable high level of success EPAs and CPAs have across the world.

The UPC system has got off to a good start and presents UK attorneys with a once-in-a-generation opportunity to become expert court representatives, especially as the system has strong EPO similarities. We should embrace the UPC, use it to develop our businesses and skills, and deploy those for the benefit of our clients and employers.

I will work to obtain greater influence with at the EPO. I want the epi to become more persuasive and important, to the benefit of both EPAs and applicants alike. We should continue to encourage the EPO to consult with and listen to epi, to act on our advice and to engage in constructive consultation with us, in particular on future practice and legislative changes that can considerably affect our business.

The epi disciplinary system is undergoing an overhaul and I am well placed to ensure that the new system benefits us all.

Thank you for considering my candidacy and for re-electing me as one of your epi Council members.

Vassiliki (Lila) Bakatselou
- Attorney at Law before the Supreme Court and the Council of State of Greece, Member of the Bar Association of Thessaloniki, Managing Partner at “Venizelos and Partners-Law Firm”, with extensive national and international professional experience in a wide range of areas, including Civil, Commercial, IP law and Mediation.
- European Patent Attorney (1987).
- EPI Council Member since 2003.
- EPI Board Member for Greece from 2011 to 2017.
- Member of the European Community Trade Mark Association (E.C.T.A., 1988-2022).
- Accredited Mediator (ADR Group UK and the Greek Ministry of Justice), Advanced training in Mediation (MATA UK, Harvard Negotiation Institute at Harvard Law School and CDS Washington DC).
- Member of the Committee of the Greek Ministry of Justice for the review of Μediation law in Greece (2014).
- President since 2002 of the Hellenic Society for Disabled Children, ELEPAP Thessaloniki- member of the Rehabilitation International, and Secretary General of the above (ELEPAP-1994-2002).
- Founding Member of Action Aid in Greece.
- Languages: Greek (Mother tongue), English, French, Italian and German.

Former EPO Director and examiner, I practice as European Patent Attorney since five years mainly in Greece, a country with low IP activity and low numbers of paternt applications.
My aim is to contribute in creating an IP culture and consience in my country and bring more engineers and scientists in our profession.

I qualified as a European Patent Attorney in 2013. Since 2014, as a member of the Professional Education Committee, I have promoted the Candidate Support Program, which has benefited a new generation of EPAs in Greece. Over the years, I have supported many candidates in their qualification process.

In the last Council term, I was part of the team that prepared the proposed REE/IPREE amendments on the technical qualifications for the EQE, This role gave me the opportunity to liaise with many council members and EPO representatives, deepening my understanding of the EPO-epi interactions. I would like to build on that experience in the next Council term.

Member of EPI since 1999 and active member in committees and lecturing since 2007. Having worked in EPO and being Director general of the Greek patent granting authority (OBI)

Konstantinos Vavekis is an EQE Qualified European Patent Attorney with extensive experience in the protection of Industrial Property, in the economic valuation and in the commercial exploitation of inventions and research results. He is the Head of Opertaions of PRAXI Network (ex. Director), the largest innovation agency in Greece, a unit of Foundation of Research and Technology Hellas with key national policy roles and connection to the Ministry of Development and the Commission. He is also the founder and CEO of EUGLOTITA Single Member PC, an established IPR consulting company offering IP protection and IP valuation services. He has worked in the banking and finance sector for over 13 years in team leading positions and has many years of experience in Technology Transfer, in creation and funding of SMEs and in commercialization of Research results. He has a PhD in Physical Chemistry (UK), holds a BSc in Chemistry, an MBA (GR), an LLM in the Law of the Economy and of the Enterprises (CY) and also a Masters in Accounting and Finance (GR). He is also a Certified Mediator under the Greek Ministry of Justice. He is the principal investigator in 24 European Projects. He is also certified as a licensing professional from LESI (CLP Certification

European and Greek Patent Attorney with over ten years of experience in patent prosecution, strategic IP portfolio management, and Freedom-to-Operate analysis in the industry.
As Senior Patent Manager at BIC Group and current epi Council full member, I wish to continue representing European Patent Attorneys residing in Greece, fostering collaboration within the profession, and promoting excellence and ethics in European patent practice.

Tomislav Hadzija

PERSONAL

Born: May 21, 1977

Residence: Zagreb, Croatia

E-mail: [email protected]
[email protected]

EDUCATION

Attorney at Law
European Patent Attorney
European Trademark and Design Attorney
Certified Patent Attorney with SIPO of Croatia
Certified Trademark Attorney with SIPO of Croatia

- Graduated at the Faculty of Law, University of Zagreb, LL.B.
- Master of Intellectual Property Law and Management (CEIPI), LL.M.

WORK EXPERIENCE

Member of the Croatian Bar Association since 2008

2013 – Present Attorney at Law in cooperation with Dennemeyer & Associates
Global Head of Trademark Practice at Dennemeyer & Associates
Areas of practice: Trademark Law, Patent Law, Copyright, Industrial design
Intellectual Property (I.P.) drafting, filings, prosecution, and litigation
IP Management Counsel for R&D Institutes
IP due diligence
Parallel imports
Corporate and Commercial Law


2010 – 2013 Attorney at Law at KORPER & Partneri LLP
Areas of practice: Trademark Law, Patent Law, Copyright,
Intellectual Property (I.P.) drafting, filings, prosecution, and litigation
I.P. Management Counsel for R&D Institutes
I.P. due diligence
Antitrust
Parallel imports
Corporate and Commercial Law
Contract Law
Insolvency and Bankruptcy Law
Civil Litigation


2007-2009 Attorney at Law at Sikiric & Hadzija Attorney Partnership
Areas of practice: Trademark Law, Patent Law, Copyright, Corporate and Commercial Law, Corporate and Commercial Law, Contract Law,
Insolvency and Bankruptcy Law, Civil Litigation

2006-2007 Associate at Dr Sikiric Law Offices
Areas of practice: Trademark Law, Patent Law, Copyright, Corporate and Commercial Law, Contract Law, Insolvency and Bankruptcy Law, Civil Litigation


2005-2006 Legal Trainee at Hanzekovic & Partneri Law Offices
Areas of practice: Practicing general civil matters, Legal training in civil corporate and commercial law, Insolvency and Bankruptcy Law, Civil Litigation


PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIP

• EPI Council member – HR national representative for the 2023-2026 term
• EPI EPPC member - HR national representative for the 2023-2026 term
• President of Croatian Chamber of Patent and Trademark Attorneys for the 2023-2026 term
• INTA member
• INTA “Law Firm Committee” for the 2024-2026 term
• PTMG Member
• AIPPI member 2025
• Member of Croatian Bar Association
• Vis Moot Alumni Zagreb

PROFESSIONAL RECOGITIONS
• WTR 1000 – 2017 – 2025
• WTR Global Leader 2025
• The World's Leading Trademark Professionals 2017 - 2025
• Chambers Europe; Croatia - leading individual 2014 - 2025


LANGUAGES

Fluent in Croatian and English


PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Tomislav is managing Dennemeyer & Associates operations in West Balkan countries. In his role as head of the Croatian office, a 15+ person team, Tomislav handles various trademark and patent prosecution matters for foreign and domestic clients before the Croatia IP office and various regional IP matters.

Tomislav Hadzija has been active in the field of IP since 2005.

Education
Mag. engineer of Food Engineering
Qualifications
Certified Patent Attorney with SIPO of Croatia
European Patent Attorney
Certified Trademark with SIPO of Croatia
2025 – Patent Attorney in cooperation with Dennemeyer & Associates
2024 – 2025 - In-house Patent Attorney | Hikma d.o.o. | Zagreb, Croatia
IP strategy, FTO positions, patent application drafting, managing patent portfolio, Assisting Business Development and Sales and Marketing by assessing timing and risk of launches, Patent due diligence; In-house education related to IP
2018 – 2024 - In-house Patent Attorney | Xellia d.o.o. | Zagreb, Croatia
IP strategy, FTO positions, patent application drafting, managing patent portfolio, Assisting Business Development and Sales and Marketing by assessing timing and risk of launches, Patent due diligence; In-house education related to IP
2004 – 2018 Patent Attorney | Vukmir and Associates, Attorneys at law | Zagreb, Croatia
Drafting patent applications, patent prosecution before the Croatian State Intellectual Property Office, the European Patent Office and the WIPO, performing freedom to operate/patentability searches and opinions, nullity proceedings
Languages
Fluent in Croatian and English
Ivona has been active in the field of IP since 2004.

Patent Attorney within the Dennemeyer & Associates Croatia team, active in the field of IP since 2004.
Chemist by background with over 15 years of experience in the area of IP. Before joining Dennemeyer & Associates 2017, I was working for multinational pharmaceutical company and research institutes.

Sanja Vukina is an Attorney at Law and European Patent and Trademark Attorney with over 30 years of experience in intellectual property (IP) law. She is the Founder and Managing Partner of Vukina & Partners, a boutique law firm based in Zagreb, Croatia, renowned for providing high-quality services in all areas of IP protection.
For the past four years, Sanja has served as President of AIPPI Croatia and as Secretary of the Croatian Chamber of Patent and Trademark Attorneys, as well as an EPI Council Member and member of the EPI Litigation Committee. Throughout her career, she has developed extensive expertise in IP matters across a wide range of industries, with particular strength in medical devices and pharmaceuticals.
Her practice focuses on litigation, patent prosecution, invalidation, and IP counseling, with a strong emphasis on chemistry and life sciences. In addition to patents, Sanja provides comprehensive legal services in trademark and industrial design protection, and she has significant experience in data protection and regulatory compliance.
Sanja was honored with the Client Choice Award in 2017 for her outstanding ability to deliver real value to clients’ businesses, and in 2025, IP STARS recognized her among the Top 250 Women in IP globally.
As a long-standing advocate for professional excellence and collaboration within the IP community, Sanja is deeply committed to advancing the quality and accessibility of IP services in Croatia and across Europe. Through her engagement with professional bodies and her extensive practical experience, she aims to contribute to the EPI Council’s mission by promoting high ethical and professional standards, supporting knowledge exchange among practitioners, strengthening the role of European patent attorneys in an evolving innovation landscape, and representing the interests of Croatian EPI members within the Council.

During my first term as a substitute member, I gained valuable insight into epi’s work and actively contributed to its activities.

At my initiative, the Hungarian constituency began publishing brief summaries of each Council meeting on the epi Forum for our Hungarian members. My involvement also enabled me to invite foreign speakers to conferences of the Hungarian Chamber of Patent Attorneys, advancing knowledge exchange and international collaboration.

I am committed to shaping epi’s future and using my experience I gain to support the Hungarian patent attorney community.
With your support, I would be honored to help guide our profession through these transformative times.

I hold a technical degree in pharmacy and a Master law degree. I have spent my entire career as an in-house patent professional at pharmaceutical companies—Gedeon Richter, EGIS Pharmaceuticals, and currently EUROAPI. I became EPA under the ‘grandfather clause’ and later decided to pass EQE to further deepen my expertise. Since 2019, I have been actively worked in the Hungarian Chamber of Patent Attorneys—initially as a member of the Presidential Board, and since 2024, serving as Vice President.
My passions are networking and ice hockey.

Bertalan Horváth was born in 1982 in Hódmezővásárhely, Hungary. He studied physics at the Budapest University of Technology and Economics, and graduated with a summa cum laude M.Sc. degree in physics in 2006. He continued his studies at the Doctoral School of Physical Sciences of said University and obtained his Ph.D. degree in 2012. His thesis was about nanotechnology.

Dr. Bertalan Horváth started his career in the field of industrial property with Gödölle, Kékes, Mészáros & Szabó in 2010. He passed his Hungarian patent attorney examination in 2013 and his European Qualifying Examination in 2016. He is also a professional representative before the European Union Intellectual Property Office. He became a partner of the firm in 2019. Dr. Horváth has considerable expertise in the field of inventions relating to physics, software technology and artificial intelligence.

Dr. Horváth is a member of the Hungarian Chamber of Patent Attorneys and a member of the Examination Board for Patent Attorneys in Hungary. He is a substitute member of the Council of the Institute of Professional Representatives before the European Patent Office (epi). Furthermore, he is a member of the Hungarian Association for the Protection of Industrial Property and Copyright (MIE), and the International Association for the Protection of Industrial Property (AIPPI) and the Hungarian Group of AIPPI.

Marcell Kereszty was born in 1969 in Budapest, Hungary. He studied electrical engineering in Budapest, Hungary and Vienna, Austria and graduated from the Technical University of Budapest in 1992 with a M.Sc.Elec.Eng. degree. In 1997 he received his second degree in economics from the University of Economics of Budapest. After working some years as an engineer he started his career in the field of industrial property with Gödölle, Kékes, Mészáros & Szabó in 1996. In 1998 he received his postgraduate diploma in industrial property law. He passed his patent attorney examination with distinction in 1999 and became a partner of the firm in 2002. From 2003 he is a European patent attorney, and from 2004 a professional representative before the European Union Intellectual Property Office. In 2005 he received his summa cum laude Doctor of Law degree from Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest. Dr. Kereszty has considerable expertise in the fields of prosecution and disputes concerning computer-related inventions, trademarks, designs and copyright.

Dr. Kereszty is a member of the Hungarian Chamber of Patent Attorneys and was the President of the Chamber from 2019 to 2025. He is a member of the Hungarian Body of Copyright Experts and of the Hungarian Body of Experts on Industrial Property, appointed by the Minister of Justice, in the latter he is a member of the Presidency. Furthermore, he is a member of the Hungarian Association for the Protection of Industrial Property and Copyright (MIE) and a member of the Presidency of the Hungarian Trademark Association.

Dr. Kereszty is a member of the International Association for the Protection of Intellectual Property (AIPPI), the International Federation of Intellectual Property Attorneys (FICPI) and the German Association for the Protection of Intellectual Property (GRUR). He has been the President of the Hungarian Group of AIPPI since 2014. He is a substitute member of the Council of the Institute of Professional Representatives before the European Patent Office (epi).

Dr. Kereszty obtained the Jedlik Ányos Prize in 2012 (an award given by the President of the Hungarian Intellectual Property Office for outstanding accomplishments in protection of industrial property) and the Somlai Tibor Prize in 2016 (an award of the Hungarian Chamber of Patent Attorneys). In 2015, 2018, and 2021 and 2024 the President of the European Patent Office appointed Dr. Kereszty ad personam as a member of the Standing Advisory Committee before the EPO (SACEPO).

2009 PhD Biology Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
2017 Hungarian patent attorney
2018 European patent attorney
Member of the Biotechnology Committee
Partner at Danubia Patent & Law Office, LLC, Budapest, Hungary (since 2013)

EDUCATION:
M.S. biotechnology, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS:
European patent attorney Hungarian patent attorney
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
Danubia Patent & Law Office, since 2001
Experienced in patent drafting, prosecution, oppositions and appeals, as well as litigation in the fields of biochemistry, medical diagnostics and biotechnology, particularly with regard to DNA manipulation and the development of DNA-based diagnostic devices. Currently in charge of every aspects of Supplementary Protection Certificates, including prosecuting rights before the Hungarian Intellectual Property Office and representation before Hungarian and European courts.
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS:
epi council

I am a chemist by qualification, and I started working for Danubia Patent Office in 2013, I am a qualified EP patent attorney since 2017. I was an associate member of EPPC Chemistry subcommittee between 2017-2020 and a full member between 2020-2023. I have served as a full member of the main EPPC group in the past term. I would like to continue working in Council in the next term.

I am a Hungarian and European Patent Attorney, member of the Board from 2020 as Deputy Treasurer and from 2023 as Treasurer

Ferenc Török MSc. LLB.
Managing Partner/DANUBIA Patent and Law Office
Registered European- and Hungarian Patent Attorney, Lawyer

Ferenc is a specialist in chemical inventions and also deals with Hungarian and international patenting and enforcement matters relating to such inventions.
He has been delivering lectures on international patenting within the framework of the candidate patent attorney training programme of the Hungarian Intellectual Property Office since 2012.
Prior to joining the predecessor company of Danubia Patent and Law Office in 1989, Ferenc spent four years working for the Patent Department of Richter Gedeon Chemical Works. He has been a partner in Danubia since 1992, a Member of the firm’s Advisory Board since 1994 and has been Deputy Managing Partner leading the Chemical and Biotechnology Department since 2012 and Managing Partner of Danubia since June 2025.
He obtained a degree in law from the University of Szeged in 2000.
He has been a Hungarian patent attorney since 1988 and a European patent attorney since 2003.
He graduated in chemistry from Eötvös Loránd University in 1985.
Ferenc Török was the recipient of the Ányos Jedlik Prize in 2013.
He was the President of the Hungarian Chamber of Patent Attorneys in 2013-2019.

Professional Memberships
» Hungarian Chamber of Patent Attorneys
» President of Disciplinary Committee of Hungarian Chamber of Patent Attorneys in 2007-2010
» Vice-President of the Chamber in 2010-2013
» President of the Hungarian Chamber of Patent Attorneys in 2013-2019 and member of the Presidency of the Chamber since 2019
» epi (Institute of Professional Representatives before the European Patent Office)
» Hungarian delegate on EPI Council since 2005
» epi delegate on Standing Advisory Committee before the European Patent Office in 2006-2011
» Vice President of the epi Litigation Committee in 2009-2021, since then a member of the Committee
» MIE (Hungarian Association for the Protection of Industrial Property and Copyright)
» EPLIT (European Patent Litigators Association) – Member of Board in 2014-2020
» Body of Experts on Industrial Property of the Hungarian Intellectual Property Office
» FICPI (International Federation of Intellectual Property Attorneys)
» Union (European Practitioners in Intellectual Property)
Principal Areas of Expertise
Hungarian and international patenting and enforcement matters relating to chemical inventions most notably in the fields of organic and inorganic chemistry, including organic macromolecular compounds, preparation and application of compounds, pharmaceutical products, polymer chemistry, enhanced oil recovery methods, electrolytic cells, waste water treatment and natural-based formulations

Conor is a Patent Attorney with more than 30 years’ experience.

His university education was in the field of electronic engineering and in a career primarily in private practice his work focused on the preparation and prosecution of electronics and software related cases both for local and larger multinational clients.

Conor also worked as an in-house senior patent attorney with IBM in the UK for a number of years where, as well as directly supporting product groups, he was involved in IP related contract support and licensing matters. Conor is also the inventor for IBM Patent No. US6459986.

Conor is a member of the Irish Association of Patent and Trade Mark Attorneys (APTMA); and a council member of the European Patent Institute (EPI).

On behalf of EPI, he has contributed to a number of updates to the EPO Guidelines for Examination as well as being a member of the ICT Thematic Group responsible for liaising with Directors of the EPO ICT Cluster and contributing to EPI Amicus Curiae briefs for EPO Enlarged Board of Appeal decisions in the ICT Space and finally contributed to the EPO quality assurance program (SQAP).

I have represented Ireland as a Full Member on epi Council for at least 25 years. During that time, I was also a Board Member representing Ireland (2011 – 2016). I have been a member of several epi Committees including PQC (now known as PEC) (1999 - 2004); EPPC (2005 - 2010); Litigation (Secretary 2008 – 2010); EPO Finances (substitute member 2008 – 2010); EPO Finances (full member 2011 – current); epi Information Editorial (2017 – current).

I have also been a member of the Executive Committee of the Association of Patent and Trade Mark Attorneys in Ireland for many years. During that time, I served as Secretary and Treasurer. In the years 2004 – 2007, I had the honour of being elected the Association’s 10th President.

I endeavour to attend all Council Meetings and Committee Meetings in order to ensure (a) a positive outcome for epi and for Ireland while (b) at the same time providing continuity of attendance.

If elected, I will continue to play an active rôle in Council and in any Committee on which I am a member.

With over two decades of experience in intellectual property law, I am honoured to seek your support for election to the EPI Council. My career spans senior leadership roles in both private practice and multinational corporations in both Ireland and the UK.

I have directed IP strategies for technology roadmaps, supported contracting with universities and government agencies, and overseen multi-million dollar budgets. I have experience of handling licensing, acquisitions, and compliance.

As a two-term full member and one-term substitute member of the EPI Council, I have a proven track record of representing the interests of Irish EPO representatives. My Council experience has equipped me with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our profession. I am committed to fostering innovation, upholding high standards of legal practice, and ensuring the EPI remains responsive to the evolving needs of its members.

I have also served on the Council of the Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys in the UK and am a current member of both CIPA’s Commercialisation Committee and the Computer Technology Committee, having contributed to CIPA’s response to the recent UK Government’s SEP’s Consultation.

I respectfully ask for your vote, confident that my experience, dedication, and collaborative approach will continue to strengthen the Irish voice in the EPI Council and advance the interests of the profession.

European Patent Institute (epi) substitute Council Member
European Patent Institute (epi) Professional Conduct Committee (PCC) Member
European Patent Institute (epi) European Patent Practice Committee (EPPC; Pharmaceuticals) Member

European Patent Attorney
European Trade Mark and Design Attorney
Registered Irish Patent Agent
Registered Irish Trade Mark Agent
Ph.D. (Molecular Oncology)
B.Sc. (Cell Biology & Molecular Genetics)
Pg.D. (Commercial Intellectual Property)
Pg.C. (Intellectual Property Litigation & Advocacy)
Association of University Technology Managers (AUTM) Member
Association of Patent and Trade Mark Attorneys (Ireland) Member

Donal represents academic institutes, start-up enterprises and emerging corporations from the healthcare, nutrition and medical device sectors in examination, opposition and appeal proceedings before the EPO, the EUIPO, the Irish Patents Office and the UKIPO.

As the only IP practitioner in Ireland to be certified in IP litigation and advocacy by the Nottingham Law School, Donal is uniquely competent to represent directly before the European Unified Patent Court (UPC). He is also a proficient advocate at oral proceedings, and familiar counsel before the Opposition Divisions and Boards of Appeal of the EPO.

Donal completed an undergraduate degree in cell biology and molecular genetics at University College Dublin and was conferred with a PhD in molecular oncology from the Queen’s University of Belfast.

Donal is recognised as one of the leading IP practitioners in the world by the World Intellectual Property Review (WIPR), noted as an IP Star by Managing Intellectual Property (IPSTARS), and acknowledged as world-class, private practice patent expertise by the IAM Patent 1000.

Prominent educational and professional bodies, including universities and the Law Society of Ireland, regularly curate Donal to speak on the subject of IP. He provides free-to-access mentoring to rising entrepreneurial ventures in accelerator and incubator hubs through Google for Entrepreneurs and has been a guest contributor to the peer-revered IPKat blog. Donal also authored the Practical Guide to Managing Intellectual Property & Confidentiality for Knowledge Transfer Ireland, the national body established to oversee the technology transfer system in Ireland.

I am a European Patent Attorney, a Chartered Patent Attorney and an Irish Patent Agent. I am also a European Trade Mark and Design Attorney and an Irish Trade Mark Agent. I am currently a member of the Council of epi, the EPPC and the Guidelines sub-committee.
I believe the epi is the primary representative body for the patent profession in Europe and contributes greatly to the development and education of the profession as well as to improvements in European patent law and practice.
I would greatly welcome the opportunity to represent Ireland in the next Council .

I graduated from Queen’s University Belfast with a First Class Masters degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering in 2013.

I joined FRKelly in Ireland in 2014 having worked for another IP firm in Belfast previously. My areas of expertise include electronics, telecommunications, control systems, physics, mechanics, and software-related inventions.

I have been a European Patent attorney since 2019. I became a partner in FRKelly in 2025. I am also a Chartered UK patent attorney.

I have drafted and prosecuted multiple patent applications at the EPO, UKIPO and USPTO over my 12 years experience in the profession.

European Patent Institute (EPI) Council Member
EPI Member of the Professional Education Committee
Chair of the Patent Laws Committee, Irish Association of Patent and Trade Mark Attorneys (APTMA),
European Patent Attorney
European Trade Mark and Design Attorney
Registered Irish Patent Attorney
Registered Irish Trade Mark Agent
Chartered Patent Attorney
BE (Electronics), MEngSc.

Sinéad advises clients on all aspects of patent law, including drafting, filing and prosecution of patent applications, as well as portfolio management and strategic intellectual property protection.
Sinead has extensive experience representing clients in examination, opposition and appeal proceedings before the EPO. Her technical expertise spans a diverse range of technologies in including communication systems, medical devices, construction materials, and software based innovations.

In addition to her client work, Sinéad serves as a Council Member of EPI, as a member of the EPI Professional Education Committee and as Chair of the Patent Laws Committee of APTMA.

I am an Irish Patent Agent and European Patent Attorney with extensive experience in intellectual property law. I currently serve as Senior Director of Intellectual Property at Bausch + Lomb. My work centres on protecting innovation in the medical device and pharmaceutical sectors, it includes strategic IP portfolio management, IP litigation and dispute resolution. My career is distinguished by the integration of rigorous technical and legal expertise, strategic in-house leadership, and a sustained commitment to upholding the highest professional standards in IP management.
I actively contribute to the profession, serving as Secretary of the European Patent Institute (epi) Litigation Committee, Substitute Member for Ireland on the epi Council, Liaison Member of the European Patent Practice Committee (EPPC), representing epi as a substitute observer at the UPC AC Meetings and as an observer at the EPO Convergence of Practice Working Group 12 on Double Patenting. I have contributed to various epi papers and publications including the epi Amicus Brief for G1/24.
I am also a member of the Association of Patent and Trade Mark Attorneys (APTMA), participating in both the UPC Committee and Patent Laws Committees.
I would very much like to have the opportunity to continue to serve and represent Ireland at epi Council for the forthcoming term. Thank you.

Partner at Arnason Faktor in Iceland,
Ph.D. in Chemistry,
President of the Icelandic Association of Patent and Trademark Representatives (FUVE),
Active member of epi (secretary of EPPC, member of the Disciplantry Committee).

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from the University of Iceland and a PhD in organic chemistry from the University of Toronto, Canada. I qualified as a European patent attorney in 2017 through EPO’s Candidate Support Program, where I was mentored by highly experienced epi tutors.

Since 2011, I have been working in-house, managing and protecting intellectual property by overseeing patent filings, conducting IP-guided development and FTO’s, advising on IP strategy, ensuring legal compliance and promoting innovation through training and awareness initiatives.

Within the epi, I began tutoring for the EQE in 2018 and served as a CSP coach for seven years, including three as a coach coordinator, giving back to the community that supported my own development. I have also served on Council since 2020 and the Professional Education Committee since 2017, contributing to projects focused on the education of future European patent attorneys, which is something I care deeply about.

Being part of the team that presented the proposed REE/IPREE changes to Council, especially those related to the technical qualifications for the EQE, was a rewarding experience which I can leverage into the next Council season. It offered valuable insights into the legislative process and the importance of collaborative efforts required to shape a meaningful change.

Additionally, I serve on the boards of the Association of Icelandic Patent Professionals and Auðna, Iceland’s Technology Transfer office. I also mentor startups through Klak, supporting IP awareness and innovation in the Icelandic entrepreneurial ecosystem.

CURRICULUM VITAE

Name: Gunnar Örn Hardarson (male)




Birth: Reykjavik, Iceland, 3 December 1959
Nationality: Icelandic

Business address: Arnason Faktor ehf., Gudrídarstíg 2-4, 113 Reykjavik, Iceland.
Phone: +354 540 0200, GSM: +354 862 8589
e-mail: [email protected]

Education: Mechanics (Vélvirki) 1980.
B.Sc. Mech. Eng. 1985, Technical University, Odense, Denmark.
Master of Law, Reykjavik University 2012 (ML Thesis on employee’s inventions).
Numerous IP seminars and courses.

Professional title: Managing Director, European Patent Attorney, European Trademark Attorney.

Language(s): English fluent, Danish fluent, Other Nordic (Norwegian and Swedish) good, German basic. Icelandic native.
Communication: High level both written and oral skills.
Computer skills: Excellent

Work: Arnason & Co. ehf., Patent Attorney 1985–1993, (Partner 1989-1993).
G. Hardarson ehf., Independent IP Counselling 1993–1996,
Marel hf., 1996–1998, In-house Intellectual Property Manager.
Arnason Faktor ehf. (A&P Arnason): 1998 – Managing Director – development and management of the firm with now 20 employees. Partner, European Patent Attorney as well as European Trademark Attorney, Number of Professionals: 8, whereof four are Patent Attorneys and four Trademark Attorneys. Number of assisting staff: 12. Drafted, filed and prosecuted a large number of patent applications in various technical fields, as well as being responsible for prosecution of national and regional phase patent applications including European Patent Applications derived thereof. Managed work on behalf of large and small Icelandic and International Corporation in all aspect of IP. Provided Icelandic and international corporations with general and specific counselling in Patents, Trademarks and other IP related matters in association with the creation, management, strategy, prosecution and enforcement of Patents, Trademarks and other IP related matters.

Other work: New Icelandic Patent Act (17/1991) drafting committee 1987-1989.
Patents and Competitiveness Committee of the Minister of Industry, 1998 – Chairman.
EPC/EPO membership preparatory committee by the Minister of Industry 2001–2002.
New IP Strategy for Iceland 2014-2016.
Epi council
Epi Disciplinary Committee
Gamathjonustan hf., Board of Directors 2010–2017.
Arnason Stellbrink ehf., - Managing Director.
Arnason Faktor Denmark Aps. – Chairman.

Teaching activity: In-house training and education of employees, lecturing at numerous seminars on IP related matters.

Publications: IP Value 2006, 2007, 2008, Patents in Europe 2005, 2009, 2013, 2015 (publications by IAM Magazine). Articles in Icelandic publications.

Domestic associations: Association of Icelandic Patent and Trademark Agents since 1989, Secretary 2001-2004.
Icelandic Group of AIPPI, President 1998–2002.
FEIS - Association of Icelandic Patent Professional.

Int. associations: epi, INTA
Board and Council member of epi (Institute of European Patent Attorneys) 2004-2010 and 2017-2020, and member of epi disciplinary committee until 2022. Disiplinary Board

I am a partner at Arnason Faktor in Reykjavik and have been working as a patent attorney in Iceland since 2002. I have previously been a member of the PQC committee and the Litigation committee. I have also previously served as a full member and a substitute member of Council.

Thorlakur Jonsson, Ph.D., European Patent Attorney


EDUCATION
April 1994 UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY Berkeley, U.S.A.
Ph.D., Department of Chemistry
• Study areas: Biophysical Chemistry, Enzymology, Bioorganic Chemistry
• Title of dissertation: Probes of Hydrogen Tunneling in Enzymes

May 1988 UNIVERSITY OF ICELAND Reykjavik, Iceland
B.Sc., Chemistry

WORK EXPERIENCE
2020-present KIPA AB Reykjavik, Iceland
Patent Attorney

2015-2020 ARNASON FAKTOR Reykjavik, Iceland
Patent Attorney and Partner

2004-2014 DECODE GENETICS Reykjavik, Iceland
Director of Intellectual Property and Project Leader Alzheimer’s Disease


2002-2004 A&P ARNASON (NOW ARNASON FAKTOR) Reykjavik, Iceland
Patent consultant


1996-2002 DECODE GENETICS Reykjavik, Iceland
Director of Population Genomics, Project Leader Alzheimer’s disease


1996 KAIROS SCIENTIFIC Santa Clara, U.S.A.
Research Scientist


1994-1996 MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY Cambridge, U.S.A.
Post-doctoral research


OTHER PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
2016-2021 Icelandic Research Council – Evaluation Board, Technology Development Fund
2015-2016 Member of Task Force that Developed an IP Strategy for Iceland on behalf of the Ministry of Industries and Innovation
2008-present Icelandic Representative, European Patent Institute (EPI) Board, Council and Biotechnology Committees
2008-present Chairman, Association of Icelandic Patent Professionals (FEIS)
2001-2004 European Commission - Icelandic Representative, Forum on Research Management in the Field of Genomes Research
1999-2001 Icelandic Research Council – Chairman of the Evaluation and Advisory Board for a Task Force on Informational Technology and Environmental Research
1999-2003 Vice-Chairman, Icelandic Chemical Society
1998-2001 Icelandic Research Council – Chairman of the Evaluation and Advisory Board on Biotechnology and Biological Resources

Professional titles:
- Engineer
- European Patent attorney
- European Trademark & Design Attorney
- European Patent Litigator
- Italian Patent attorney
- Italian Trademark & Design attorney

Memberships:
- board member of Italian Industrial IP Association (AICIPI)
- European Patent Attorneys Council member 2023-2026 (EPI)

EDUCATION:
- Master in intellectual property management at Bologna Business School (University of Bologna)
- Industrial Engineer at University of Bologna
- Ingénierie des Affaires at EPF Paris (France)


WORK EXPERIENCES:
2017-today
Executive Intellectual Property Manager
Piaggio Group (European leader in motorcycle sector with Vespa, Aprilia, Moto Guzzi, etc.)

2012-2017
Senior Patent Attorney
General Electric (world leader in advanced technology equipment and service)

2009-2012
Intellectual Property Expert
ENI (21st largest oil company in the world)

2007-2008
HR manager
Versalis (ENI’s chemical company)

2004-2006
Senior Organization Analyst
Versalis (ENI’s chemical company)

2003-2004
Organization and IT Expert
Snap-On Group (technological leader in automotive air-conditioning diagnosis)

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-tim-bast/

I am currently a member of the epi Council, to which I was first elected in 2017, after serving as a substitute member since 2014. I have been a member of the Professional Conduct Committee (PCC) since 2014, being its chair from 2015 to 2023; I am now its secretary.
As always, ethical issues are those to which I devote most of my efforts within epi. Since 2015, I have led the PCC in various projects to update the Code of Professional Conduct. Some of these projects have been completed: adaptation to the possibility of representation before the UPC in 2022; general linguistic revision and revision of certain specific rules in 2023. Further amendments to the code of conduct are currently being considered.
In 2023, I proposed first to the Board and then to the Council the establishment of a special working group to study the epi disciplinary system as a whole and propose a comprehensive review. Under my guide, the special working group has worked intensively and has presented a number of proposals to the Council. On the basis of these proposals, and in agreement with the EPO and the Boards of Appeal, a joint working group was formed this year which, with the support of a team of independent experts and of the epi special working group, is currently completing its work and will propose a new version of the Disciplinary Regulations.
I am now standing for re-election so that I can continue the work I have started, always in collaboration with my European colleagues.

45y in IP/patent word in industry, internationally. 40y from having taken and passed EQE. Experience in all IP/patent related matter eg Evaluation, litigation, agreement negotiaton, in addition to prosecution w/w direct representation of employer before EPO (including Oppo and BoA). Qualified USPTO in 1991. former segretary and chair of PQC, former VP epi Council, member of SACEPO Gen e Quality, VChair of Patent Group, Businesseuropa.

GIAN GIUSEPPE MASCIOPINTO
Born on 1946
E-Mail: [email protected], Tel. +39 3357669777
EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATION
University: Padova University degree: Electronic and Biomedic on 1972 (*)
Italian Patent attorney from 1998 N. 851 B
Court Expert before Turin Court from 2007
San Marino Patent Attorney from 2009
European Patent Attorney from 2009 N. 09228410
WORKING EXPERIENCE
Location: Vimercate (MILANO) Time Interval 1972-1984
Company: TELETTRA - Design and Manufacturing of telecommunication apparatuses
- Software development for supporting design of telecommunication networks;
- Support for introduction of apparatuses directed to design Printed Circuit Boards (PCB), Thick, and Thin Films;
- Support as expert in manufacturing processes of Printed Circuit Boards (PCB), Thick, and Thin Films.

Location: Ivrea (Torino) Time Interval 1984-2000
Company: OLIVETTI - Design and Manufacturing of Electro-mechanic and Electronic Systems
- Introduction and support of apparatuses for electronic design, in particular software design of Personal Computers and Printers;
- Introduction and support of apparatuses directed to design of Printed Circuit Boards (PCB);
- Start of activity related to Intellectual Property on 1994;
- Italian Patent Attorney from 1998;
- Filing of new patent applications as regards Telecommunication Apparatuses, Ink Jet Printers, Personal Computers and Electronic apparatuses;
- Prosecution of European and US patent applications on the above subject matter.

Location: Torino Time interval 2000-2004
Company: CSELT(now TILAB) - Laboratories of TELECOM ITALIA
- Filing of new patent applications as regards Telecommunication Apparatuses, Telecommunication Networks, and software for Telecommunication Apparatuses and Telecommunication Networks;
- Prosecution mainly of European, US, and JP patent applications on the above subject matter.

Location: Torino Time interval 2004-2015
INTERPATENT - Trade Mark & Patent Attorneys
- Filing and prosecution of Patent Applications;
- Court Expert before TURIN, and MILAN COURT

Location: San Marino Time Interval 2009-2015
RSM Patents & Trademarks SRL
- Filing and prosecution of Patent Applications;

Location: San Marino Time Interval 2016-(06)2017
BREMA SRL
- Filing and prosecution of Patent Applications;

Location: Seregno (MB) Italy Time Interval 2016 -2024
AL & PARTNERS
- Filing and prosecution of Patent Applications.

Location: None (Turin) Italy Time Interval 2025-Now
METROCONSULT
- Filing, Prosedution and Court Consultant

TECHNOLOGY EXPERIENCE
Telecommunication technology;
Computer technology;
Software development technology;
Administration of computers and computer networks;
Technology of printed circuit boards and integrated circuits.

FURTHER WORKING EXPERIENCE ON:
- EPI Council member from 2014 to 2017
- EPI Full member of Litigation Committee
- EPI Patent Practice Committee - Informatic
- EPI Member of Online Communications Committee
- Validity, infringement and non-infringement actions;
- Technical advices to Italian Judges in at least 14 IP matter lawsuits before Milan or Turin Court .
LANGUAGES
English : speaking and writing good
French: speaking and writing fairly good

Marina Mauro is a European and Italian Patent Attorney working in the Italian office of the firm Murgitroyd. Her core area of expertise lies within the field of organic chemistry. She has a focus on pharmaceutical drugs.
Marina has significant experience in developing and managing worldwide patent portfolios — including the preparation and prosecution of patent applications. She also advises on both patentability (opinion) and freedom to operate (FTO), in addition to Supplementary Patent Certificates (SPCs) in her role as a technical expert in patent and SPC litigations (to which she was appointed by Italian Judges). She manages Opposition and Appeal at the EPO and has experience in IP litigation in various Countries.
Marina is also a qualified European Patent Litigator, able to represent clients in front of the Unified Patent Court.
Having held in-house managerial positions at multinational pharmaceutical companies including GlaxoSmithKline and Bracco Group, Marina has a deep understanding of the Industry IP needs.
Marina’s scientific credentials include a Doctorate in Chemistry from the University of Milan and three years working as a senior scientist in the Prassis Research Institute. She has authored many scientific publications and is a named patent inventor. She is actively involved in lecturing on IP-related issues and tutoring for the Italian Qualifying Examination.
In the past years she contributed to the renovation of the Italian Patent & Trademarks Attorneys Institute as a member of its Council. Now, she is a full Member of the Disciplinary Board of the Institute.
In 2023 Marina was elected as a substitute EPI Council Member and appointed as Member of the EPI Disciplinary Committee

EDUCATION:
B.A. organic chemistry, Harvard University
M.Sc. IP law management, QMW, University of London
D.E.S.U. European patent litigation, University of Strasbourg
PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS:
European patent attorney
European trademark attorney
Italian patent attorney
Italian trademark attorney
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE:
Since 1995 at Modiano & Partners
Senior Partner
Currently head of the life science department and and European patents department
Extensive experience in patent drafting, prosecution,
oppositions and appeals, as well as litigation, opinion work, searches, due diligence, SPC law, competition law and regulatory law relating to the pharmaceutical field
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS:
epi council
European Patent Practice Committee
AIPPI
INTA
LES
FICPI
EPLIT
Italian patent and trademark attorneys' association
PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITIES:
Regular lecturer on IP and patent law at
- Universities (e.g. the Polytechnic University of Milan, Italy including the course that confers the European Patent Litigation Certificate and the course that prepares candidates for the Italian patent bar exam, and the University of Bologna, Italy);
- international conferences (e.g. the yearly Best Practices in IP conference in Tel Aviv, Israel; the EPO "Train the trainers" seminar and at the national seminars on EPC2000; the Aspen Institute conference on Women in Technology (Expo, Milan, Italy); the Women in Biotech conference (Munich, Germany);
Co-author of the book “Claims Limitation in Patent Litigation”;
Co-author of the book “Diritto industriale italiano”, i.e. a commentary on Italian IP law (Scuffi-Franzosi);
Co-author of the book “The EU Patent Protection: Lights and Shades of the New System” (AIDA);
Co-author of the book “European SPCs Unravelled: A practitioner’s Guide to Supplementary Protection Certificates in Europe”

Lavoro nel settore della proprietà industriale da circa venticinque anni. Dopo un lungo periodo in studi privati, da circa dieci anni opero in azienda, nel settore del packaging presso il gruppo IMA, dove gestisco portafogli brevettuali complessi e supporto lo sviluppo di strategie di protezione industriale a livello internazionale.

Attualmente sono membro supplente del Consiglio EPI e membro del Finances Committee, e mi candido come membro effettivo. Durante il mio mandato ho avuto modo di conoscere da vicino il funzionamento del Consiglio e l’importanza di un dialogo diretto e costruttivo con l’EPO, pur mantenendo sempre l’obiettivo primario di difendere la nostra professione e la qualità del sistema brevettuale europeo.

Intendo portare la mia esperienza ultra ventennale al servizio del Consiglio, contribuendo a garantire che l’EPI continui a rappresentare con autorevolezza gli interessi dei mandatari europei e a rafforzare il ruolo dell’EPI come interlocutore competente e indipendente dell’EPO.

Mechanical engineer, 22 years of experience as patent attorney, international experience, litigation, client management, staff management.

Paolo Rambelli is a European Patent Attorney practicing in Italy with the firm Jacobacci & Partners, in the chemical and pharmaceutical field; although formally retired, he is still professionally active and member of the Board of Directors of the firm.
Paolo has extensive experience in IP litigation and has acted as ex parte and ex officio technical Counsel before the Court of Torino and Milano in several national and multinational patent litigations
Paolo has lectured extensively on IP matters with a particular focus on Opposition, Appeal and Oral Proceedings before the EPO, as a tutor for CEIPI, epi and the European Patent Academy.
He is a contract professor with the University of Torino, Faculty of Biotechnology, currently teaching the graduate course “Management of Biotechnological Companies”, which focuses on Intellectual Property matters.
Since 2011 (and currently) Paolo has been a full Council member for Italy and has served as Chair of the epi Professional Education Committee in the period 2011- 2020; he is currently a member of the CPE sub Committee.

I am Elena Rossetti, a European Patent Attorney with a background in industrial chemistry. Having served as a substitute member of the EPI Council for the term 2023–2026, I have gained valuable insights into the workings of the Council and the importance of active participation. I am now standing for election as a full member to continue contributing to the advancement of our profession.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Since March 2020, I have been serving as a Senior Patent Attorney at LyondellBasell Industries in Ferrara, Italy, with a strong track record in polymer technologies and cross-border collaborations. Prior to this, I worked in private practice at Bugnion SpA from 2014 to 2020, gaining valuable experience in patent drafting and prosecution. From 2006 to 2014, I was a Patent Attorney at a local chemical company, Metco Srl. My career in intellectual property began in 1999 and includes various roles that strengthened my expertise in the field.
SCIENTIFIC EDUCATION
I hold a Degree in Industrial Chemistry from the University of Bologna, Italy.
AFFILIATIONS AND MEMBERSHIPS
I have been a qualified European Patent Attorney since 2008 and an Italian Patent Attorney since 2004. I am an active member of EQE Committee (ECIII) since 2022.

Dear colleagues,
I am writing to submit my application for the role of full representative of the patent attorneys - Other capacity before the EPI.
I was elected as a full member - Other capacity for the 2023-2025 Council mandate. Over these years, I dedicated myself to this role with commitment and consistency, actively participating in all Councils and related meetings. This has allowed me to gain knowledge of the dynamics of representation and a deeper understanding of the needs of both the industrial sector and the Italian-nationality EP patent attorneys.
I strongly believe in the value of representation and the responsibility it entails. For this reason, I have consistently ensured a reliable presence and a collaborative spirit.
My professional experience, combined with my familiarity with the issues dealt with by the EPI, now allows me to offer a concrete vision focused on continuous improvement, which will be strengthened by continuity in this role. I remain strongly motivated to carry this work forward and to promote constructive and inclusive dialogue.

Professional Experience:
2022 IP Manager at Fresenius Kabi Ipsum srl, Milano (pharmaceutical company)
2020 – 2022 Patent Attorney at Cantaluppi and Partners srl, Padova (IP firm)
2019 – 2020 IP Manager at Stevanato Group Pharmaceutical Systems, Padova (Company producing systems, processes and services for the pharmaceutical industry)
2014 – 2019 Patent Attorney at Basell Poliolefine Italia srl, LyondellBasell group, Ferrara (plastics, chemicals and refining company)
2012 – 2014 Intellectual Property Head at Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova (Research Institute)
2006 – 2012 IP professional and Polymer R&D team Leader at CIVEN and Nanofab scarl, Venezia (Research Institute)

Education:
2021 European Patent Litigation Certificate – Master class in patents, University of Milan
2014 University of Washington School of Law, Center for Advanced Studies & Research on IP
& Dresden University of Technology – Transnational Intellectual Property Program
2008 – 2009 Master in Intellectual Property Management at Alma Graduate School – University of
Bologna
2003 – 2005 PhD in Chemistry at Scuola Normale Superiore, Pisa, in cooperation with Pirelli Labs
1996 – 2002 Industrial Chemistry degree at University of Pisa

Qualifications:
- European Patent Attorney
- Qualified to act as a Representative before the Unified Patent Court
- Italian Patent Attorney

Memberships and Appointments:
2015 – today Member of Italian Industrial IP Association (AICIPI)
2023 – 2025 European Patent Attorneys Council full member (Other Capacity)
2023 – 2025 Member of the EPI EPPC - Chemistry
2013 – 2014 Member of Italian Patent Information Users Group (AIDB)

Mag. iur. Dr. rer. nat. Dr. oec.

2004 EQE
2005 Liechtensteinische Patentanwaltsprüfung
2008 Deutsche Patentanwaltsprüfung

2020-2026: Full member of the epi Council for LI
2014-2020: Substitute member of the epi Council for LI
2013: EQE
Dipl.-Ing. (TU München)
Dipl. NDS ETH Intellectual Property

Dipl.-Ing. TU-Vienna
EQE 2013

2019 - qualified as European Patent Attorney
2020 - present: member of Biotech Committee representing LT
2023 - present: substitute member of epi Council representing LT
2023 - present: substitute member of Professional Education Committee representing LT
I am also a Lithuanian Patent Attorney. My technical background is biochemistry (MSc at Vilnius University). Up to 2023 I have worked in-house, as IP Manager and Patent Attorney. I now work in private practice, mainly with chemistry and biotech patents.

Education:
2007-2013 Vilnius University, Faculty of Chemistry, Bachelor's and Master's degree in Biochemistry
2019 obtained a qualification of Lithuanian Patent Attorney
2021 obtained a qualification of European Patent Attorney (EQE, all papers passed in 2021)
2023 - LegalTech LL.M at Mykolas Riomeris university

Employment and professional experience:
2013-2021 Thermo Fisher Scientific Baltics, UAB - Intellectual Property analyst
since 2021 Thermo Fisher Scientific Baltics, UAB - IP attorney
since 2020 Vilnius university Life Sciences center - lecturer, Intellectual Property

I am an in-house patent attorney/IP manager working in biotechnology industry providing IP support for synthetic biology and molecular biology business segments on various intellectual property aspects. Since 2020 I am also a part-time lecturer of intellectual property modules for life sciences students at the university.

1983 – 1988 Vilnius university, specialization of ECM mathematical equipment.
2005 – 2007 Mykolas Romeris university, Masters of law degree.
2002 – license of Lithuanian Patent Attorney.
2004 – license of European Patent Attorney.
2018 - EQE qualified European Patent Attorney
2018 - present: member of EPPC Committee representing LT
2022 - present: member of epi Council representing LT
2023 - present: substitute member of Litigation Committee representing LT
I work as the Patent Attorney and Managing Partner in private practice in AAA Law, Lithuania.

European and Lithuanian Patent and Trademark Attorney

Name: Jurga Petniunaite
Company: AAA Law
Area of practice: Patents, trademarks

Education:
• 1988 – 1993 Vilnius Pedagogical University, Nature and Geography faculcy, Chemistry and applied activities speciality. Master’s degree in Chemistry.
• 2005 – 2007 Mykolas Romeris university. Master’s of law degree.
• 2002 obtained a license of the Lithuanian Patent Attorney.
• 2004 became European Patent Attorney
• 2009 national trainer certified by European Patent Institute.
• 2018 qualified European Patent Attorney (EQE)

Employment and professional experience:

Patent attorney Jurga Petniunaite has been working in the AAA Law Firm since 1993.

Jurga Petniunaite is a European Patent attorney, Patent Attorney of the Republic of Lithuania, Community Trademark and Design Attorney. Jurga specializes in patent search and patent drafting in the field of chemistry and biotechnologies. She is responsible for preparing and filing patent applications via PCT and EPC system, and later to deal with all formalities and communications from the EPO examiners. Also represents the clients in the disputes on trademarks, designs and patents at the Lithuanian State Patent Bureau, the European Patent Bureau, the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and courts.

Memberships in organizations and societies:

Member of European Patent Institute (EPI)
Member of European Communities Trade Mark Association (ECTA)
Member of International Trademark Association (INTA)
Member of Association Internationale pour la Protection de la Propriété Intellectuelle (AIPPI), President of Lithuanian Association of Patent Attorneys

I'm a European Patent Attorney, Conseil en propriété industrielle (Intellectual property attorney in Luxembourg), European Trademark and Design Attorney and managing partner at Aronova S.A., a patent law firm in Luxembourg.
I hold a physics diploma from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zurich) and my technical focus lies on physics, mechanics, material science, and CII.
I have been a substitute EPI Council member for Luxembourg 2014-2017 and full member during the terms 2017-2020, 2020-2023 and 2023-2026. I have also been a member of EPI's Litigation Committee for a couple of terms.

Sigmar LAMPE
Legal Advisor IP and Licensing
Partnership, Knowledge and Technology Transfer Office
University of Luxembourg

Experience:
• Legal Advisor IP and Licensing at Université du Luxembourg, Esch/Alzette (LU), 2011 – Present
• European Patent Attorney at Marks & Clerk LLP, Luxembourg, 2005 – 2011
• European Patent Attorney at Dennemeyer & Associates s.a., Howald (LU), 2001 – 2005
• Patent Examiner at European Patent Office, The Hague (NL), 1997 – 2001
• Research Assistant at RWTH Aachen University, Aachen (DE) 1994 – 1997

Professional qualifications
• European Patent Attorney (2003)
• Benelux Trademark Attorney
• European Trademark Attorney
• Conseil en Propriété Intellectuelle (Luxembourg)

Organizations
• European Patent Institute (epi) member since 2003
– Council delegate for Luxembourg 2004-2008, substitute delegate since 2008
– Board member for Luxembourg 2004-2008
– European Patent Practice Committee 2004 to 2014
– – Vice-chair 2009-2011, 2011-2014
– – Secretary 2009-2011
– SACEPO 2011-2014
– SACEPO Working Party on Rules (WPR) 2009-2011, 2011-2014
– Professional Conduct Committee 2009-2011
• ASTP (Association of European Knowledge Transfer Professionals) Member since 2014, Vice-President Professional Development since May 2025
• Licensing Executives Society (LES) Member since 2002

Education:
RWTH Aachen University, Aachen (DE) Dipl.-Ing., Electrical Engineering (semiconductors) 1994

Languages:
English, German, French, Luxembourgish, Spanish, Dutch

Tiago Leal is an Physics Engineer working as an European-qualified Patent Attorney at IPSILON Benelux. In his role at IPSILON, he engages in patent search, monitoring, filing and prosecution, supporting clients across a broad technical spectrum, including product engineering, process engineering, advanced materials, physics, electronics and more.
Tiago began his career as a Patent Examiner at the Portuguese Institute of Industrial Property (INPI) and later worked as a Patent Engineer in Portugal before joining IPSILON.
Throughout his professional career, Tiago has actively contributed to intellectual property dissemination initiatives, regularly participating in outreach and educational presentations. He has been particularly involved in sessions aimed at academia, helping researchers, students, and university innovation teams better understand patent protection, IP strategy, and the value of safeguarding technological developments.

Education
09/88 – 06/93: Master in mechanical and electrical engineering of the University of Liège in Belgium;
09/93 – 09/94: Complementary education in automotive technology at the University (R.W.T.H.) of Aachen in Germany (Erasmus exchange);
2004: European Qualification Examination;
2007: Luxembourg Patent Attorney (“Conseil en Propriété Industrielle”);
2007: European Trademark and Design Attorney;
2009: Belgian Patent Attorney (“Mandataire agréé auprès de l’Office belge de la Propriété Intellectuelle”);
2016: European Patent Litigation Certificate at the University of Strasbourg;
2019: Qualified Patent Information Professional.

Experience
04/95-07/98: Member of the Engineering Division of the company Luxguard I S.A. in Bascharage, Luxembourg;
09/98-08/05: Patent Examiner at the European Patent Office in Munich in Directorate 2.4.21, Vehicles and General Technology;
08/05-11/07: Patent Attorney at the private practice Dennemeyer & Associates in Luxembourg;
11/07-02/23: Founder and owner of the private practice Lecomte & Partners in Luxembourg;
03/23-02/25: Consultant at the private practice Lecomte & Partners further to sale at Ipsilon Group.
04/25-now: Patent Manager at Rotarex S.A., Luxembourg

Languages:
French: mother tongue;
English: fluent;
German: fluent;
Dutch: passive knowledge.

Valérie Mellet is a European Patent and Trademark Attorney, as well as the Founding and Managing Partner of Patent42 S.A., a patent law firm established in 2014 in Luxembourg. With 25 years of experience in intellectual property, she has spent most of her career in private practice, with a brief period working in industry. Her main area of technical expertise is chemistry.

Beyond managing her firm, Valérie plays an active role in the European patent community. She has served on the Board of the Federation of Patent and Trademark Attorneys of Luxembourg (FCPIL) for the past ten years and is a member of both the Professional Education Committee and the Patent Litigation Committee. She also contributes to the SACEPO Working Group on Quality at the European Patent Office (EPO) and takes part in several SQAP sessions.

Outside of her professional commitments, Valérie enjoys photography and producing short films.

I am a European Patent Attorney and Intellectual Property Attorney in Luxembourg. I hold an engineering degree in Pharmacology & Biotechnology (Polytech Nice-Sophia) and completed the CEIPI diplomas in Patents and Trademarks & Designs (Strasbourg).

My career has been industry-focused across diverse technical fields — pharmaceuticals, polymers and flooring.

Since 2022, I have served as Patent Manager at Tarkett GDL SA, where I oversee global patent strategy and operations.

Pascal is a passionate European, Dutch and Belgian patent attorney. He holds Master’s degrees in Engineering (Utrecht) and in Intellectual Property Law and Management (Strasbourg).

He began his IP career in 2008 as a patent information specialist in private practice and has since worked for both SMEs and large industrial companies active in sectors such as automotive, heavy-duty vehicles, mobility applications (including bicycles and motorcycles), offshore, data centers, and other industrial markets. Throughout his career, Pascal has held IP leadership positions and served as a European Patent Attorney.

Since 2024, he has been employed at Gates Corporation in Luxembourg as Global IP Director.

Pascal’s motivation to join the EPI Council is to serve as an ambassador for European Patent Attorneys in Luxembourg and to represent their interests within the Council.

Jevgenijs Fortuna

Professional address:
FORAL Patent & Law Office
Kaleju iela 14-7, Riga, LV-1050, Latvia
Tel +371 67223450
E-mail: [email protected]

Education:
Bachelor of Science, Riga Technical University, 1997.
Master of Business Administration, University of Latvia, 1999.
Law Degree, University of Latvia, 2005.
Patent attorney of the Republic of Latvia – 2003.
European Trademark Attorney - 2004.
European Patent Attorney - 2005.
National trainer certified by European Patent Institute – 2009.

Professional
Active in the field of Intellectual Property since 1997. Practicing as patent & trademark attorney since 2003 (FORAL Patent & Law Office). Author of various publications in the field of IP.

Member of European Patent Institute (EPI), International Trademark Association (INTA), Association Internationale pour la Protection de la Propriété Intellectuelle (AIPPI), Licensing Executives Society (LES), Association of Latvian Patent Attorneys (LPPA).
President of Association of Patent Attorneys of Latvia since 2009.
Member of the Board of Latvian group of AIPPI.
Member of the Council of the Institute of Professional Representatives before the EPO.

I have been working in the field of intellectual property for 20 years, with a specialization in pharmaceuticals.
Since 2023, I have been a European Patent Attorney, having successfully passed all parts of the European Qualifying Examination (EQE) — including comprehensive training and certification in the A, B, C, and D papers.

My professional duties cover the entire patent life cycle: from evaluating inventions and conducting prior art searches, to assessing patentability, preparing and filing patent applications, and managing all related formalities before the EPO, WIPO, or national patent offices. I am also responsible for patent maintenance, validation, and preparing responses to examiners’ objections.

In addition, I handle patent infringement assessments, conduct patent landscape analyses to evaluate market entry risks for new products, and prepare evidence for potential infringement cases. My work also includes evaluating the scope of protection of patents and patent applications, as well as maintaining correspondence with patent attorneys and patent offices regarding intellectual property matters. I ensure that all necessary preventive measures are taken to protect IP rights against third-party infringements.

Since 2023, alongside my IP responsibilities, I have been Head of the Pharmaceutical Research and Intellectual Property Group. In this role, I am also responsible for organizing, planning, and supervising bioequivalence studies for medicinal products.

Graduated from Riga University of Technology in 1985 with a diploma in radio engineering. Working in the field of intellectual property matters since 1993 (Agency TRIA ROBIT). A qualified Latvian Patent attorney since 2001. European Patent Attorney since 2005 (under the grandfather clause).

Personal details
Name: Sami Amira
Address: SBM Offshore; 11 Av. Albert II - MC 98000 Monaco
Professional experience
2014-present: Patent advisor, SBM Offshore, Monaco
2010-2014: Patent advisor, Gevers Patents, Belgium
2009: Patent advisor, Bird Goën & Co, Belgium
2008: Teacher, IT Gymnasiet, Sweden
2005-2006: Researcher, Fritz-Haber-Institut der Max-Planck-Gesellschaft, Germany
2001-2005: Junior Researcher, Uppsala Universitet, Sweden
1998-2001: Junior Researcher, Universiteit Gent, Belgium
1997-1998: Junior Researcher/Administrator, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium
Education
2005 PhD Materials Chemistry, Uppsala University, Belgium
1997 Licentiate Modern History, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium
1993 Licentiate Physical Chemistry, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium
1989 Graduation, Latin-Maths, Sint-Jan Berchmanscollege, Belgium
Qualifications
European, French and Belgian Patent Attorney
Languages
Dutch, English, French, Swedish, German (all C1 or higher)

• European, Monegasque and French Patent Attorney
• MBA Paris Sorbonne
• Arts et Métiers Engineer (ENSAM Paris)


Nicolas Hautier advises many groups and SMEs on how to define their intellectual property strategy.
He has expertise in a variety of technical fields, particularly mechanical engineering, microelectronics and nanotechnologies, including FinFET transistors, FDSOI, silicon photonics, lithography processes, photodiodes, epitaxial growth and III-V materials. He also works on applications in physics, software, computer science, mechanics (construction, sports, robotics) and energy (photovoltaics, nuclear power, thermodynamics and storage) for industrial companies and research laboratories.

PROFESSIONAL APPOINTMENTS
Nicolas Hautier has been a substitute member of the EPI council for several years. For the last five years, he has been secretary of the ACPI, the French group of the FICPI, which has a global influence on IP.
He is regularly invited by institutes (INPI, IHEDN) and business support structures (CCI, incubators) to deliver lectures on patents. He also delivers several patent-related courses at engineering and business schools, as well as at master's degree programmes in IP.

Guenther Schmalz was born at Nuremberg, Germany. In 1985 Guenther obtained the Masters in electronic engineering (Diplom-Ingenieur Univ.) from the Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen, Germany.
Equally fascinated by Law Günther joined in 1986 Philips IP & Standards in Nuremberg. In 1991 Günther passed the German Patent Attorney Exam and in 1993 he passed the European Patent Attorney Exam. In January 2000 Guenther commenced working for Ericsson in Nuremberg as IP group leader. In October 2002, Guenther was head-hunted by SAP AG, the largest software company in Europe and third largest in the world. As IP strategist, he was in charge of the portfolio of “e-Commerce”. Within months, Guenther was promoted to the position of interim joint Chief IP Officer. Guenther reported directly to the Chairman and Managing Director and advised the Board on IP strategic and legal issues. At the same time Guenther was promoted to the position of head of the German patent department of SAP. From 2004 to 2005 Guenther lobbied against the proposed “European software directive”. He represented SAP at meetings with German politicians, the German Chancellor’s Office, the German Ministry of Justice, the European Commission and members of the European Parliament to defend SAP’s objectives.
In April 2007 Guenther left SAP to set up his own business. In 2008 Guenther obtained a masters of law CEIPI, Robert Schuman University of Strasbourg, France. Right after this “master en droit” he relocated to the Principality of Monaco and established his office in Monaco. In 2012 Guenther passed his exam at CEIPI to become awarded the diploma in European Patent Litigation (D.U. Contentieux des Brevets en Europe).
Guenther was a member of the Disciplinary Committee of the Institute of Professional Representatives of the European Patent Office (epi) before he had to renounce on this function when he was elected as a board member of the epi in 2010. Until 2023 Günther was an active member of the Litigation Committee.
On invitation of the German Ministry of Justice Guenther was from 2013-2015 an active member of the Examination Committee for German Patent Attorneys.
From 2014 to 2020, Günther served as "Of Counsel" for Withers & Rogers, one of England's oldest patent law firms, joining their team working for a multinational technology company, headquartered in Silicon Valley, which had become one of the most valuable and influential brands worldwide.
Günther is a council member for Monaco since 2010.

Dear EPI Members,

For the next term, i am very pleased and honored to submit my candidacy for the PEC committee once again and the EPI Council as substitute. It would be a privilege to continue contributing to the growth and influence of our European patent community.

As an IP Attorney and manager, I have had the opportunity to serve in various regions across the world—Europe (France, Germany, Great Britain, Finland, and Monaco), the United States (Texas and Washington D.C.), as well as in Asia (Singapore, Cambodia, and Taiwan). My professional journey has taken me through world-leading organizations such as Airbus Defence & Space, General Electric, Nokia, Texas Instruments, and IBM—companies that stand at the forefront of innovation, some of which have been honored with Nobel Prizes. Through these experiences, I have worked to strengthen patent portfolios, foster innovation ecosystems, and contribute to technological developments that benefit both the global economy and our daily lives.

Although Monaco is a small country, its diverse and international community provides a unique environment for innovation and investment. Together with my fellow MC members and peers, I hope to share my professional expertise and global perspective to advance the mission of the EPI organisation.

My vision is to help elevate the EPI to the next level—enhancing its visibility and engagement with other IP communities and organizations in the United States, East Asia, Southeast Asia, and South Asia. As a PEC member and a substitute Council member, I am committed to strengthening the EPI’s influence not only within Europe but also on the global stage—positioning it as a key player in addressing international IP challenges and shaping future policy dialogues.

Europe has historically been a cradle of innovation. Today, as we enter the Fourth Industrial Revolution, we must use IP as a driving force to reaffirm our leadership by steering, coordinating, reinvigorating and inspiring innovation across all European regions from East to West, North to South.

I deeply appreciate the time you have taken to read this statement. I look forward to meeting each of you and discussing how, together, we can take the EPI to new heights.

I am the Managing Partner of Lutovac & Partneri and currently the only European Patent Attorney in Montenegro. I have been working in the firm since 2008, and I passed the Bar Exam in 2014.

My work is focused on intellectual property and commercial law. I represent clients in trademark infringement cases, patent protection and patent disputes, acting for both local businesses and large multinational companies.

I have led and supervised actions against counterfeits, pirated goods and other IP infringements, before courts and through administrative proceedings. Alongside my IP practice, I advise clients on company establishment, fulfillment of commercial contracts, and debt collection.

I am a Macedonian patent and trademark attorney and the Executive Director of Berin IP Agency, with 20+ years of hands-on experience across patents, trademarks, designs, and IP strategy. I lead drafting, prosecution, translations, portfolio management, and valuation work, and I’ve supported universities, SMEs, and industry through consulting, training, and public presentations. My work includes building IP strategies for innovation projects and contributing to professional publications (including the North Macedonia chapter in European SPCs Unravelled). For community service and governance, I have served for several terms as a member of the EPI Disciplinary Committee and have served as both a full and a substitute member of the epi Council. I am motivated to bring this blend of practice, leadership, and outreach to the nomination.

Gjorgji Filipov was born in 1956 in Kavadarci, MK. He received his PhD in 1998 at the University "St. Cyril and Methodius" in Skopje, in the field of technical sciences on the topic: "Industrial property as an indicator of technological development", as well as Master's degree in 1985 at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering on the topic "Optimization of small nuclear power plants - optimization of the turbine plant". He graduated in 1981 at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering on the topic "Finite difference method for determining the spatial-temporal temperature distribution in a nuclear reactor fuel rod". He specialized in the areas of patent engineering, automation and automated production, management and marketing. In 2008 he became a patent attorney at the European Patent Office in Munich, in 1998, an industrial property attorney, while in 1993, he specialized in the field of development management at the University of Management in Stirling, Great Britain. In 1991, he had a study stay in the field of management of market-oriented enterprises, at the Karl Duisburg Society in Cologne, Germany. In 1989, for specialization in the field of robot production, he stayed at the Vukov Institute in Prešov, Slovakia. In 1988, he attended a specialized seminar on applied robotics with practical exercises in Rijeka, Croatia. In 1985, he had a three-month stay in Bonn, Germany, for specialization in the field of automated production, at the company Kleckner Müller Automation. Filipov speaks, writes and reads fluently: Macedonian, English, German, Serbian and Croatian, and also uses Bulgarian, Russian and French (reads and understands well, does not speak fluently, does not write). Regarding his professional career, Dr. Gjorgji Filipov was elected in 2009 to the title of titular associate professor for subjects in the field of Management at the Institute of Information and Communication Technology, at the University "St. Cyril and Methodius" in Skopje. He was Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the the Republic of Macedonia in Vienna. He performs the duties of Ambassador of the Republic of Macedonia to Slovakia (since January 2012), Japan (since May 2011), Austria (October 2010-2014). Before that, he was President of the Board of the Intellectual Property Agency in Berlin, Skopje, as well as Ambassador of the Republic of Macedonia in Berlin, Germany (2005-2010). In 2008, he was proposed as a candidate of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia for the position of Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization, Geneva, Switzerland. Until 2004, Filipov taught a group of subjects in the areas of Management in Information/Communication Technology as well as Management, Management and Marketing, International Marketing and Management of Industrial Property at the University "St. Cyril and Methodius", Skopje, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics and the Institute of Sociological and Political-Legal Sciences. From (2002-2004), he is a member of the Executive Committee of the International Federation of Inventors' Associations, Geneva, Switzerland, from (2001-2005), President of the Union of Inventors and Authors of Technical Improvements of Macedonia. In the period from (2000-2001) he was a consultant to the Government of the Duchy of Luxembourg on the Project for the Construction of a Technological Observation Center in Macedonia. Filipov is the founder and President of the Board of the Intellectual Property Agency Berin, Skopje, from 1999 to the present. In the period (1999-2004) he was an assistant professor in the subjects Marketing and Management of Industrial Property at the University "Sts. Cyril and Methodius", Skopje, Institute for Sociological and Political - Legal Sciences. Gjorgji Filipov was appointed the first director of the State Office for the Protection of Industrial Property, in 1993 and remained in that position until 1999. Before that from (1992-1993), he was the marketing director of Rade Končar - Aparatna tehnika Share Holding Co. , director and founder of the company "Berin, Marketing, Research and Development LTD" in Skopje. In the periods from graduation to 1992, he worked in the following positions: (1990-1992), Commercial Director of the company for welding, cuting and automation LTD, Skopje, (1989-1990), Director of the Company for Special Machines & Electronics, LTD in Rade Končar Share Holding , Skopje, (1987-1989), Head of the Automation Department (1983-1987), Development Engineer - Designer of Automation, , (1981-1983) and Mechanical Engineer Technologist in LTD Contactors Kontaktori in Rade Končar Share Holding Co., Skopje. In his career, he has been a member or chair of the following international bodies: 2007-, member of the Southeast Europe Society, Duisburg, Germany, 2006-, member of the German Foreign Policy Society, Berlin, Germany, 2005-, vice-president of the German Macedonian Association, Berlin, Germany, 2004, chairman of the Organizing Committee of the international seminar "The Practice of Industrial Property in the Candidate Countries for Membership in the European Union", Ohrid, Republic of Macedonia, 2002-, member of the Central European Copyright Association, Budapest, 1994-2004, member of the International Jury of the World Exhibition of Inventions, Industrial Research and Innovations, Bruxless. More on www.gjorgjifilipov.com.

Biljana Joanidis Velichkovska is founder of Joanidis Law Firm included in the management process of the business day-to day activity.
She is expert in Intellectual Property Law and unfair competition Law focusing particularly on Patents, utility models rights and Trademarks as well as unfair competition Law, including litigation, copyright law and Contract Law. Simultaneously her expertise extends to areas of Licenses, pharmaceuticals, data protection and data security, with all sorts of IP regulatory matters.
She has a degree in mediation and alternative dispute resolution .
She is member of the European Patent Institute (EPI) and MARQUES.
She is author of numerous article on IP and IT Law published in international journals, newspapers and magazines as well as World bank and has been supervisory of the articles given by other experts, upon the request of the editor.

Marija Kjoseska is a European Patent Attorney and Patent and Trademark Attorney with over 17 years of experience in intellectual property. As co-Founder and Managing Partner of Minerva IP Ltd in Skopje, North Macedonia, she leads a dynamic team recognised for delivering high-quality IP services across patents, trademarks, designs, and innovation management.
With an engineering background (Dipl.-Ing.) and a Master’s degree, LL.M. in Intellectual Property (CEIPI), Marija provides strategic advice and legal protection to innovative companies, universities, and industry. Her practice encompasses patent drafting, prosecution, translation, portfolio management, and comprehensive services in trademarks and industrial designs, with a strong focus on the Balkans and Europe. In addition to her professional practice, she contributes to the IP community through numerous publications, presentations, and leadership initiatives that promote knowledge sharing and professional development in the field.
Within the European Patent Institute (epi), Marija Kjoseska has served as both a full and substitute member of the epi Council and previously on the European Patent Practice Committee. She is currently an active member of the Professional Conduct Committee, contributing her expertise to support fair and effective professional practices. She is also an engaged member of ECTA and INTA, promoting greater consistency and collaboration in European IP practice.
Marija Kjoseska is dedicated to promoting professional ethics, collaboration, transparency, and education, while advancing diversity, gender equality, and the representation of Macedonian members within the epi community. Her focus remains on integrity, constructive dialogue, and fostering a strong, ethical, and collaborative professional environment.

Attorney from North Macedonia active in the field of IP for more than 15 years.

CURRICULUM VITAE

1. Family name: Pepeljugoski
2. First names: Valentin
3. Date of birth: 01/09/1962
4. E-mail: [email protected]
5. Address: St. Mito Hadzivasilev Jasmin no. 40/8, 1000 Skopje
6. Marital Status: Married
7. Education:
Institution (Date from - Date to) Degree(s) or Diploma(s) obtained:
Ministry of Justice, 2012 Certificate for Expert witness in the field of intellectual property law
European Patent Institute 25/12/2009 - current European patent attorney
University of Strasbourg (CEIPI) 26/03/2006-01/04/2006 Certificate of attendance
Univeristy of Ss. Cyril and Methodius Skopje Faculty of law Justinijanus Primus Skopje - 2003 PhD - Protection of Industrial Property Rights Against Unfair Competition in the Comparative and Macedonian Law
Commission for industrial property protection exam 09/07/1998 Certificate for industrial property representative
Ministry of justice of the Republic of Macedonia 1987 Certificate for passed bar exam
Salzburg Seminar 1995 Certificate of attendance
Hague academy of international law 1990 and 1991 Certificate of attendance
Univeristy of Ss. Cyril and Methodius Skopje Faculty of law Justinijanus Primus Skopje - 1989-1991 Masters of Law - M.Sc. in the field of International trade law
Univeristy of Ss. Cyril and Methodius Skopje Faculty of law Justinijanus Primus Skopje - 01/10/1981-20/10/1985 Bachelor of Law - LLB group civil and trade law
0.
6. Language skills: Indicate competence on a scale of 1 to 5 (1 - excellent; 5 - basic)
Language Reading Speaking Writing
English
(passed APTIS Test at the University Ss. Cyril and Methodius Skopje, Faculty of Philology Blaze Koneski in Skopje in 2015 with 84/100 point) 1 1 1
Serbian 1 2 2
Croatian 1 2 2
Bulgarian 1 2 3
German 4 5 4


7. Membership of professional bodies:
- European patent institute
- International trademark association
- Macedonian Bar Association
- Member of the examination board for the degree offered by University of Strasbourg (Centre for International Intellectual Property Studies) and the University of Ss. Cyril and Methodius Skopje Faculty of law Justinijanus Primus Skopje (2010 - 2012)
- Member of the examination board for industrial property representative 1994-2003
- Educator at the Academy for judges and public prosecutors of the Republic of Macedonia 2007 - present
- Associative member of the American bar association 1999 -2011
- Member of the commission for mediation in the field of the copyright and related rights in the scope of the Government of the Republic of Macedonia since 03/10/2005
- Member of the Presidency of the Permanent Elected Court Arbitration in the scope of the Macedonian Chamber of Commerce 2016-present
- Arbitrator at the Permanent Elected Court Arbitration in the scope of the Macedonian Chamber of Commerce
- Member of the Sports Arbitration Committee as an Arbitrator in the scope of the Macedonian Olympic Committee 2014-present
8. Other skills: (e.g. Computer literacy, etc.)
- Microsoft Office: Word, Excel, Power Point, Photoshop
- Driving license B category
9. Present position: Managing partner and owner at the Law office Pepeljugoski
10. Years within the firm: 18 years
11. Key qualifications: (Relevant to the project)
- Team Leader
- Communicative
- Talkative
- Sociable
- Capable of team working
- Efficient
- Thorough
- Capable of working under stressful conditions
- Capable of bringing decisions in all kinds of circumstances

12. Specific experience in the region
Country Date from - Date to
Macedonia

President of the working group of the Ministry of culture for amendments of the Law on copyright and related rights
September 2017 - present
Macedonia

Member of the working group of the Ministry of justice for amendments of the Law on notary public September 2017 - present
Macedonia (Skopje) - Expert

Project: Technical Assistance for State Office for Industrial Property - Establishing System for services and information exchange between SOIP and Industrial property stakeholders March 2015 - present
Macedonia

Editor of the editorial for intellectual property in legal magazine “Pravnik” issued by the Macedonia Lawyers Association 2007-present
Macedonia

Legal advisor of the Ministry of internal affairs 2015-2017
Macedonia (Skopje) expert,

GIZ, Project -
Regional Economic Development (RED)
PN: 09.2197.3-001.00
(Consultant of Macedonian Government in the field of innovation – Preparing Guides for Governmental Center/Found for Innovation
March 2014
Germany (Munich) - Member of the Board of European Patent Institute and council of European Patent Institute, Member of the permanent qualification and education committee 2011 – present


UNECE, USPTO and Academy for Judges and Public Prosecutors, Sub-regional Conference on Selected Intellectual Property Issues for Judges – Damages and IP Litigation – Macedonian Perspectives, Valuation, Competition, Antitrust, Skopje, 2012
IDLO, License Agreement, Skopje 2012
Macedonia
Member of the Commission for enacting intellectual property law strategy in the republic of Macedonia in the Scope of the State office for industrial property 2010-2012
Macedonia
Member of the legal counsel of the Macedonian Consumer Protection Organization 2010-2012
US Patent and trademark office (Tbilisi Georgia) - lecture on the topic of valuation of IPRs 2013
Macedonia (Skopje) - educational purposes in the field of intellectual property protection

TEMPUS - REGIONAL JOINT DEGREE MASTER IN INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LAW (144582 – TEMPUS – 2008 – MK – JPCR) 2008 - present
Macedonia (Skopje) - educational purposes

TEMPUS Common European project: Copyright and neighboring rights - Towards EU standards (TEMPUS JEP 2004) 2004-2008
Macedonia (Skopje) and Kosovo (Prishtina) - seminars for protection of IPRs in cooperation with Business software alliance organized by the American Chamber of Commerce 2005 and 2006
Serbia (Belgrade) - WIPO conference with presentation technology licensing Macedonian Experience in the practice 2005
Macedonia (Skopje) - educational purposes - TEMPUS Common European project: EU Industrial property Law - Institution buildings (TEMPUS JEP 17029-2002 2002-2004
Macedonia (Skopje) - USAID implementation of Law on Pledges

USAID project on New Bankruptcy Law in Macedonia

USAID project for preparing of regulations based on New Macedonian Law on electronic communications 1996-2005
0.

 

13. Professional experience
Date from - Date to Location Company & reference person (name & contact details) Position Description
1999 - present Skopje Law office Pepeljugoski Managing partner attorney at law
11/2007 - present Skopje FON University

University Ss. Cyril and Methodius: Faculty of law Justinijanus Primus Skopje

Faculty of economics Professor Teaching the following subjects: Intellectual Property, Copyright and Related rights, Competition Law, EU law and regulation
02/2005-12/2006 Skopje Commission for protection of the competition Member Dealing cases of distortion of the competition
1994-1999 Skopje Industrial property protection office of the Republic of Macedonia Assistant director in charge of legal matters of Industrial Property Rights (Trademarks, Designs, Patents)
07/1993-02/1994 Skopje Ministry of development of the Republic of Macedonia Assistant Minister in charge of legal matters of economic development and founding of Macedonian Industrial Property Protection Office
01/1991-06/1993 Skopje Commercial court of the Republic of Macedonia Judge assistant assisting in cases, preparing draft decisions, judgements, providing opinions
1986-1990 Skopje Public Attorney of the Republic of Macedonia Counsellor consulting upon legal matters regarding labour law, economic matters; representation in front of courts
 

14. Other relevant information (e.g., Publications)

A. 7 (seven) University Text Books:
- Mirjana Polenak Akimovska, Jadranka Dabovik Anastasovska, Vlado Buckovski, Valentin Pepeljugoski - Intellectual Porperty I - Industrial Property, 2004
- University text book: Jadranka Dabovik Anastasovska, Valentin Pepeljugoski - Copyright , 2006
- Jadranka Dabovik Anastasovska, Valentin Pepeljugoski - Intellectual Property, 2008;
- Valentin Pepeljugoski, Law on Competition – Anti monopoly Law, 2009
- Valentin Pepeljugoski, Patent Law, 2011
- Jadranka Dabovik Anastasovska PhD, Valentin Pepeljugoski PhD Intellectual property law, second revised and amended edition, Faculty of Law Justinijanus Primus, Skopje 2012
- Jadranka Dabovik Anastasovska, Goran Koevski, Valentin Pepeljugoski, Nenad Gavrilovic, Agreements of the autonomous trade practice Faculty of Law Justinijanus Primus, Skopje 2012
- University text book: Jadranka Dabovik Anastasovska, Valentin Pepeljugoski - Copyright , 2015 (second revise and amended edition)

B. Other Publications
Published over 50 scientific and professional (expert) publication in the field of unfair competition, consumer protection and protection of intellectual property (copyright and industrial property rights) in Republic of Macedonia and abroad (Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia, EU, Great Britain, USA etc.). The most valuable publication are:
- Mirjana Polenak Akimovska, Jadranka Dabovik Anastasovska, Vlado Buckovski, Valentin Pepeljugoski, Liljana Varga – Practicum, State Industrial Property Office, Skopje, 2005
- Collection of Laws and Regulations concerning copyrights and related rights, 1997;
- Collection of Laws and Regulations concerning culture, 1998.
- Protection of Topography of Integrated Circuits, 1999;
- Consumer Protection Legislation in the Republic of Macedonia, 2000;
- Consumer Protection Legislation in the Republic of Macedonia with comparative review in EU and USA, 2000.
- Industrial Property Law - collection of texts, 2003
- Industrial Property Law Glossary , 2004
- Industrial Property Law - International Conventions and Treaties, 2004
- Industrial Property Law - International and Domestic Praxis, 2004
- Commentary of the Law on Copyright and related rights, 2005
- Copyright and Related Rights - International Conventions and Treaties, 2006
- Mirjana Polenak Akimovska, Jadranka Dabovik Anastasovska, Valentin Pepeljugoski, Goce Naumovski, Neda Zdraveva, Nenad Gavrilovik – Commentary of the Law on Copyright and related rights, with extracts of international conventions and treaties, Skopje, 2007
- Jadranka Dabovik Anastasovska, Valentin Pepeljugoski, Neda Zdraveva, Nenad Gavrilovik – Data basis – Guide in Copyright and Related Rights, Skopje, 2007 in Macedonian and Albanian Language
- Jadranka Dabovik Anastasovska, Valentin Pepeljugoski, Neda Zdraveva, Nenad Gavrilovik – Computer Programs – Guide in Copyright and related Rights, Skopje, 2007 in Macedonian and Albanian Language
- Patents and Trademarks in 36 jurisdictions worldwide 2011-2016, Getting the deal through, Chapter for Macedonia
- Macedonia Chapter in Global competition review,
- Jadranka Dabovik Anastasovska, Valentin Pepeljugoski, Neda Zdraveva - Manual for patent policy on the universities and educational institutions, State office for industrial property in cooperation with European Patent Office, Skopje 2013

- Jadranka Dabovik Anastasovska, Valentin Pepeljugoski, Nenad Gavrilovikj - Manual for civil and administrative protection of patents, State office for industrial property in cooperation with European Patent Office, Skopje 2013
- Pepeljugoski Valentin, Pepeljugoska Ana, “Macedonia”, Global Legal Group 2015
- Pepeljugoska Ana, Pepeljugoski Valentin, ”Arbitrability of intellectual property disputes”, Pravo I atonomija Licnosti, Kopaonicka Skola Prirodnog Parava, 2015
- Pepeljugoski Valentin, Pepeljugoska Ana, “Macedonia:Overview”, European Antitrust Review 2016
- Pepeljugoski Valentin, “Macedonia”, Getting the deal through Patents 2016
- Пепељугоски Валентин, „Сличности и разлики кај новоста и оригиналноста како битни услови за заштита на пронајдоците и авторските дела“, Правник број 298, 2017


C. Published peer reviewed papers in mazgaines with international editorial board

- Pepeljugoski Valentin, “The criteria for copyright protection on computer programs and enforcement in the Republic of Macedonia”, Intellectual Property Rights Enforcement, Ss. Cyril and Methodius University, Iustinianus Primus Law Faculty, 2012.
- Анастасовска Д. Јадранка, Пепељугоски Валентин, “Новине у патентном систему у Европи и САД, или случај ‘Apple’ против ‘Samsung’–а из другог угла, ПРАВО И ПРИВРЕДА, бр. 4-6/2013
- Pepeljugoska Ana, Pepeljugoski Valentin, “Pledge on Industrial Property Rights in the Republic of Macedonia”, SEE CLUSTER OF EXCELLENCE IN EUROPEAN AND INTERNATIONAL LAW, Series of Papers, vol 2, Verlag Alma Mater 2016
- Zdraveva Neda, Pepeljugoski Valentin, “Protection of public interest in the area of health through compulsory licenses of patent for pharmaceutical under the Macedonian Legislation”, Modern Pharmacist –Bridging Science with Practice, Ohrid 2016
- Анастасовска Д. Јадранка, Пепељугоски Валентин, “Преносливоста на патентот услов за економско искористување и ефектуирање на материјалните (имотните) права на носителот на патентот, Годишник на Правниот факултет „Јустинијан Први“ во Скопје, во чест на Јане Миљовски, Том 54, Скопје 2016
- Pepeljugoska Ana, Pepeljugoski Valentin, “Social Media and the Challenges to Intelelctual Property Law”, Justinianus Primus Law Review, vol. 14, 2017
- Pepeljugoska Ana, Pepeljugoski Valentin, “Intellectual property rights as foreign direct investments in the transitioning countries”, SEE Law Journal vol. 1 number 3, April 2017
- Pepeljugoski Valentin, Pepeljugoska Ana, “The Interaction between priority and novelty as fundamentals for patent protection”, ILIRIA International Review, vol.7, no. 1 (2017)

European Patent Attorney and qualified representative before the Unified Patent Court (UPC) with almost 20 years of experience in intellectual property. My academic background in Materials Science and Mechanical Engineering provides a solid foundation for my work, supporting a clear understanding of complex technologies and their protection.
Based in Malta for nearly 15 years, I have been working in-house, but maintained close links to the local innovation landscape and professional community. Having served two terms on the epi Council, I have contributed to representing Malta’s interests and perspectives within the Institute. I seek re-election to continue supporting the participation of smaller member states in epi activities, to strengthen professional exchange, and to ensure that Malta remains well connected within the European patent community.

I am EPA from 1991 and European representative for more than 800 EP patent applications. I am substitute member for Malta in epi council since 2017.

Luigi read law at the University of Buckingham in the United Kingdom and graduated LL.B. with honours in 1990. He went on to graduate Doctor of Laws (LL.D.) from the University of Malta in 1995. He is the head of the firm and has been a practising advocate since 1996. He is a European Patent Attorney, Malta Council Member of the European Patent Institute (EPI) and was until recently the Chairperson of the Anti-Counterfeiting Committee at the European Communities Trademark Association (ECTA), as well as an overseas member of the Institute of Trade Mark Attorneys (ITMA) in the United Kingdom. He is also a member of MARQUES, AIPPI, the International Trade Mark Association (INTA), the Pharmaceutical Trade Marks Group (PTMG) and a Committee Member of the INTA (EU) Anti-Counterfeiting Committee. Languages: English, Maltese, Italian and French.

Arnt has a diverse portfolio including patent prosecution, advice/strategy, and litigation support, primarily in the field of mechanical engineering, including process and energy engineering, consumer products, packaging, medical devices, and horology.

Arnt studied Mechanical Engineering at Delft University of Technology, where he graduated with a specialization in process engineering. He has been with De Vries & Metman since 1999 and before that gained experience in the patent department of Akzo Nobel, focusing on fibres, nonwovens, geotextiles, and optical devices.

Arnt is a partner at De Vries & Metman. Additionally, he was a member of the board of The Netherlands Institute of Patent Attorneys from 2018 till 2025, the last four years as treasurer.

partner at AOMB Intellectual Property, member of management team at AOMB, member of Supervisory Board at AIPEX (Alliance of independent IP firms across Europe), member of Editorial Committee of epi

My name is Jenny Cromsigt and I am an Executive Director Legal at MSD Animal Health where I lead the Global Animal Health Patent Team. With a background in chemistry and biology I combine 20+ years of experience in industry and private practice. At MSD Animal Health the patent group is responsible for the patent prosecution world-wide for biopharma product such a vaccines (Nobivac), antiparasitic products (Bravecto), therapeutics (Numelvi) as well as technology products (Sure Petcare Cat door and Allflex identification tags). We support the business in licenses opportunities, Mergers and Acquisitions, as well do providing FTO and support for strategic projects.

Ingenieur technische fysica (Delft, 1984), propedeuse rechten (Erasmus 1980), octrooigemachtigde, European patent attorney (1988), CEIPI tutor, EPO EQE (opposition), Litcom EPI, managing partner A&S, adviseur gemachtigden, advocaten en (internationale) bedrijven, TQJ UPC (van drie NL gemachtigden).

Veel ervaring in oppostie en beroep:
"Many opponents secretly would rather concede defeat than face the immensely experienced Addick Land. He has successfully pleaded cases on several occasions before the European Patent Office (EPO)."

Door de combinatie van technische rechter in de UPC en ervaren EP octrooigemachtigde verwacht ik een nuttige bijdrage te kunnen leveren aan de verdere ontwikkeling van ons beroep, en derhalve aan de innovatie en economische vooruitgang in Nederland,

With more than a decade of experience in private practice, combined with now eight years of in-house practice for a multinational company overseeing a global intellectual property portfolio, I have gained a profound appreciation for the distinctive role and strengths of the European patent system. This journey has also underscored the exceptional qualities of its Professional Representatives within the international intellectual property landscape.

Driven by this understanding, I am enthusiastic about offering my support to uphold, enhance, and continue building upon the position and qualities of the European patent system and its Professional Representatives.

Jan-Willem Louwaard

2006-2017
European patent attorney / Dutch patent attorney at Arnold & Siedsma

2017 – onwards
IP protection and Technology Contract management Director at Tenaris

I am a Dutch and European patent attorney since 2008. After my studies in Molecular Sciences at the University of Wageningen, I received a PhD in physical chemistry at the University of Bern, I started working at V.O. Patents & Trademarks in 2005, where I am currently one of the partners. In addition to my daily patent work, I am actively involved in training candidate attorneys through the CEIPI training institute.
I have been part of the Dutch delegation of the epi Council since 2020, first as a substitute member and currently as a full member. I would like to use that experience and continue my contribution as a full member of the epi Council for the coming three years. I am committed to representing the interests of Dutch representatives, and to promoting quality and efficiency of the European patent system.

Since 2006 I have been advising clients on Intellectual Property at NLO, during which time I became a Dutch and European patent attorney. I mainly work for large and medium-sized businesses, whom I represent in patent prosecution and opposition procedures, in protecting and enforcing their rights, and generally advising on patent portfolio strategy and management.
In my daily work, my intention is to project myself into my clients’ world. In the EPI context, my priority will be to take the perspective of the user of the IP system, and continually strive to find ways to make it better for those users, whether it is through more efficient and straight-forward processes, better communication between the parties or other ways to better the overall system.
Before entering the IP profession, I studied at Delft University of Technology and got a MSc degree in Mechanical Engineering, specialising in mechatronics. After graduating I spent over six years in R&D at Eaton Automotive, working on precision technology and mechatronics, including sensor technology, actuators and embedded systems, giving me good insight into the business/inventor side of the IP processes.
Outside work, I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, listening to music, boxing and running. And probably the most essential non-essential in my life is making a good espresso.

I am Tiem Reijns, a professional representative in industry from The Netherlands.

For the last three years, I have represented The Netherlands in the epi Council and have been actively involved in the presidium as vice-president.

As, leader of an industry patent department, president and board member of the Dutch Institute, and member of the EQE examination board, I have vast experience in uniting the stakeholders in the IP field, bringing industry, private practice, the government, and the Patent Office together in a fruitful collaborating spirit, moving the profession forwards in exciting rapidly changing times.

With your vote, I can continue building on the future of our profession through epi.

I started working as a patent attorney at De Vries & Metman in 2018. Before that, I obtained an MSc degree in Physics and an MA degree in History, followed by a PhD degree in Medical Physics.

I am currently active in the field of physics and ICT-related technologies in a broad sense, including applications in medical technology, optical systems, artificial intelligence, image processing, horticulture, data encryption and compression, and quantum computing (both algorithms and hardware). In these fields, I assist a wide range of clients, ranging from individual inventors to SMEs to universities to multinational corporations.

I look forward to contributing to the EPI going forward in these interesting times, where new technological and political developments are rapidly succeed each other.

Tony Tangena did a MSc in Solid State Physics (cum laude) and a PhD in Mechanical Engineering. He worked for more than 30 years for Philips Electronics, last as senior vice president in the Philips Intellectual Property & Standards department. He took an early retirement from Philips in April 2009 and started his own company: Tangena & Van kan, specializing in patent valuation and patent portfolio management. He advised and advises many multinationals, organisations and SMEs on IP topics. Tony was President of epi, the organization of European Patent Attorneys, from 2011 to 2017. After that he served 3 more years as substitute Secretary General in the epi Presidium. At present he is still a member of the epi Council. For many years he chaired the organization that trains Dutch patent attorney candidates. He gave a series of 4 webinars for epi and still lectures on commercialization of intellectual property.

Qualified as European Patent Attorney since 2013. Experience in private practice as well inhouse. Held in-house roles in companies of various sizes and industries. Currently as Director IP of Inalfa Roof Systems.

I am a Dutch and European patent attorney who joined V.O. Patents & Trademarks in 2014 and became a partner in 2023. My daily practice focuses on drafting and prosecuting patent applications, handling opposition proceedings, and advising clients on a broad range of intellectual property matters. I hold a PhD in chemistry, which aligns closely with the technical fields in which most of my clients operate.

In 2026, I would like to join the EPI Council as a substitute member to gain deeper insight into the institute’s work and explore how I can contribute to its future activities.

Maaike van Velzen is a seasoned IP professional with a strong track record in driving innovation and supporting IP-driven strategies. She currently serves as IP Manager at VITO, a leading research organization committed to sustainability and impactful R&D, and is also a self-employed advisor to companies leveraging intellectual property for growth and competitive advantage.
Her previous roles include Vice President of IP Portfolio Management at Philips and Partner in IP & Technology Law at Deloitte, where she gained extensive experience in strategic IP management across diverse industries.
Maaike is passionate about emerging technologies, like AI, and the use of advanced tools to generate insights into business and IP landscapes and applying these tools in the IP profession. She actively promotes multidisciplinary collaboration to translate innovation into real-world impact and is committed to fostering a future where IP supports sustainable development.

Maaike is strongly motivated to contribute to the EPI Council by actively engaging in discussions on all matters relevant to the profession of European Patent Attorney.

Patent attorney since 1994.
Technical field: biology, pharmacology.
Law degree in 1994, experience as deputy justice in the appeal court in The Hague.
Been active in epi disciplinary committee and been member of the Disciplinary Board of Appeal.
Since 2012 NL member of the Professional Education Committee and now chairing the subcommittee on Continued Professional Education and the WG on UP/UPC.
Active as epi speaker and epi and CEIPI tutor.

Working in private practice (EP&C) since 2000, I qualified as Dutch and European patent attorney in 2003/2004 and became partner in 2009. Technical background in Mechanical Engineering (TU Delft).

Over the past 25 years, I have gained broad experience across many aspects of the patent profession. I advise and represent a diverse range of clients, primarily in the fields of medical technology and high-tech systems. In addition to my client work, I have been actively involved in training patent attorney trainees, implementing IP management tools, and improving the quality and efficiency of our processes. Until recently, I also served as managing partner.

With the combination of my experience, practical perspective, and strong interest in the continuous development of our profession, I aim to contribute actively to the EPI Council, supporting improvements to the European patent system for all users.

This term (2023-2026) has been my first term as a full member of the Council and I am starting to know the organization from within. I was a substitute member of the PCC (Professional Conduct Comitee) from 2020-2023, and a full member from 2023-2026.

I find the work in EPI and the discussions with EPAs from other countries very interesting and engaging and would like to continue representing Norway.

I have worked in in private practice in Norway since 1998, at three different companies and been an active member of the Norwegian association. From my regular work and cooperation with clients, I am familiar with many of the problems and challenges of the IP industry in Norway. Due to this, I believe I can speak and vote to ensure the interests of the Norwegian epi members.

My master degree is from NTNU and I was trained as a Patent Attorney prior to Norway entering EPO, following a Nordic education scheme in Sweden. I became a European Patent Attorney when Norway entered EPO in 2008. In 2019 I qualified as a UPC representative.

I hold extensive experience in general and strategic patent counseling, patent drafting and prosecution, patent clearance and IP analyses. My expertise includes due diligence, freedom to operate opinions, patent oppositions, administrative limitation and revocation proceedings, patent infringement analyses, and advising in patent litigation. I am also skilled in preparing IP strategies, third-party patent monitoring, and handling non-disclosure, technology and licensing agreements. I represent clients before the Norwegian Industrial Property Office, the EPO and the PCT authorities, and I am also experienced in securing design rights in Norway.

My clients range from small and middle sized Norwegian companies to large international corporations. I serve industries, such as oil & gas, aquafarming technology, electrical and mechanical engineering, electronics, renewable energy, medical technology and software.

I graduated in 1996 with a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering. I began my IP career as a Patent Examiner at the Norwegian Industrial Property Office in May 1998. From 2001 to 2002, I was in charge of Database Searches and Training for the Patent Department. I have extensive experience as a Patent Engineer and Patent Attorney from my time at ABC-patent (now Acapo) and Plougmann & Vingtoft between 2002 and 2009, where I also served as a Partner and Company Board Member.

From 2009 to 2011, I worked as an IP Advisor at Statoil ASA (now Equinor ASA), where I managed a portion of the company’s worldwide patent portfolio and actively contributed to the preparation of IP strategies. My responsibilities included IP capture and management, third-party patent monitoring, due diligence, conflict management, and handling non-disclosure, technology, and licensing agreements.

I joined Bryn Aarflot AS in 2011 and became a partner in 2018. My comprehensive background and strategic approach continue to support a diverse range of clients and industries in the field of intellectual property.

Therefore, I am confident that my extensive experience will enable me to make valuable contributions as an EPI Council member.

I have represented Norway as a full member in the EPI Council for the past two terms. In addition, I am currently a full member of the Professional Education Committee of the EPI and serve as a technical member of the Norwegian Board of Appeal for Industrial Property Rights (KFIR).
I qualified as a European Patent Attorney in 2012 and have 14 years of experience in private practice. For the past five years, I have worked as an in-house IP Manager at Kongsberg Maritime. This has given me valuable insight and understanding of both in-house and private practice needs and perspectives in Norway, including the education of EQE candidates—an important topic for Norwegian IP professionals in both private practice and industry.
I am motivated to continue my engagement in the Council for the next term and to represent Norway’s IP-profession in the EPI Council.

I have been a Council member for many years and have good knowledge of the organization and council members/delegations from other countries. I also know the Norwegian IP community well including our challenges after about 30 years working with IP, most of these years working in private practice. I believe I can represent and speak on behalf of Norwegian epi members in Council in a good manner.

European Patent Attorney since 2008, when Norway joined. Council member and member of European Patent Practice Committee since 2008. Member of a joint working group for Norwegian patent practice/cooperation with the patent department of the Norwegian Industrial Property Office since 2016.

M.Sc. (Physics) 1994. Patent examiner / head of section electronics/constructions at Norwegian Industrial Property Office 1995-1998.
Joined Bryn Aarflot in 1998 as patent attorney. Head of patent 2010-2021. Senior partner.

Presently head of IP at Instagrid. Deeply passionate about creating high quality IP rights for European innovation. Diverse experience which includes private practice and in-house roles. Experience from previous career life includes electronics (chip design) and power industry. I have also been inventor in multiple patents and patent applications.

I have been a full council member for one period, and substitute member for two periods. Moreover, I have been head of FICPI national group for five years and been in the election committee of the national FICPI group for 5 years. I have also been committed to sport and I have 5 years as a board member in an Icehockey club, now I am in the control committee of this Icehockey Club. Also I have been a regular coauthor of patent papers for the Norwegian AIPPI group on study questions. I have been an exco delegate at AIPPI since 2011.

I have been a member (regular or substitute) for the last 9 years

Norwegian Patent Attorney since 1994, EPA since 2008 when Norway joined.
EPI Board member 2008-2017
EPI Council member 2008-2023, substitute member 2023-present
Disciplinary Committee member 2017-present

Curriculum Vitae
Turid Helene Tronbøl
Skåka, Ringeriksveien 260
3370 Vikersund
Born: 16 April 1970
Phone: +47 91170715
Email: [email protected]

Work Experience:
2016 - present: Klagenemda for Industrielle Rettigheter (KFIR) - Technical Board Member
2011- present: TechnipFMC Norge AS, part of TechnipFMC globally – IP Director
Working as an inhouse adviser and manager of the patent portfolio and general IP issues for global technical groups of TechnipFMC. Coordinating communication with different outside counsel both in relation to patent prosecution and also in possible infringement cases globally, but with main focus Europe.
2001-2011: Onsagers AS - Partner /IP consultant,
Working with all aspects of IP in close cooperation with outside firms needing support and advice on IP. Appointed Director of Onsagers UK (2006-2008), building the procedures and systems for handling EP cases out of Norway through the daughter company in UK. Appointed Head of Patent department (2008-2011) of Onsagers AS with academic, financial, and personal responsibility for the IP consultants in the patent department. That position also involved being part of leadership team of Onsagers, and working closely with the administrative staff.
2000-2001: Ministry for Trade and Commerce - Adviser in the research section.
Providing advice and background material in different cases for the leadership of the ministry. Implementing decision from political leadership of the ministry. Follow up and responsibility for Norges Geologiske Undersøkelser (NGU).
1995-2000: Norwegian Patent Office – Examiner and Head of business unit/section in patent department.
Examiner (1995-1998) for patent application with the mechanical engineering field, trained for 1,5 year, then independent responsibility for deciding patent applications and decision in opposition proceedings. Training responsibility for newly employed examiner. Participated in marketing activities and outside seminar/courses. Appointed Head of section for oil/gas and primary industries in the Patent department (1998-2000) with academic, financial, and personal responsibility for 17 patent examiners in the section, member of leadership team in patent department. Participated in international collaboration groups related to IPC classification.
Prior to 1995: Different temporary employments in engineering firms, primary school etc. and summer jobs during studies at University.
Education:
1989-1994: NTH/NTNU MSc Mechanical Engineering/Siviling. maskin
Diploma Thesis for MSc written in UK at Cranfield University
Course at University of Oslo, Legal institute: Patent and Trademark law
Titles:
MSc Mechanical Engineering/Siviling maskin
European Patent Attorney (EPA)
Fellows of LEAD, Leadership for Environment and Development

Other Experience:
Technical witness in several IP/patent cases before; Oslo City court and Borgarting Appeal court.
Technical Judge in IP court case at Oslo city court.
Heading NIP (Norwegian Society of Industry Patent Engineers) for three years and being board member for 5 years.

Skills
Fluent in Norwegian, Good in English.
Other personal elements
Sitting in the board of local community house, Kongsrud Grendehus
Bygdekvinnelaget (Local group of Women in the country Association)

Victor Emmanuel Stephanus (called Steven) van Dijk is a European and Dutch Patent Attorney, and founder of VDiQ IP Services, an independent law firm based in Stavanger, Norway. He brings over two decades of experience in intellectual property, combining insight from both industry and private practice to deliver high-quality, strategic IP advice.

After obtaining his degree in Electronic Engineering from the Eindhoven University of Technology (NL), Steven began his career in 1997 as a Research Scientist at Philips Research Laboratories in Eindhoven, where he worked in integrated circuit design. During this period, he filed 24 invention disclosures, eight of which were selected for patent filing—an experience that sparked his lasting interest in intellectual property.

In 2003, Steven transitioned into the IP profession by joining Philips Intellectual Property & Standards, where he qualified as a Dutch Patent Attorney and started his European qualification. Following Philips’ divestment of its semiconductors division, he continued his work at NXP Semiconductors before moving to DeltaPatents in 2007, where he completed his European Patent Attorney qualification.

In 2012, Steven joined Mapper Lithography in Delft (NL) as an in-house patent attorney, further deepening his experience within high-tech industry environments. A year later, he relocated to Norway and joined Håmsø Patentbyrå in Stavanger, where he worked for almost twelve years—five of them as a partner—providing IP strategy and patent services to clients across diverse sectors.

In May 2025, Steven founded VDiQ IP Services, realizing a long-held ambition to establish his own firm. The foundation of VDiQ is his conviction that quality and clarity in IP services are both achievable and essential. His clients consistently recognize him as a trusted and skilled advisor, and his expertise has been acknowledged in multiple international rankings, including the IAM Patent 1000.

My name is Magdalena Anna Augustyniak. I have been a European Patent Attorney since 2015, as well as a Polish Patent Attorney and a professional representative before the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) since 2011.
I graduated from the Faculty of Chemical and Process Engineering at the Warsaw University of Technology, where I studied biotechnology with a specialisation in industrial biotechnology. In my daily practice, I am involved in a broad range of services, including the filing, prosecution, and maintenance of patent applications in the fields of organic and inorganic chemistry, pharmacy, and process engineering, as well as the filing and prosecution of Supplementary Protection Certificates.
Within epi, I have served as an epi Tutor, CSP Coach, and as a member of the European Patent Practice Committee. In the current term of the epi Council (2023–2026), I am also engaged in the work of the Board and the epi Secretariat, serving as Secretary General.
My recent years on the Council have provided me with valuable insight into the work of the epi bodies. I believe that this experience will enable me to contribute even more effectively and to support epi in ensuring it remains a modern organisation that meets the needs of its members.

I work in private practice in Poland and specialize in electronics and ICT. I am an engineer by heart and by education, with a strong commitment to maintaining and improving the quality of the European patent system.

Within epi, I chair the Quality Subcommittee of the European Patent Practice Committee (EPPC) and the EPPC-ICT group. I am also a member of the OCC Committee and of the SACEPO Working Party on Quality (ad personam). I am actively engaged in discussions with the EPO on examination quality and online communication, combining practical experience with data-based analysis.

I closely follow and interpret statistical indicators published by the EPO and other public sources, focusing on the practical and quality aspects of EPO and UPC services. Some of these analyses are available on my LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marek-bury/ .

I have served as a member of the Examination Committee EC2 and as a marker of EQE Part C (Opposition) in 2019–2023.

Thanks to my experience, I have a versatile view on the patent practice, including the education of professional representatives and their daily tools, which I hope to be useful for the Council. I believe that serving on the epi Council would strengthen my role in the quality dialogue with the EPO and allow me to contribute more effectively to the development of efficient and transparent online communication systems.

I have no other obligations to national bodies of patent attorneys or potential conflicts of interest resulting from membership in any national patent attorney council.

Selected experience/education:
2024–2026: Member (ad personam), SACEPO Working Party Quality
2024–: Chair, EPPC-ICT
2023–: European Patent Litigator
2023–: Member, OCC Committee
2021–2023: Member (ad personam) of SACEPO Working Party Quality
2020–: Coordinator, Quality Subcommittee by EPPC
2019–2023: Marker of EQE Part C (Opposition)
2017–: Member, Quality Subcommittee by EPPC;
2017–: Member, EPPC-ICT
2017: Master in Law (completed to be admitted as European patent litigator)
2014–2017: Member, CII Subcommittee of EPPC (Future ICT Thematic Group)
2014–2017: Member, EPPC
2014-2017: Substitute member, epi Council
2013: Passed EQE; entered on the list of European Patent Attorneys
2009: PhD in Telecommunications;
2009: Admitted as Polish Patent Attorney
2004: Master (Eng.) in Automatics and Robotics, Computer Science, Electronics and Telecommunications

Managing private patent attorneys office located in Kraków and Wroclaw, experience in technology transfer and managing drug discovery research center at the Jagiellonian University in Krakow; drafting and filing patent applications; active in the Polish Chamber of Patent Attorneys.

2022 – European Patent Attorney (EQE qualified)
2011 – Polish Patent Attorney
2010 – Postgraduate studies in the field of intellectual property protection at the University of Warsaw, Faculty of Law and Administration
2004 – Master's degree in biology (biophysics) at the Jagiellonian University in Krakow
2003 – Master's degree in philosophy at the Jagiellonian University in Krakow

I'm a European Patent Attorney (since 2014); Polish Patent and Trademark attorney; Professional Representative before the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) and the Unified Patent Court (UPC).

I joined private practice in 2002 and have since specialized in comprehensive services related to the filing, prosecution, maintenance and enforcement of patents in the field of biotechnology, genetics, pharmacy and molecular medicine, both in the national, regional and international (PCT) patent procedures.

I'm active member of various professional IP organizations, both international and Polish:
· epi: Council Member for Poland since 2017; member of the epi’s Biotechnology Committee (recently appointed as the Secretary) and the Pharma Thematic Group of the EPPC;
· Polish National Group of the International Association for the Protection of Intellectual Property (AIPPI Poland): Vice President, Board Member since 2015;
· International Association for the Protection of Intellectual Property (AIPPI): a longtime active member of the AIPPI Standing Committee on Biotechnology; an observer in AIPPI Standing Committees – Pharma and Unitary Patent / Unified Patent Court (UP/UPC);
· Polish Chamber of Patent Attorneys (PIRP): member of the National Council of Patent Attorneys; member of the Special Committee on the UPC and the Examination Committee.
· Polish Patent Office: member of the Advisory Panel on Quality since 2024.

I'm a regular speaker at IP-related conferences and seminars, as well as a lecturer sharing my IP knowledge with patent attorneys, trainee patent attorneys and biotechnology students.

I graduated from the Intercollegiate Faculty of the Medical University of Gdańsk and the University of Gdańsk, where I specialized in molecular medicine and genetics. My research focused on the molecular background of different cancers and the development of molecular diagnostic and prognostics tests for viral and cancer diseases.
I completed post-graduate studies in Industrial Property Law at the University of Warsaw and the European Patent Law course at the Centre for International Intellectual Property Studies (CEIPI) at the University of Strasbourg, and participated also in the Praktika Intern internships at the EPO in Munich, including the one with the EPO Technical Boards of Appeal.

I am a Polish Patent Attorney since 1999 and European Patent Attorney since 2005. My activities in the EPI are as follows:
- Substitute Member of the Council of the Institute of Professional Representatives before the European Patent Office 2014-2017,
- Substitute Member of the Professional Conduct Committee (PCC) 2014-2017
- Member of the Professional Conduct Committee (PCC) 2017-2023
- Associate Member of the Professional Conduct Committee (PCC) 2023-2026
- Member of the Harmonisation Committee 2017-2026

I have been practising as a European Patent Attorney since 2005 closely to when Poland joined the European Patent Organization.

My primary educational background is Warsaw University of Technology, Faculty of Mechatronics, Institute of Biocybernetics and Biomedical Engineering, and related fields dominate in my work in terms of draft, prosecution and post-grant of European patent applications and patents. My entire career has been in private practice, wherein since 2009 in PATENTAEGIS.EU Ltd. Patent, Trademark and Design Agency operating from Warsaw, Poland.

On behalf of the Polish constituency, as of 2014 I have been a full/substitute member of the epi Council and the epi Committees, such as the European Patent Practice Committee (EPPC).

Upon participation in the courses “EPC 2000 Train the trainers” 2007 and “Train the trainers – EPC training programme for experienced national patent attorneys” 2009-2010, I have been honoured to lecture Polish and European patent attorneys, and candidates on the Polish and the EPC/PCT patent law and practice during seminars organized by the epi, EPA, EPO, Center for International Intellectual Property Studies (CEIPI), and by the Polish Chamber of Patent Attorneys.

Having gained experience in the epi Council and Committees over the recent years, which involved also contacts with delegates of the Polish Patent Office in the Administrative Council of the EPO, I would like to continue contributing to the work of the epi on behalf of the Polish constituency. I strongly believe these endeavours are vital in changing our professional environment to our mutual advantage, and of crucial importance for the present and future of the profession.

As the sole founder and operating manager of a private practice patent agency EWA MALEWSKA & PARTNERS I have an up-to-date knowledge of IP issues on the National Regional and International levels.
Within epi since 2005, serving the Polish Constituency in the Council, EPPC and epi-Finances Committee. Upon entry into force of EPC 2000, after completing the Train a Trainer course, I have offered nationwide tutorials on the changes, thus continuing and earlier similar work on behalf of CEIPI - coordinating three times the "EPC Basic training course" in cooperation with the CEIPI European Tutors.
I have a technical (M.Sc. Chem.) and legal (LLM) background. Managing the patent agency requires good knowledge of HR and taxation laws, as well as of many other regulations.
I would like to share my experience with European Colleagues and Friends, bring epi and especially epi Council into closer relations with the national Constituencies and work on improvement of the EPO-EPI relations to the benefits of Industry and our Profession.

Electrical engineer, graduated in electronics and telecommunications from the Technical University of Lodz, Poland, and the Technical University of Denmark. He gained extensive experience in the industry having worked at various international telecommunication corporations. He has experience in developing patent strategies, primarily for startups and established SMEs. Currently, he runs Kancelaria EUPATENT.PL in Lodz.

He qualified as a European patent attorney in 2007. Since then he held various positons at the epi, starting from Professional Qualifications Commitee (then Professional Education Commitee). Contributed to educating EQE trainees as an epi and CEIPI tutor. Direct supervisor to four candidates - three already passed the EQE, the fourth still under the training period. Since 2023, the epi Council member.

Od 2021 roku jestem europejskim rzecznikiem patentowym.

W kadencji 2023-2026 byłem członkiem polskiej delegacji do Rady epi (jako zastępca), udzielam się w Litigation Committee oraz nieco w Online Communications Committee (Jako obserwator).

Posiadam wykształcenie techniczne (informatyka), i głównym obszarem mojej aktywności jest prowadzenie postępowań zgłoszeniowych przed EPO.

W ramach mojej aktywności w Radzie epi chciałbym tak wspierać radę, aby interes polskich rzeczników europejskich był należycie reprezentowany. Jest nas ponad 200 i nasz głos powinien się liczyć. Dla osób aktywnych przed EPO, epi jest organizacją o fundamentalnym charakterze, która może realnie wpływać na EPO.

I liczę na głosy z Polski, dlatego moje CV jest po polsku.

SHORT ENGLISH VERSION
I've been a European Patent Attorney since 2021. I'm involved in the epi Council (as a substitute member), LitCom (full member) and a bit in the OCC (associate).

I have technical background and my prime focus is patent prosecution at the EPO.

Alicja Rogozińska is a Polish Patent Attorney (since 1999), European Patent Attorney and professional representative before the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO). She has been working in one of the biggest Polish patent agencies since 1997.
With her background in material engineering she is a patent and utility model practitioner with more than 20 years’ experience in the prosecution, maintenance and litigation procedures.
Ms Rogozińska graduated with a Master’s degree from the Faculty of Material Engineering at the Warsaw University of Technology; she completed post-graduate studies in the area of Intellectual Property Law at the Jagiellonian University in Krakow and the European School of Law and Administration in Warsaw. Since 1983 she has been a certified translator of the German language with the Polish Supreme Technical Organisation.
For many years Ms. Rogozińska has been active in several professional organizations, i.e. Regional Council of the Polish Chamber of Patent Attorneys and the Polish Chapter of Licensing Executive Society, currently serving as a Treasurer of LES Poland.
Continuously since 2006, she has been serving as the active member of the epi Disciplinary Committee where she has acting as a Rapporteur and a Chair. In 2020 she started her first term as a epi Council member.

Managing private IP practice, acquisition of clients; representation of clients in industrial property matters; drafting and filing of patent applications; creating business strategies for managing industrial property.

2023 - European Patent Litigator
2010 – European patent attorney (EQE qualified)
2008 – Polish Patent attorney,
2007 - Postgraduate studies in the field of intellectual property protection at the University of Warsaw, Faculty of Law and Administration
2002 – Doctor of Chemistry at the Institute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences in Warsaw
1999 - Master's degree in theoretical physics at the School of Exact Sciences in Warsaw
1997 - Bachelor's degree in mathematical modeling of phenomena at the School of Exact Sciences in Warsaw

European Patent Attorney before the European Patent Office (EPO).

European Trade Mark Attorney before the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO).

General Industrial Property practice since 1980.

António Corte-Real (Simões, Garcia Corte-Real & Associados)

António is a Portuguese lawyer and a qualified Industrial Property Agent.
He started practicing on IP legal matters in 1990 and has been a partner of the IP firm Simões Garcia Corte-Real & Associates since 2001.
He is a member of the Portuguese Bar Association, ECTA, INTA, AIPPI and FICPI.
He was a member of the Legal and Harmonization Committees of ECTA and he is legal advisor of Portuguese Association for Self-Regulation of Advertising where we advises on advertising law.
His professional practice focuses the field of trademarks, domain names and designs. He has also intervened as arbitrator in IP arbitration procedures, namely in cases dealing with trademark, domain names and company names under the Arbitrare, the Portuguese IP Arbitration Centre.
In 2017 he participated in the Ministerial Working Group that reviewed the latest Industrial Property Code of Portugal which implemented the European Trademark Directive.
Also in 2024 and 2025 he participated in the Ministerial Working Group for revision of the Industrial Property Code of Portugal that presented a draft for the new law.

NUNO CRUZ

I – Education:
• Degree in Law obtained at the Free University of Lisbon in 1983
• Appointed Assistant Official Industrial Property Agent in 1984
• Member of the Portuguese Bar Association since 1987
• Appointed Official Industrial Property Agent in 1995
• European Trademark and Design Attorney before the Office for Harmonization in the Internal Market
• Title of Specialist Lawyer in Intellectual Property Law awarded by the Portuguese Bar Association in 2006

II – Career History:
• Member of J. Pereira da Cruz, S.A. since 1979
• Partner of J. Pereira da Cruz, S.A. since 1987
• Founding partner of Pereira da Cruz e Associados - Sociedade de Advogados, R.L.
• Arbitrator at the WIPO Arbitration and Mediation Centre for the resolution of domain name disputes
• Arbitrator at the ARBITRARE Arbitration Centre, Portugal
• Speaker at seminars, courses and training programmes in the field of intellectual property
• Chairman of the IP Commission of ICC Portugal since June 2016

III – Professional Associations:
• ACG (Anti-Counterfeiting Group)
• ACPI (Portuguese Association of Industrial Property Consultants)
• AIPPI (International Association for the Protection of Intellectual Property)
• ECTA (European Communities Trade Mark Association)
• EPI (Institute of Professional Representatives before the European Patent Office)
• FICPI (Fédération Internationale des Conseils en Propriété Industrielle)
• ICC (Intellectual Property Committee of the Portuguese Delegation of the International Chamber of Commerce)
• INTA (International Trademark Association)
• ITMA (Institute of Trademark Attorneys)
• PTMG (Pharmaceutical Trade Marks Group)
• UNION (Union of European Practitioners in Intellectual Property)

IV – Languages:
• Portuguese, English, French, Spanish

Rui Gomes is a patent attorney recognized for leadership and expertise in intellectual property, with a focus on patents and designs in Computer Science, Electronics, and Medical Devices. He is deeply involved in IP strategy, legal analysis, and policy development, following earlier roles as a Patent Examiner at the Portuguese PTO and as an R&D Engineer within the energy sector. Rui is committed to advancing the profession through education and training, working as Assistant Professor of Intellectual Property at Lusófona University, Tutor at CEIPI, and former Coach for the EPO/epi Candidate Support Program. He serves as President of the Patents Commission of UNION-IP, Full Member of the Professional Education Committee of the European Patent Institute (epi), and member of the Portuguese Association of IP Consultants (ACPI).

Education
- University of Coimbra (UC), PhD in Physics, Technological Physics, 2013
- University of Coimbra (UC), Graduated in Physics Engineering, 2007
- Católica Lisbon School of Business and Economics, Executive Course in Leadership, 2019
- CEIPI, Basic Course on European Patent Law, 2017
- CEIPI, Patent Litigation in Europe University Diploma, 2022-2023

Professional Qualifications
- Representative before the Unified Patent Court (UPC) since 2023
- Qualified European Patent Attorney since 2017
- Qualified European Trademark and Design Attorney since 2016
- Qualified Portuguese Patent and Trademark Attorney since 2015

Professional Memberships
- President of the Patents Commission of UNION-IP
- European Patent Institute (epi), Full Member of the Professional Education Committee
- Portuguese Association of IP Consultants (ACPI)

Naval Mechanical Engineer (Portuguese Naval Academy – from Portuguese Navy)
General Manager of Lupral (an angolan company belongy to the Belgium company Eternit)
Portuguese Patent Attorney
European Patent Attorney

JOÃO PEREIRA DA CRUZ

João Pereira da Cruz is an engineering graduate and a member of the Portuguese National Association of Engineers. He has been a partner and member of the board of J. Pereira da Cruz, S.A. since 1974 and an Official Industrial Property Agent since 1984.

He became a Portuguese Official Industrial Property Agent in 1984, a European Patent Attorney in 1992 and a European Trademark and Design Attorney before the European Union Intellectual Property Office in 1996.

João has extensive national and international professional experience in a wide range of areas. He holds several leadership positions in Portuguese and European IP organisations, currently serving as President of ACPI (Portuguese Association of Intellectual Property Consultants) and AMEP (Portuguese Association of European Patent Attorneys). He is a former Secretary General of EPI (Institute of Professional Representatives before the European Patent Office) and Past President of ECTA (European Communities Trade Mark Association) and UNION-IP (Union of European Practitioners in Intellectual Property). These national and international appointments are recognition of his commitment, competence and innovative capabilities, making him one of the most authoritative voices in the IP field.

João is a regular speaker at worldwide conferences and events on a broad range of subjects, such as IP protection in Portugal and other jurisdictions, the European Union trademark system and the Unitary Patent, and he regularly contributes to publications in the field.

João is a highly recommended and well-regarded expert and practitioner, with in-depth knowledge and solid expertise. He is also an active and pioneering member of all the major IP associations, including AIPPI, APRAM, CIPA, CITMA, ECTA, EPI, FICPI, GRUR, ICC Portugal, INTA, MARQUES, PTMG and UNION-IP.

His broad practice additionally covers a full spectrum of IP matters in Macao and Portuguese-speaking Africa.

- Professional representative before EPO
- Representative before UPC
- Official Industrial Property Agent (AOPI - PT).
- European Trademark and Design Attorney (EUIPO).
- Patent Litigation Certificate (UPC)
- Patent arbitrator before Arbitrare and before Portuguese courts
- Tutor at CEIPI and EPI
- MBA (Master of Business Administration) from Porto Business School
- 5-year degree in Computing and Electrical Engineering

I am a European and Romanian patent attorney with a background that bridges science and finance. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from the University of Bucharest, a Bachelor’s degree in Finance and Accounting, and a Master’s degree in the Chemistry of Medicaments and Cosmetic Products. I qualified as a European patent attorney in 2012, after passing the EQE.

Since 2007, I have been working with patents, advising clients on patent prosecution and IP strategy. I am passionate about professional education and mentoring: since 2012, I have served as a tutor for the European Qualifying Examination in collaborations with epi, the European Patent Academy, and CEIPI. Currently, I am the coach coordinator for the EQE Candidate Support Program, and EPO initiative to support and foster the next generation of patent professionals in Europe.

Within epi, I have been a member of the Online Communication Committee since 2017 and I am a full member of the Professional Education Committee , contributing to initiatives aimed at strengthening the education of future professional representatives. I also chair the epi Working Group on IP Awareness and currently serve as President of the AIPPI Romanian Group, eager to promote IP awareness and engagement at both national and European levels.

I am a European and Romanian patent attorney with 30 years of uninterrupted practice in the field. My technical background is in biology, having studied at the University of Bucharest, Faculty of Biology.

I have been working with patents since 1995, focusing on patent drafting and prosecution, and on advising clients on patent strategies. I strive to keep myself up to date with everything regarding patent practice, legislation, jurisprudence, technology transfer. I strongly believe in disseminating information about patents to the young generations of researchers, inventors and entrepreneurs. As such, I see it as a personal mission to get out from my desk and speak about patents, raising the level of awareness and education about patent strategy and prosecution.

Within epi, I am currently a member of the Council and also a full member of the Biotech Committee, contributing to initiatives aimed at amending or clarifying the legislation and practice in the field of biotechnological inventions. I believe that it is important to have a voice where the decisions are made, a voice that speaks for the interests of the Romanian patent attorneys.

Studied mechanical engineering at the Polytechnic Institute of Bucharest with main emphasis on general mechanics.
Competent in all areas of intellectual property, with work experience in drafting and prosecution of patent applications (Romanian, International and European).

European patent attorney since 2003.

Member of the Romanian Chamber of Patent Attorneys( CNCPIR), epi Council full member for Romania , member of AIPPI(former president), currently secretary of the national Romanian AIPPI Group.

Parcursul meu profesional este legat de domeniul proprietății intelectuale de aproape două decenii, începându-mi activitatea în cadrul Cabinet M. Oproiu în noiembrie 2006.
De-a lungul anilor, am avut privilegiul de a crește odată cu profesia noastră, devenind consilier român de brevete în 2008 și, mai recent, consilier european de brevete, în urma promovării examenului european de calificare (EQE 2023).
Cred cu tărie că rolul nostru nu se rezumă doar la practica de zi cu zi, ci implică și o responsabilitate față de comunitatea profesională din care facem parte. Din acest considerent am încercat să mă implic activ în viața EPI.
Din iulie 2023 am bucuria de a fi tutore pentru studenții EPI, ghidându-i în pregătirea lor pentru exigențele EQE. Totodată, începând din mai 2024, contribui la activitatea EPI ca membru substituent în două comitete:
• Comitetul de Litigii (LitCom), inclusiv în cadrul Subcomitetului dedicat Curții Unice în Materie de Brevete (CUB - UPC);
• Comitetul de Conduită Profesională (PCC), participând și la Grupul de Lucru pentru amendarea Codului de Conduită.
Această implicare directă în activitatea comitetelor EPI, alături de recenta calificare ca Reprezentant in fata Curtii Unice în Materie de Brevete (UPC - 2025), m-au ajutat să înțeleg în profunzime dinamica actuală a profesiei noastre.
Lucrând atât la nivel național, cât și în aceste grupuri europene, am văzut cât de mult contează o participare activă și constantă din partea noastră.
Din acest motiv, m-aș bucura să pot continua această muncă și aș fi onorată de oportunitatea de a face parte din Consiliul EPI.

I am a European and Romanian patent attorney with a background in biochemistry and biotechnology. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry and a Master’s degree in Microbiology and Biotechnology from the University of Bucharest. I qualified as a European Patent Attorney in 2023 after passing the online EQE.

Since 2010, I have been working in the IP field, where I handle patent drafting, prosecution, and validation of European patents in Romania. My work focuses on advising clients on national and international patent procedures and supporting their business interests through clear and reliable legal guidance.

I am interested in training and helping others learn. I currently participate as a mentor for EQE trainees within epi and have completed a Training of Trainers course, obtaining a Certificate of Qualification in Adult Vocational Training. I also completed advanced training with the WIPO Academy on trademarks, industrial designs, and geographical indications.

Within the profession, I am an active member of the European Patent Practice Committee of epi and of AIPPI. I am also a member of the National Chamber of Industrial Property Advisers of Romania (CNCPIR). I am eager to contribute to strengthening the education and preparation of future European patent professionals.

I entered the profession in 1990 and since then, I constantly aimed at improving my knowledge and understanding the industrial property field as Patent and Trademark Attorney. At the same time, I understood that educating people in what means industrial property and investing efforts in raising the level of professional competence is a strategical issue in my country as well as in all EPC countries.
Therefore, I took an interest in the statute of the profession both at the national level and at the European one and therefore, I actively involved myself in the work of different bodies of professional associations.
From this perspective, along the time I have been entrusted with different positions:
Vice-President of the epi (2011-2017)
member of the epi Council (2005-2026) and Board (2011-2017)
member of the PEC (Professional Education Committee) (2005-2023)
member of the SACEPO (Standing Advisory Committee before the EPO) (2011-2022)
member of the Harmonization Committee (2023-2026)
member of PCC (Professional Conduct Committee) (2023-2026)
President of the Romanian Chamber of Industrial Property Attorneys (2009-2010) and General Secretary of its Disciplinary Committee (2000-2002)
Coordinator of the epi/CEIPI Basic Training Course in Bucharest
Having this experience, I am interested to be further involved in policy making activities which shape our profession and, I would like to continue serving my constituency and epi.

Professional Experience

Widely recognized as a reputed patent and trademark specialist, with over 16 years of experience in the IP field, my areas of expertise include dispute resolution with respect to patents (mechanical, electro-mechanical, optics and measuring equipment and other fileds), designs, trademarks and copyrights. I am licensed European patent attorney and European trademark and designs attorney, and Trademark Attorneys and a member of EPI (Institute of Professional Representatives before the European Patent Office), FICPI (Federation Internationale des Conseils en Propriete Industrielle), AIPPI (Association Internationale pour la Protection de la Propriete Intellectuelle). I have a very reach experience and filings PCT applications, European patent applications, Validations euroepan patents, etc.

1.04.2012 - present
Owner
Cabinet Doina Tuluca – Intellectual Property Counseling
2008 – 2012
Partner Intellectual Property Practice Group
Nestor Nestor Diculescu Kingston Petersen
2008 – 2010 Vice-President
National Chamber of Industrial Property Attorneys of Romania
2004 – 2008 President
National Chamber of Industrial Property Attorneys of Romania
2000 – 2008 Partner and General Manager
INVENTA Agentie de proprietate intelectuala SRL
2007 European trademark and design attorney before the Office of Harmonization for the Internal Market
2003 European Patent Attorney
1998 – 2025 Intellectual Property Expert
Ministry of Justice
1997 - present Authorized Assessor
National Romanian Assessors Association
1996 Intellectual Property Attorney – inventions, trademarks, designs, integrated circuits topography
1996 Specialized consultant
INVENTA
1996 Director within the Information-Documentation Laboratory
RNC- INCAS - S.A. „Elie Carafoli” National Institute for Aerospace Research Bucharest
1994 – 1995 Quality Manager
S.C. ELAROM - S.A. Bucharest
1980 – 1994 Scientific Researcher
RNC- INCAS - S.A. „Elie Carafoli” National Institute for Aerospace Research Bucharest

Academic Studies and Post Graduate Training
1978 Engineer
Polytechnic Institute of Bucharest
2006 Master Degree in Private Law
"Romanian Legal Aspects on Medicine Protection "
University of Bucharest - Law School
1994 Quality System Manager Diploma
Centre for Improvement in the Field of Quality Management, Polytechnic Institute of Bucharest
1997 Expert Assessor Degree
National Agency for Privatization
1997 Training course for European Patent
Universite Robert Schuman
2004 Intensive course on the presentation of the SOIT national patent legislation
SOIT

Professional Contributions
Articles and other professional contributions
2010 “Selection Inventions in Romania”, AIPPI
2009 “Exploitation of the intellectual property rights in co-ownership”, AIPPI
2009 “Selection Inventions – the Inventive Step Requirement, other Patentability Criteria and Scope of Protection”, AIPPI
2009 “Romania grants its first utility model”, IP WORLD
2008 “ Damages evaluation in counterfeiting”
1998 “The well-known trademark”
1998 “ Copyright over the technical manufacturing designs”

Raluca Vasilescu – European Patent Attorney, Romanian Patent and Trademark Attorney, is one of the two founding partners of Cabinet M Oproiu.
She specializes in patent and trademark prosecution and the technical part of the litigations.
With regard to patents, Raluca’s expertise lies in drafting patent applications for the European Patent Office, the international patent applications, as well as national patent applications, all in the fields of mechanics/electronics, including artificial intelligence.
With regard to trademarks, her practice concentrates on proceedings before the Romanian Patent Office and the EUIPO, including opposition and appeal proceedings.
Raluca’s competitive edge is the patent drafting and the technical part of the patent litigations.
Raluca wrote the Romanian chapter of Enforcement of Intellectual Property Rights through Border Measures (Oxford University Press, 2012) and contributed to the first edition called Community Trade Mark Regulation: A Commentary (CH Beck Hart Nomos, 2015) and to the second edition of European Union Trade Mark Regulation: Article-by-Article Commentary (CH Beck Hart Nomos, 2018). She is frequent contributor to various international publications in the field of patents and trademarks.
Raluca is fluent in English, French and Spanish.
Raluca is member of the European Patent Practice Committee (EPPC) of the European Patent Institute (EPI), co-delegate for Romania for FICPI (Fédération Internationale des Conseils en Propriété Industrielle), member of ECTA (European Community Trademark Association), and vice-president of Romanian Group of AIPPI (Association Internationale pour la Protection de la Propriété Intellectuelle).

DEJAN BOGDANOVIĆ
Vlajkovićeva 28, 11000 Beograd, Srbija
tel. + 381 11 323 1970, fax + 381 11 324 5065
e-mail: [email protected]
www.mjb.rs

For over 30 years, Dejan Bogdanović has been advising and representing domestic and foreign clients in the field of intellectual property rights protection, primarily before the competent republican and judicial authorities in the Republic of Serbia, as well as before the European Patent Office based in Munich, Germany, and at WIPO (World Organization for intellectual property), based in Geneva, Switzerland.

Dejan Bogdanović has been practicing law since 1993 and has been a patent and trademark attorney since the same year.

Dejan Bogdanović is responsible for the office's portfolio in the field of intellectual property rights protection and specializes in representation in court proceedings for trademark, patent or design infringement, as well as in copyright disputes, where he has represented clients in several significant cases.

Dejan Bogdanović is:

- a member of the Belgrade Bar Association,
- a European patent atorney since 2011, registered at EPO
(https://www.epo.org/applying/online-services/representatives.html);
- a permanent member of the EPI Council (European Patent Institute - https://patentepi.org/en/epi-bodies/council-members-2020-2023.html#c-RS,
- a long-time member of the EPI Disciplinary Committee https://patentepi.org/en/epi-bodies/the- disciplinary-committee.html;
- President of the AIPPI Group for Serbia - https://aippi.rs/o-nama/,
- a long-term member of the Examination Committee of the Intellectual Property Office of the Republic of Serbia in the process of obtaining the title of patent and/or trademark attorney;
- a long-time member of INTA - International Trademark Organization.

Dejan Bogdanović is recognized in the world by many international publications in the field of IP, some of which are:

Chambers & Partners Europe 2025
https://chambers.com/lawyer/dejan-bogdanovic-europe-7:322089

WTR (World Trademark Review) 2025
https://www.worldtrademarkreview.com/rankings/wtr-1000/profile/firm/mikijelj-jankovic-bogdanovic

LEGAL 500 2025
https://www.legal500.com/rankings/ranking/c-serbia/intellectual-property/13345-mikijelj-jankovic-bogdanovic

From 2004 till now I work as patent attorney and I'm on a list of professional representative before EPO. My field is biochemical engineering and biotechnology.
I wish to join this committee because it offers an opportunity to contribute to improving practices and decision-making in the field of intellectual property. With extensive experience in patent prosecution, validity assessment, and strategic IP management, I have developed a solid understanding of both legal and practical aspects of the European patent system. I am eager to share this experience and to collaborate with colleagues in strengthening the profession.

Curriculum Vitae
Name: Nada Herak
Position Sought: EPI Counsel Election Candidate
________________________________________
Professional Summary
Experienced Patent and Trademark Attorney with over 20 years of extensive expertise in intellectual property law, patent prosecution, and IP rights management at national and international levels. Proven leadership in IP consultancy, legal representation, and strategic IP dispute resolution. Member of key professional bodies, with a solid track record in IP policy and litigation. Committed to advancing the interests of the IP community through strategic counsel and collaborative engagement.
________________________________________
Employment History
2024 – Present HERAK, Consulting Agency, Belgrade, Serbia
Patent & Trademark Attorney, EPO and UPC representative
• Providing consulting services for national/international IP rights protection
• Drafting and revising IP agreements, patent/trademark applications
• Managing IP portfolio using CMS systems
2021 – 2024 Clarivate, Belgrade, Serbia
Senior Manager, IP Consultant
• Managed global reinstatement of IP rights, aligning legal strategy with commercial realities
• Led an international team, ensuring successful outcomes in reinstatement processes
• Led direct contact with rights holders and agents
2015 – 2021 PETOŠEVIĆ, Belgrade, Serbia
Patent & Trademark Attorney / Independent Consultant
• Advised international clients on patent prosecution, patent oppositions, and nullity proceedings
• Conducted patent searches, validity, and infringement analyses
• Managed national/international patent and SPC applications (EP/PCT), and handled enforcement projects
2004 – 2015 Law Office PPSP, Belgrade, Serbia
Patent & Trademark Attorney
• Prepared and prosecuted patent/SPC and trademark applications
• Drafted responses to Official Actions and legal reports
• Managed EPO/PCT and TM procedures
2002 – 2004 Law Office PPSP, Belgrade, Serbia
Trainee Patent & Trademark Attorney
• Translated patent applications
• Assisted in patent and TM prosecution and client correspondence
2000 – 2002 Q LT Inc., Vancouver, Canada
QC Analyst II
• Developed and validated HPLC/GC analytical methods in compliance with GMP/FDA regulations
• Managed SAP systems and laboratory data integrity
________________________________________
Certifications & Memberships
• Member of Biotech Committe, and associate memner of EPPC Committees, (2025)
• Member, Association of Scientific & Technical Translators, Serbia (2013)
• Professional Representative before EPO & EPI Member (2011)
• Registered Patent Representative, Serbia (2004)
• Member, Serbian Chemical Society (1992)
________________________________________
Education & Training
• European Patent Litigation Certificate, ERA & Maastricht University, 2024
• Internship & Traineeship for Patent Professionals at the EPO, 2014 & 2015
• Certification in Scientific & Court Translation, Serbia, 2013
• MSc in Chemistry, University of Belgrade, 2009
• Patent Attorney Registration, Serbian Patent Office, 2004
________________________________________
Key Skills & Competencies
• IP Law & Litigation
• Patent & Trademark Prosecution
• Strategic IP Portfolio Management
• International IP Policy & Advocacy
• IP Dispute Resolution & Negotiation
• Multilingual Communication & Translation
• Leadership & Team Management
________________________________________
References
Available upon request.

Mara Janković advises clients on intellectual property matters and is responsible for the protection of their IP rights. She represents clients in trademark infringement litigation and customs action proceedings.Mara also advises and represents clients in general commercial law matters before Serbian courts.

Uroš Plavša
European Patent Attorney at Plavša&Plavša patentna kancelarija, Belgrade, Serbia
Email: [email protected]
Date of Birth: 24.11.1979

As a devoted professional in the field of intellectual property, I am deeply committed to enhancing both the standards and visibility of the European patent profession in Serbia and throughout the wider European community. I work to strengthen the connection between national practice and European patent standards. Serving on the EPI Council would afford me the opportunity to contribute my experience, advance regional integration, and foster collaboration and knowledge sharing among EPI members.
As a patent and trademark attorney with extensive experience in industrial property protection, prosecution, and strategic IP consulting, I have represented a diverse portfolio of domestic and international clients before national and international IP offices. My practice combines legal precision with practical insight into business and innovation processes, ensuring high quality and effective IP protection.
I am responsible for patents, trademarks and design prosecution, opposition, and enforcement, as well as strategic IP counseling. I advise clients in various technical fields, always with consideration of European and international IP practice. I also supervise a team of IP professionals providing comprehensive IP services and offer legal and strategic counsel to technology-driven companies and inventors.
I am a member of the European Patent Institute (EPI) and a registered Patent and Trademark Attorney in Serbia since 2007. I am also an active participant in IP professional associations and working groups focused on improving regional IP frameworks and cooperation.
I actively promote awareness and education on the value of IP protection in Serbia and the Balkan region and contribute to strengthening cooperation between European and regional IP professionals, supporting the harmonization of local practices with EPO and EU standards.

Bojan Šunderić is an attorney-at-law and European Patent Attorney with more than 15 years of experience advising and representing domestic and international clients in intellectual property matters. He regularly handles patent and trademark enforcement, anti-counterfeiting actions, licensing and technology transfer, and IP proceedings before Serbian courts and authorities, as well as the WIPO and EPO.
He is a member of the Belgrade Bar Association and registered representative before the Serbian Intellectual Property Office and the European Patent Office.

Marija Tomic is a Senior Patent Attorney at Zivko Mijatovic and Partners. She is qualified European Patent Attorney and Serbian Trademark and Patent Attorney. She also works as a patent translator.
She has graduated at the University of Belgrade, Faculty of Biology, where she also obtained her MSc degree in Biological Sciences. She worked as the assistant to professor at same faculty for four years. During this time, she participated in multiple national and international projects and published results of her research. She worked as a researcher at the Institute for soil science in Belgrade until 2005. In parallel, from 2001 she acted as patent advisor and translator for different law offices in Serbia.
From 2005 she is employed at Zivko Mijatovic & Partners in Belgrade, intellectual property law office. During the years, she covered a wide range of different activities among which are: patent translations in the field of medical science, biotechnology, pharmacy, biology, and related areas, patent prosecution, patent and trademark searches, patent infringements, recruiting and educating translators, but also lawyers and administrative staff in patent matters. She passed exam for Serbian Patent and Trademark Attorney in 2014. Marija also attended three-year Candidate Support Project program at the EPO. She passed the EQE exam in 2017. Since 2018 she acted as EQE tutor for several years for different EQE exams.
Marija is a member of the EPI, AIPPI, FICPI, she is on the list of a professional representatives before the Serbian Intellectual Property Office, and she is also Member of the EPI Council.

My initial professional experience in intellectual property, with a particular focus on industrial property, began at the Intellectual Property Office of the Republic of Serbia, where I worked as a patent examiner. In 2001, I transitioned from the IP Office to private practice joining Mikijelj Janković & Bogdanović.
With a background in chemistry, I have developed substantial expertise in drafting and filing patent applications, SPC applications, patent prosecution, and formulating patent strategies. My specialization encompasses industrial property rights in the areas of chemistry, pharmaceuticals, pesticides, biochemistry, and biotechnology. Additionally, I assist clients in securing plant variety rights and managing internet domain registrations.
I have served three terms as a full member of the epi Council and hope to earn your vote to continue contributing to our profession.

Mihajlo Zatezalo
Attorney at Law | Patent and Trademark Attorney | European Patent Attorney
Mihajlo has 30 years of experience in the field of intellectual property (IP), with a strong focus on the wider Balkan region and Eastern Europe. He has advised and represented numerous multinational companies across a range of industries, particularly in complex trademark and patent litigation, and enforcement matters. His work regularly involves court representation, negotiating with infringers, and close cooperation with customs, police, and market inspectorate authorities.
Throughout his career, Mihajlo has contributed to numerous capacity-building initiatives. He was part of a U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) project aimed at improving the structure and processes of the Serbian Intellectual Property Office (2007–2008), and later participated in an EU-funded project to strengthen the Institute for Intellectual Property of Bosnia and Herzegovina (2015).
Mihajlo is an active member of several international intellectual property organizations. He is a member of INTA, FICPI, AIPPI, and member of the Belgrade Bar Association.
He is also a Member of the Council of the European Patent Institute (EPI) since 2014, and he is on EPI’s Litigation Committee.
Mihajlo has continuously been recognized by the IP community as an expert in this field. Various ranking organizations for the legal industry, such as Chambers & Partners, Legal 500, WTR 1000 rankings, Who’s Who Legal have ranked him in the highest ranking tiers for his professional achievements for almost 20 years.
He regularly represents at industry conferences and professional meetings. He also delivers lectures and training sessions on various IP-related topics.
Mihajlo contributed the chapter on Serbia to the ‘’Patent Enforcement in Europe” guide published by the European Patent Office (EPO). “Patent Enforcement in Europe” is a compilation of country profiles which provide comprehensive insight into national enforcement practices and procedures in the European Patent Convention (EPC) contracting states.

I am an European Patent Attorney and an Authorised Patent Attorney (SE), with extensive experience in the field of patents since 1991. My career has provided me with a broad and in-depth understanding of intellectual property, both as an in-house advisor and within private practice.

At present, I serve as an in-house patent attorney within the Volvo Group. In this capacity, I am responsible for managing and protecting the company’s intellectual property assets, and providing guidance on patent matters.

Prior to my current role, I held similar positions at several organisations, including AkzoNobel, AstraZeneca, the Trelleborg Group, and RISE Research Institutes of Sweden. In addition to my in-house roles, I have accumulated many years of experience working in private practice across three different patent law firms. This diverse background has equipped me with a comprehensive perspective on the patent landscape from both corporate and consultancy viewpoints.

I have been actively involved with the epi Council since 2014, serving alternately as a full member and substitute member. Furthermore, I have contributed to the work of the Professional Conduct Committee (PCC) of epi, initially as a substitute member from 2020 to 2023, and subsequently as a full member from 2023 to 2026.

My commitment to the professional community extends further. Since 2010, I have served as President of the Swedish Intellectual Property (IP) Attorneys Association. Additionally, since 2013, I have been a Technical Expert before the Swedish Patent and Market Court.
I have also been a member of the Swedish Patent Attorneys' Board, serving from its inception in 2010 until 2025.

It would be an honour and a pleasure to continue representing the Swedish patent profession for yet another period, building upon my experience and ongoing commitments.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/perbjerndell/

Highlights:
I am currently responsible for Höganäs Global IP function,
Handling IP assets globally, including Patents, Trademarks, Copyright and Domain names.
Developing and overseeing the execution of IP strategies globally aligning them with the business goals.
Track record of Process Development and Implementation.
M&A support, Licensing negotiations. Budgeting responsibilities.
European Patent attorney and Litigator
Experience speaker at IP conferences, an active member of several IP communities

Head of IP at Höganäs AB
November 2020 - present

Corporate Patent Attorney at Höganäs AB
Höganäs, February 2020- November 2020

European Patent Attorney at Zacco, Chemistry Team Copenhagen-Lund, December 2018-2020

Patent Attorney at Zacco, Life Science and Chemistry Team
Copenhagen-Lund, December 2016-2018

Patent Attorney at Nordic Patent Service
Copenhagen, Denmark March 2015 - November 2016;

IP Analyst at BioInvent International AB
Lund, Sweden 2008-2013

Patent Attorney at Patent and Law agency, “Doubinsky & Osharova”
Kyiv, Ukraine, 2003-2004

Examiner and thereafter Senior Examiner at the Patent Office of Ukraine
Kyiv, Ukraine, 2001-2003


DEGREES
Bachelor degree from Law Faculty Strasbourg 2024 UPC patent litigation;
PhD Degree Lund University, Lund Sweden 2004 - 2008;
Master of Science with Honours, Kyiv State University, Ukraine,1998;
Bachelor of Science, Intellectual Property Kiev Ukraine, 2001;

Highlights TRAINING AND SEMINARS
Unified Patent Court Litigation Certificate 2024
EQE passed 2018
Delta-Patents EQE training 2017
CEIPI -2015-2016,
EUCAD claim drafting course, FICPI Hamburg March 2016, August 2015
Regular updates on the Case Law, Opposition at the EPO

Highlights SPEAKING at the IP conferences

IP Law European Summit Cannes 2024;
IP Law European Summit Paris 2023;
Nordic IP Forum 2019.

LANGUAGES
Swedish, English, Danish, Ukrainian

As shown below, I have worked for 40 years in the three major fields of IP practice - as EPO examiner, in-house counsel and private practice.
This varied exeprience has given me a pragmatic and commercially-aware approach to IP. I am often consulted on EPO practice by my peers and asked for advice on how to deal with complicated situations. I have lectured on IP at training course at the Swedish Patent Office and Swedish IP Academy, and frequently given presentations (often on my favourite subject - oppositions) at IP conferences around the world.

I am currently a member of the European Patent Practice Committe for Mechanics and a deputy Council member.

Intellectual property has not only been my profession for more than 40 years, but also my passion and I am convinced that a fair, robust and predictable European patent environment is a positive force in an increasingly chaotic world.

I believe 100% in inclusion and fairness. Last year I represented Sweden at the 97th. Council meeting as deputy member, and succesfully argued against a motion which would have made our institute less inclusive by raising the entry requirements for becoming a European Patent Attorney.

My background is as follows:
1979-1983 BSc student in Mechanical Engineering with French, University of Bath, UK and undergraduate apprentice at Westland Helicopters PLC, Weston-super-Mare, UK
1983-1993 EPO examiner, DG1, Den Haag
1993-1995 CEO of book publisher and mailorder aviation equipement retailer, Uppsala, Sweden.
1995-1998 European Patent Attorney at Albihns Patentbyrå AB, Stockholm, Sweden.
1999-2000 European Patent Attorney at Brann AB, patent attorney firlm, Uppsala, Sweden.
2000-2006 In-house counsel Amerhsam Pharmacia Biotech (later GE Heathcare) in Uppsala, Sweden and Little Chalfont, UK
2006-2017 European Patent Attorney at Brann AB, Uppsala, Sweden
2017 to date European Patent Attorney at Hynell Patenttjänst AB, now Bjerkén HYnell KB.

1998 Master of Science in Chemical Engineering, KTH Royal Tehncial Highschool, Stockholm
1998-2002 Patent Examiner Swedish Patent Office
2002-2006 Global IP manager Private Company
2006-2025 Private Practise Patent Attorney Zacco Sweden AB

2012 EPA
2018 UPC representative
2020 National Patent Attorney Sweden

Patentrelated work in all technical areas, except for Lifescience. Not much done in terms of Medicine and Genomics.
Experience from Human Necessities, Software, Material handling vehicles, Demolition Robots, Aerospace, Chemical Processes, Pulp and Paper, Inorganic Chemistry and more.
Currently mainly active in Oppositions.

Speak English, Swedish, French and have some knowledge in German

I have 15 years of experience as a patent attorney, both from private practice and as an in-house patent counsel, which obviously has given me an understanding of the current and future challenges that both sides of our profession faces. Areas I am particularly interested in include clarifying to what extent we as European Patent Attorneys can rely on Client-Attorney Privilege, particularly in a global context, harmonization of patent laws and practices, and the ongoing debate around SEPs, and to what extent EU regulatory proposals should play a role in this context. Like many in our profession, I am closely following how machine learning in general, and transformer models and generative AI in particular, are reshaping our profession in terms of opportunities and challenges. I believe this is a discussion that sometimes would benefit from a stronger focus on how the fundamental technologies actually work.

2024-present, Senior Patent Attorney, Volvo Cars
2018-2024, Patent Attorney/Senior Patent Attorney, Ericsson
2011-2018, Patent Attorney, Zacco

Before that, various positions at e.g. Saab Automotive Powertrain and General Motors, e.g. involving being Swedish representative at European standardization body, CEN, Comité Européen de Normalisation.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/magnus-gynnerstedt-0841234/

European Patent Attorney with over 20 years’ experience in intellectual property across industry, government, and academia. Currently leading IP strategy development and implementation at TRATON Group R&D, where I design cross-brand IP structures and guide policy alignment within a global organisation. My work combines practical patent management with research on the organisational and social dimensions of patent value, completed as part of my Ph.D. at the Stockholm School of Economics. I am passionate about fostering collaboration between IP professionals, engineers, and business leaders, and about strengthening the profession’s role in shaping Europe’s innovation landscape.

Dear Colleugeas, as Secretary of the Intellectual Property Commercialization Committee (IPCC), I work closely with representatives across Europe to contribute and improve the commercial aspects of our profession. With around 18 years of experience in private practice and industry, I’m passionate about connecting innovation, ethics, and practical IP strategy. Recognised in the IAM Strategy 300, I believe EPI’s strength lies in collaboration and the open exchange of experience among members. I’m applying to the Main Council to contribute to a forward-looking, inclusive, and transparent professional community that continues to raise the standard of our profession.

Detailed CV: www.linkedin.com/in/isaksson83

We live in a world with rising nationalism in Europe and beyond. With epi, I want to play a small part in strengthening cooperation and understanding across borders in the context of our profession. I am a patent attorney and partner with Kransell & Wennborg, where I have worked for over fifteen years, and have been active in the patent field since 2004. I passed the EQE in 2008 and qualified as a European Patent Litigator in 2024. Before entering the patent profession, I spent several years in software development and management consulting, working in Sweden, the UK and the Netherlands. My technical expertise covers software, telecommunications, electronics, multimedia, power systems, and semiconductors.

Having lived in English-speaking countries for seven years, I am fully fluent in English. I also know basic French and some Japanese after studying Japanese for six months in Tokyo.

I wish to contribute to the continued development of the European patent profession and to strengthen dialogue both among epi members and with the EPO. With my experience in both private practice and the development side, together with an international outlook, I believe I can serve the epi community well.

European patent attorney, Authorized patent attorney (SE) and European Patent Litigator with over 25 years of experience within software technology, telecommunication and patent law.

My practicing includes patent drafting and prosecution, patent portfolio management, agreements for research collaboration with academia and industry partners and issues related to employee inventions.

I am also engaged in procedural and substantive patent law harmonization as a member of the Business Europe delegation in Industry Trilateral (Europe, US, Japan) and IP5 (Trilateral, China, Korea). I am eager to voice my opinions on the European patent system as member of the Standing Advisory Committee before the EPO (Main SACEPO).

I have been a member of the epi Council since 2014 and I look forward to another period. I often take an active role in the debate, for example regarding the epi position on a possible grace period in Europe, scientific/ technical degree required for the EQE or the proposed EU SEP regulation to just mention a few recent topics. During the present period, I also served as the liaison between my fellow Swedish members of the Council and the epi Secretariat.

I wish to contribute to the development of the profession and epi, offering insight from experience across multiple industries and technology areas. I am hard-working and keen to assist wherever needed. As a recently qualified European Patent Attorney (EQE 2025), I hope to offer a fresh perspective on some matters.

My expertise lies in patent prosecution, and I have worked as a patent attorney with a law firm, as a patent examiner at the Swedish Patent Office (PRV), and currently as an in-house IP counsel. I have a total of seven years of experience in the IP field.

CV available on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/magnusandersnorgren/

Being a full member of Council since 2008 I would be honored and happy to continue to represent all EPAs of Sweden together with fellow Council members.

2021-present Head of Group IP at Stora Enso Oyj
2020-2021 Gobal Head of Group Patents at AB Electrolux
2008-2020 Head of Patents at Scania CV AB
2003-2008 European Patent Attorney at Scania CV AB
1998-2003 Patent Attorney at Scania CV AB
1995-1998 Examiner at Swedish Patent Office

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stina-sj%C3%B6gren-paulsson-8755341/

2025– European Patent Attorney at DuraIP
2021–2025 European Patent Attorney at Trivium IP
2011–2021 Patent Manager at Sandvik
2010–2011 Patent Manager at Valea
2006–2010 Patent Attorney and Manager at Zacco
2002–2006 Inhouse Patent Attorney at Alfa Laval
2000–2002 Patent Examiner at Swedish Patent and Registration Office (PRV)
1995–2000 MSc Mechanical Engineering at Royal Institute of Technology (KTH)

With over 20 years of experience in the IP field, I have worked both in-house and in private practice, gaining broad and deep expertise across various aspects of IP. Currently, I serve as a Senior Patent Attorney at Essity, primarily supporting the Professional Hygiene business in IP matters.

My career has spanned stimulating and demanding environments, allowing me to develop strong competencies in in the field such as patent drafting and prosecution, portfolio management, IP enforcement, and strategic IP planning.

I hold a PhD in Biochemistry and an MSc in Chemical and Administrative Sciences.

If elected to the Council, I aim to contribute not only with technical and legal expertise, but also with a practical understanding of the challenges and opportunities we face as patent professionals today.

• 2015–Present: Senior Patent Attorney / European Patent Attorney / Authorized Patent Attorney (SE), Essity Hygiene and Health AB
• 2010–2015: European Patent Attorney / Authorized Patent Attorney (SE), VALEA
• 2002–2010: European Patent Attorney / Patent Attorney, AWA (Awapatent)
•
A more detailed CV is available on https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronneywiklund

Regular member of SE representation at epi Council 2023-2026 and serving my third period.

2020 - Current: Head of patents/Patent manager at Epiroc Rock Drills AB (Epiroc Group)
2011-2020: Senior partner, IP Consultancy firm Zacco AB
2000-2011: Group Patent Director, Saab AB (Saab Group)
1995-2000: Patent Manager, Ericsson Radio Communications AB
(https://www.linkedin.com/in/margareta-ydreskog-5625265/)

An EQE qualified European and also a Slovenian Patent Attorney with a history of working in the research at Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana. Background in microbiology, biotechnology, genetics, molecular cloning, bacterial physiology and bacterial communication. A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) focused in general microbiology obtained at University of Ljubljana. A member of the epi PEC and active tutor for epi EPAC course in 2024 and 2025.

Born 1961 in Kranj, Slovenia (SI). Graduated on University in Ljubljana in 1984 (Mechanical Engineering). After several years of practical experiences in industry, I started in the field of IP as a national patent and desing atorney. In 1993 established my own patent & trademark agency, starting with national and PCT- patent applications. Since 2003 active also as European patent attorney; drafting, filing and processing applications with the EPO, but generally worldwide. Active also in EPI as a Council member.

Marjanca graduated from the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering of the University of Ljubljana. She was subsequently awarded a master’s degree from the same Faculty. She spent a couple of years working in industry until September 2001, when she joined Patentna pisarna d.o.o. She passed examination for a Slovenian Patent Attorney in 2002 and registered the same year also as the European Patent Attorney. Since 2005 she has been a registered European Trade Mark and Design Attorney.

I was born in Šempeter pri Gorici in Slovenia and studied Biochemistry / Molecular Genetics at the University of Ljubljana and the ‘Université de Paris-Sud XI’ in France (PhD). From 2001, I have been involved in various intellectual property tasks, from decision making processes of various patent /trademark strategies to patent litigations and organisational / leadership matters. Since 2018, I have been the Head of the IP department at Krka, a leading Slovenian pharmaceutical company. Personally, I support collaboration, constructive thinking and integrity.

Gregor Maček je diplomiral tako s področja elektrotehnike kot tudi s področja prava na Univerzi v Ljubljani. V pravni pisarni ITEM d.o.o. se je zaposlil leta 1997 in v letu 2000 prevzel vlogo direktorja. Deluje zlasti na področju prava znamk, domen, patentov, modelov ter zastopa stranke tudi pred sodiščem. Aktivno je sodeloval pri pripravi sprememb Zakona o industrijski lastnini v letih 2001, 2006, 2020 in 2022. Napisal je znatno število člankov v mednarodnih publikacijah in ob številnih priložnostih predaval na temo slovenske zakonodaje in sodne prakse.

My name is Renata Osolnik, I come from Slovenia and am of Slovenian nationality. After having finished my PhD in organic chemistry in 2003, I have been working as an in-house IP consultant for Krka d.d., Novo mesto, a Slovenian generic manufacturer of pharmaceuticals, and as deputy head of the IP department since 2005.
I passed the Slovenian national examination in 2007, and the EQE in 2008. As from 2017 I have been one of the epi Council members for Slovenia. My detailed CV is available at the following link: https://www.linkedin.com/in/renata-osolnik-98843015/. My mother tongue is Slovenian, but I am fluent in English and German, and I have some basic knowledge of French, Croatian, and Italian.

In 2001, I completed my studies at the Institute of Intellectual Property of the Industrial Property Office of the Slovak Republic and successfully passed the qualifying examination to become a Slovak Patent Attorney. In 2002, I became a European Patent Attorney.
I hold a law degree from the Faculty of Law at Comenius University in Bratislava. In 2006, I passed the Slovak Bar Examination and was subsequently admitted as an attorney-at-law to the Slovak Bar Association.

European patent attorney (EQE qualified) in private practice, primarily providing services in the prosecution field.
Currently serving as Council substitute member, as well as member of the Disciplinary committee (serving in 2 distinct chambers and been actively involved in 6 cases during my tenure) and Professional education committee, both since 2023.
I am also serving as member of the Slovak Patent Attorney Chamber (aka Institute) Presidium since 2013.
Beyond my professional work with clients, I am also actively involved in IP-related policy work in Slovakia with respective stakeholders and governmental organisations, legislative processes as well as in the innovation ecosystem, fostering presence of financial means targeting innovation funding and protection by serving as consultant to governmental and non-profit organisations involved in IP matters.

I have been a European Patent Attorney since 2002. I am a partner at the patent and trademark agency MAJLINGOVA & PARTNERS, s.r.o. in Bratislava. I have extensive experience in drafting and prosecuting patent applications, and my technical background is in chemical engineering.

I am a Member of the Slovak Chamber of Patent Attornyes from 1993.
In 2002, I became a European Patent Attorney.

Professional activities:
1989 Professional stay in Finland – 6 months – HAKA Lahti oy.
1998 – 01 JUDr. Miroslav BUDAJ, Heydukova 31, Bratislava, Slovak Republic – Advocate, patent and trade mark office - attorney clerk
Dec.1998 Specialist exams on the Industrial Property Office of the Slovak Republic
Feb. 1999 Member of the Slovak Chamber of Patent Attorneys– authorisation for trade marks and appellation of origin – Self standing of the Patent attorney
Dec.1999 Specialist exams on Industrial Property Office of the Slovak Republic – license for patents, topography, etc.
May 2001 Advocate exams
June 2001 Member of the Slovak Advocate Chamber
June 2001
Independent Advocate office – orientation on commercial and civil law, industrial property law, copyright, bankruptcy law, etc.
March 2005 Beginning of the activity of common advocate, patent and trade mark office NEUSCHL, LESAJ & Partners
April 2005
Elected for the position of the chairman of Slovak Chamber of Patent Attorneys
Dec. 2005 Specialist exams for the Assignee of a bankrupt’s estate – registration on the list of assignees

PERSONAL DETAILS
Name Giampaolo Agazzani
Date of birth February 1st 1957
Mobile Phone (+39) 335 6060811
Telephone (+39) 051 482757; 051 489996
Email address [email protected]
Legal Mail [email protected]

WORK EXPERIENCE
February 2000 - present
Industrial Property Attorney and Administrator
c/o RSM Patents & Trademarks S.r.l. - San Marino

February 1998 - present
Industrial Property Attorney and Administrator
c/o Agazzani & Associati S.r.l. - Bologna (IT)

March 1992 - February 1998
Industrial Property Trainee and then Attorney
c/o Invention S.r.l. - Bologna (IT)
c/o Iterbrevetti S.r.l. - Bologna (IT)

June 1983 - March 1992
Employed in IT and telecommunications applied to graphic arts publishing telecommunications
c/o Gruppo Hyphen S.p.A. - Bologna (IT)

EDUCATION AND FORMATION
2024 Civil and Commercial Mediator at
National Mediation Chamber
2009 European patent Attorney
2003 European design Attorney
2000 San Marino patent, trademark
and design Attorney
1999 Enrollment in the register of
Tribunale di Bologna as Court Expert
1996 European trademark Attorney
1996 Italian patent, trademark and
designs Attorney
1982 Master's Degree in Electronic
Engineering - University of Bologna (IT)
1976 Scientific High School

MANDATES AND ASSOCIATIONS
2014 - current EPI Council Full Member
2017 - current EPI PEC Full Member
2023 - current EPI PCC Full Member
2019 - 2022 EPI PCC Substitute Member
2014 - 2017 EPI Board Member
2011 - 2014 EPI DC Member
2009 - current EPI Member
1996 - current Italian IP Member
2000 - current RSM IP Member
1998 - current AIPPI Italia Member
2019 - current INTA Member

LANGUAGES
Italian (native)
English (proficient);
French (average);
Spanish (basic).

REFRESHER COURSES
11/2024-04/2025 European Patent Litigator course
at Politecnico of Milan 01/2024-06/2024 Civil and Commercial Mediator
course and traineeship
11-12/2023 second court expert training course
11-12/2022 first court expert training course

APPOINTED AS EXPERT IN ITALIAN COURTS
1994 - 2025 n. 72 assignments as CIVIL court
appointed expert
1999 - 2012 n. 36 assignments as PENAL
court appointed expert

Born in Campobasso, Italy on December 13, 1947
EDUCATION
1972 - Master Degree in Mechanical Engineering, aeronautical specialization from University of Genoa (IT) with honours cum laude
WORK EXPERIENCE
1972 - Teaching assistant at University of Genoa, Machine Project
1973 - Quality Assurance deputy manager at FIAT Aircraft Engines, Turin
1975 - Quality Control Manager at Aero Piaggio, Genoa,
1980 – Search examiner at the European Patent Office, The Hague
1984 – Substantive examiner at the European Patent Office, Munich
1988 - Patent attorney at Internationale Brevetti Dini, Maranesi & C.
1997- founder and manager of Maroscia & Associati patent and trademark attorneys with offices in Vicenza and joint office in San Marino.
QUALIFICATION
• Italian patent, trademark and design attorney
• San Marino patent, trademark and design attorney
• European patent attorney
• Patent Expert appointed by Italian Courts specialized in Intellectual Property
• European Patent Litigator
LANGUAGES
- Italian mother tongue
- English fluent
- French fluent
- German good knowledge
- Dutch basic knowledge
MEMBERSHIP
- Italian Intellectual Property Association;
- EPI
- AIPPI
- ECTA
- Former full member and substitute member of EPI Council
- Former member of EPPC Committee
- Substitute Member of PCC Committee

EDUCATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
■ University Master Degree in Law, academic year 1992-93, degree thesis entitled “Le innovazioni biotecnologiche” (Biotechnological Innovations)
■ Master’s Degree in Intellectual Property Law, Washington D.C., USA, October 1995 – September 1996
■ European Patent Attorney
■ Italian Patent Attorney
■ Republic of San Marino Patent Attorney
■ European Union Trademark Attorney
■ Italian and Republic of San Marino Trademark Attorney
■ European Community Design Attorney
■ Italian and Republic of San Marino Design Attorney
■ Attorney-at-law
■ Unified Patent Court Representative
■ Panelist for the ADR procedures on .eu domains
■ Member of the List of Neutrals of the WIPO Arbitration and Mediation Center
■ Member of the European Patent Practice Committee commission of the professional representative of EPO
■ Member of the Executive Italian committee of AIPPI (International Association for the Protection of Intellectual Property)
■ Contract professor at University of Trieste, Italy, Degree course in Economics, course on “Intellectual Property Rights”

LANGUAGES
Italian, English and Spanish.

PRESENT POSITION
■ Partner of GLP Srl, Intellectual Property Firm, with main offices in Milan and Udine, operative offices in Bologna and Perugia;
■ Head of the GLP Srl Litigation Department;
■ Partner of DADA Srl, Company specialised in the Management and Renewal of Industrial Property Rights and international contracts;
■ Partner of Kivial Srl, Company for Internet Domain Names Management and Internet related issues;
■ Partner of RSM Patents & Trademarks, Company specialized in industrial right, with office in the Republic of San Marino.

MEMBERSHIP IN PROFESSIONAL BODIES
■ AIDB, Associazione Italiana Documentaristi Brevettuali
■ AIPPI, International Association for the Protection of Intellectual Property
■ APAA, Asian Patent Attorneys Association
■ ASSOCIPI, Italian Industrial Property Consultants Association
■ Italian Association of Intellectual Property Consultants
■ ECTA, European Communities Trade Mark Association
■ EPI, European Patent Institute
■ INDICAM, Centromarca Institute for fight against counterfeiting
■ INTA, International Trademark Association
■ LES ITALIA, Licensing Executives Society
■ MARQUES, Association of European Trademark Owners
■ SISPI, Società Italiana per lo Studio della Proprietà Intellettuale

MAJOR PUBLICATIONS
■ Scambio di Tecnologia (Technology Exchange), 1998.
■ La Contitolarità nei Brevetti (Co-ownership in Patents), GLP, 1998.
■ Il Segreto Industriale (The Industrial Secret), GLP, 1998.
■ Le Azioni contro la Contraffazione e la Pirateria Commerciale (Actions against Infringement and Commercial Piracy), 2000.
■ La nuova legge Disegni e Modelli (The new Italian law on Designs and Models), Il GIORNALE PROMOSEDIA (magazine), 2001.
■ The new Italian Law on designs and models, International IP LAW FIRMS, 2004.
■ Il marchio nella costituzione di una società di diritto cinese (The Trademark in the Establishment of a Chinese Company), TeLex ANIE, 2005.
■ Il Codice della Proprietà Industriale – Tutela Giurisdizionale (The IP Code – Litigations), TeLex ANIE, 2005.
■ New IP law launches range of legal options, Managing Intellectual Property, 2006.
■ The Industrial Property Code: Jurisdictional Protection, IIC-International Review of Intellectual Property and Competition Law, 2006.
■ Appunti in tema di proprietà intellettuale (Remarks in the Issue of Intellectual Property), GLP, 2008 and successive revisions 2010, 2012, 2014, 2017.
■ Compendio alle novità introdotte dall’EPC 2000 (Compendium of Innovations introduced by EPC 2000), GLP, 2008.
■ Partnership to overhaul patent process, IP World Review, 2009.
■ Le nuove norme brevettuali in Cina, (The New Patent Regulations in China), GLP, 2009 and successive revisions 2010, 2014.
■ Le norme brevettuali in Corea del Sud (Patent Legislation in South Korea), GLP, 2012.
■ La tutela dell'italianità nei marchi, GLP, 2012 and successive revision 2015.
■ Autorità doganali e tutela degli IPR (Customs authorities and IPRs protection), GLP, 2014.
■ Normative nazionali in merito all'uso del Marchio (National Regulations on Trademark Use), GLP, 2015.
■ Italian IP BOX - Agevolazioni fiscali finalizzate alla ricerca ed alla sua protezione, GLP, 2016 and subsequent revisions 2017.
■ Border Seizure in the European Union – IAM Yearbook 2017, D.L. Petraz, C. Barilà, L. van der Heide, Globe Business Media Group, 2017.
■ Das italienische Gesetzbuch für das gewerbliche Eigentum – Codice della Proprietà Industriale Italiano (foreword), A. Venchiarutti, G. Giappichelli – Nomos, 2017.
■ Effective Use Of Community Design Protection – Designs: A Global Guide 2018, D.L. Petraz, C. Barilà, L. van der Heide, Globe Business Media Group, 2018.
■ Effective Use Of Community Design Protection – IAM Yearbook 2018, D.L. Petraz, C. Barilà, L. van der Heide, Globe Business Media Group, 2018.
■ 意大利专利：专家访谈 (Patents in Italy: industry expert interview), IAM Magazine China no. 8 2019/04, D.L. Petraz, D. Pilati, 2019.
■ イタリア：特許権者が – 知っておくべ きこと (Patents in Italy: industry expert interview), IAM Magazine Japan no. 2019/010, D.L. Petraz, D. Pilati, 2019.
■ Latest EU Trademark Developments – IAM Yearbook 2019, D.L. Petraz, C. Barilà, L. van der Heide, Globe Business Media Group, 2019.
■ Litigation and eligibility: Italy – Patents in Europe: Helping business compete in the global economy 2019/2020, D.L. Petraz, D. Pilati, Globe Business Media Group, 2019.
■ Litigating Design Disputes – Designs: A Global Guide 2019, D.L. Petraz, C. Barilà, L. van der Heide, Globe Business Media Group, 2019.
■ Policing Global Markets for Designs Infringement – Designs: A Global Guide 2020, D.L. Petraz, C. Barilà, A. Dalla Longa, Law Business Research, 2020.
■ EUIPO Filing Elite 2020, D.L. Petraz, C. Barilà, O. Grimani, World Trademark Review (WTR) – Law Business Research, 2020.
■ Global Patent Litigation 2021: Italy, D.L. Petraz, D.G. Petraz, D. Pilati, Law Business Research, 2021.
■ Policing Global Markets for Designs Infringement, D.L. Petraz, C. Barilà, A. Dalla Longa, Designs: A Global Guide, Law Business Research, 2021.
■ EUIPO Filing Elite 2021, D.L. Petraz, C. Barilà, O. Grimani, World Trademark Review (WTR) – Law Business Research, 2021.
■ Global Patent Litigation 2022: Italy, D.L. Petraz, D.G. Petraz, D. Pilati, Law Business Research, 2022.
■ Designs 2022: Italy, D.L. Petraz, C. Barilà, A. Dalla Longa, Law Business Research, 2022.
■ Italy: Patent litigation – Global Patent Litigation 2023, D.L. Petraz, D.G. Petraz, D. Pilati, Law Business Research, 2023.
■ Designs 2023: Italy, D.L. Petraz, C. Barilà, G. Costa, Law Business Research, 2023.
■ Evolving online route-to-market strategies and how to combat them (Anti-counterfeiting and Online Brand Enforcement: Global Guide 2024), D.L. Petraz, D.G. Petraz, World Trademark Review (WTR) – Law Business Research, 2024.
■ Advanced monitoring and AI algorithms essential to bolstering protection online (Anti-counterfeiting and Online Brand Enforcement: Global Guide 2025), D.L. Petraz, D.G. Petraz, World Trademark Review (WTR) – Law Business Research, 2025.

AREAS OF SPECIALIZATION
Intellectual Property (Patents, Designs, Trademarks, Litigation, licensing, domain names).

SUMMARY
Apart from being the head of the firm’s legal department, Davide L. Petraz’s daily business comprises consultancy related to patents, trademarks and designs.

Davide L. Petraz assists his National and International clients in Europe and in the main jurisdictions in proceedings regarding all aspects of Intellectual Property, from IP infringement to unfair competition, from the disclosure of trade secrets to employee inventions.

His academic preparation is completed by a remarkable experience in drafting license agreements and in analysing and managing Intellectual Property.

Furthermore, he has gained a considerable experience of representing different companies before the European Patent Office, mainly in opposition proceedings.

Andrea Tiburzi
Candidate for EPI Council
Rome, Italy, November 2025
Profile
European and Italian Patent Attorney with a strong background in electronic engineering and physics, and extensive experience in European and international patent practice. Over 20 years advising clients on patent drafting, prosecution (EP/US), oppositions, appeal proceedings, and litigation support, with specialization in mechanical, electronic, physics, medical devices and computer-implemented inventions.
Proven management and governance track record, including co-management of a major IP practice, leadership of international relations, and coordination of technical groups. Experienced in strategy, IP portfolio valuation, M&A IP due diligence, and international cooperation with foreign patent firms.
Former EPI Council, Board, and Finance Committee member, committed to strengthening the European patent profession, fostering quality standards, and promoting EPI visibility and effectiveness.
Professional Skills
• European & Italian Patent Attorney (qualified for UPC representation)
• Patent drafting, prosecution, opposition & appeal (EPO), Litigation support before Italian & German courts
• Technical areas: electronics, mechanics, CII, physics, medical technologies
• Budgeting, economic analysis & IP valuation (M&A, damages, transfer pricing)
• Public speaking, training, international networking

Professional Experience
Barzanò & Zanardo Roma S.p.A. (2002–present)
Manager – International Relations Group (since 2015)
European, Italian & San Marino Patent Attorney
Key responsibilities & achievements:
• Leadership of international partner network; negotiation and management of global cooperation and reciprocity agreements. Office manager. Coordination of Computer-Implemented Inventions & Electronics group. Extensive experience in EPO oppositions & appeals, including oral proceedings .Technical expert in Italian and German proceedings
• Support in IP valuation and M&A transactions
• Conference speaker in Europe, USA, and China

Education
• Executive MBA, University of Oxford (2022)
• B.Sc. in Physics, Sapienza University of Rome (2021)
• Advanced Patent Litigation Course (UPC qualification), University of Milan (2015–2016)
• Master in Corporate Finance & Management Accounting (2013)
• Master in M&A Corporate Transactions (2011)
• Master in International Taxation (2008)
• Electronic Engineering Degree, Sapienza University of Rome (2002)

Qualifications
• European Patent Attorney (2010)
• Italian & San Marino Patent Attorney (2006)
• Qualified Engineer, Italy (2002)
Memberships & EPI Involvement
• Former EPI Council Member
• Former EPI Board Member
• Former Member – EPI Finance Committee
• Member – EPPC European Patent Practice Committee
• AIPPI, APAA, AIPLA Member

Motivation for EPI Council
Committed to contributing to the strengthening of the European patent profession, promoting excellence in training and practice, and fostering constructive dialogue with the EPO and national offices. I aim to support EPI’s role in representing practitioners’ interests, improving professional standards, and reinforcing EPI’s international presence.

Qualified as EPA in 1997, I already served epi in a few committees and, as a full epi council member (2000-2023), as epi board member (2000-2017) and as vice-president (2008-2011). I am currently a substitute member.
I was elected by the EPO AC to the DBoA for five years (2019-2023) which was renewed for another term (2024-2029).

Professional Summary
- Patent Attorney TR–EP–UPC
- AIPPI Turkey Vice-President
- CEIPI Local Coordinator
- WIPO Trainer

Educational Roles
- Chair, Tutors & Coaches Subcommittee, PEC, epi
- epi Tutor
- CSP Coach

Languages
- Fluent English, French, B1-German, A1-Chinese, and native Turkish

Education
- B.Sc., Electrical Engineering – Technical University of Istanbul
- M.A., European Studies of Science, Technology and Society – Maastricht University
- CEIPI Diploma, Patent Litigation in Europe

Publications
- Author of three IP books in Turkey

Additional Activities
- Developer of educational iOS apps
- Sci-Fi Author – published works in speculative fiction
- YouTuber – Euro Patent Brief channel on patent law

IP Manager at Vestel Group of Companies | European Patent Attorney | UPC Representative

Education:
Patent Litigation in Europe Diploma, University of Strasbourg (2024)
MSc in Mechanical Engineering, Yildiz Technical University (2008)
BSc in Aeronautical Engineering, Middle East Technical University (1999)

Certificates:
UPC Representative (2024)
European Patent Attorney (2019)
HBS Negotiation Mastery (2019)
Turkish Patent Attorney (2007)
Turkish Trademark Attorney (2007)

Experience:
IP Director, Beko (2007 – Present)
She leads the development and execution of the company’s global IP strategy, ensuring alignment with business goals, innovation, and product development. She is responsible for the protection, enforcement, and monetization of patents, trademarks, designs, copyrights, and trade secrets across all markets. She also conducts comprehensive IP due diligence to assess risk, manage portfolios, and ensure freedom to operate in transactions and product launches, helping the company maintain a strong competitive edge in its industry.

Researcher, TUBITAK (2002-2007)

Memberships:
General Secretary, LES Turkey (2021 – Present)
Board Member, AIPPI Turkey (2018-2020)
Member of IP Working Group, EIRMA

I’m putting myself forward for election to the Council because I truly believe in the value of our profession and want to play a more active role in shaping its future. I was elected as a substitute member in 2023, and although in a supporting role, I made it a priority to attend all Council meetings as an observer; each meeting taking place in a different city. That experience gave me a solid understanding of how the Council operates and confirmed my motivation to contribute more directly. With an engineering background and a degree in law, I bring both legal insight and technical understanding; a combination I believe can add meaningful value to the Council’s work. I aim to represent the interests of my peers and contribute constructively to the Council’s discussions and decisions. I feel ready to take the next step and bring my energy, experience and commitment to the Council in a full capacity.

Professional Background
2020 – Founding & Managing Partner at US & Partners
2025 – Trainer for Court Appointed Experts
2015 – Court Appointed Expert at Specialized IP Courts of Istanbul - Prepared Expert Reports for almost 400 cases.
2014 – 2020 Patent & IP Leader at Organik Kimya R&D Center, Inventor of Patents: EP3176187B2, EP3623391B1
2010 – 2014 Scale Up Engineer at Organik Kimya Production Dept.

Educational Background
2022 – 2023 University of Strasbourg – CEIPI Diploma on Patent Litigation in Europe
2018 – 2019 – Master of Laws - LL.M, Economic Law, Galatasaray University (GPA: 3,55/4,00)
2014–2018 – Bachelor’s Degree in Law, Kadir Has University - Honour Scholarship recipient; graduated with the second-highest rank in class (GPA: 3.58/4.00)
2014 – 2016 CEIPI Basic Training Course in European Patent Law - Istanbul
2003 – 2009 B.Sc., Chemical Engineering – Istanbul Technical University
1996 – 2003 Robert College

Educational Roles & Activities at epi
CSP (Candidate Support Program) Coach
epi Tutor
Presenting at Tutor Consultation Hours
Giving Feedback to Candidates based on their Exam Papers in Tutorials
epi Mentor

Licences & Certifications
UPC Representative (2023)
European Patent Attorney (2022)
Attorney at Law (2020)
Turkish Patent Attorney (2013)
Turkish Trademark Attorney (2013)

Professional Memberships
epi Council Member (substitute) 2023
epi Litigation Committee Member 2024
Istanbul Bar Association 2020
Board Member at IP Committee of Istanbul Bar Association 2023 - 2025
AIPPI - International Association for the Protection of Intellectual Property 2022
AIPPI Standing Committee for Unitary Patent / Unified Patent Court 2025
FICPI - International Federation of Intellectual Property Attorneys 2024
EPLIT - European Patent Litigators Association 2024
TMMOB Chamber of Chemical Engineers 2015

Hülya ÇAYLI is a graduate of Gazi University holding a degree in Chemical Engineering. After completing her education, she worked for TURKPATENT as a Head of Patent Department. Hülya ÇAYLI left TURKPATENT in 2000 and became the co-founder of PARAGON CONSULTANCY & TRADE INC.

She obtained the Certificate in “Patent Litigation in Europe” from CEIPI, Strasbourg University and is a registered representative before the Unified Patent Court.

She is a Council Member of the EPI, Board Member of FICPI national group and a member of AIPPI.

Certificate
• Qualified Patent Information Professional 2025
• European Patent Attorney 2018
• Turkish Patent Attorney 2011
• Turkish Trademark Attorney 2011

Education
• University Diploma University of Strasbourg Patent Litigation in Europe 2021
• Master of Science (MSc) Yıldız Technical University Mechanical Engineering 2010
• Bachelor of Science (BSc) Yıldız Technical University Mechanical Engineering 2007

Experience
• InPera IP (2021 – Cont.)
o Founder - Intellectual Property Consultancy Services
• Istanbul Bilgi University (2021 - Cont.)
o Guest Lecturer – Protection of Inventions by Patents in Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences
• epi Tutor / CSP Coach (2019 – Cont.)
• Beko
o Team Leader (2016 – 2021)
o Senior Patent Attorney (2014 – 2016)
o Patent Attorney (2011 – 2014)

Membership
• Institute of Professional Representatives before the European Patent Office (epi)
o Council Member 2023 - Cont.
o Member 2018 – Cont.
• AIPPI Turkey
o Board Member 2021 – 2025
o Disciplinary Board Member 2018 – 2021
o Member 2011 – Cont.

European Patent Attorney with 16 years of experience characterized by meticulous, personalized, and non-industrialized service. I am passionately committed to quality in case handling and actively support the next generation of professionals through pro-bono mentoring of a junior attorney outside my practice. I aim to bring this same dedication to excellence and collegiality to the EPI Council.

Qualifications:
- European Patent Attorney (2024)
- Turkish Patent Attorney (2009)
- Turkish Trademark Attorney (2011)

Education:
- MSc Biomedical Engineering (Pamukkale University)
- BSc Physics Engineering (Hacettepe University)

Languages:
- Turkish
- English
- Spanish

Dr. Senem Kayahan graduated from the Department of Chemistry at Middle East Technical University (METU) in 1997 and earned her Ph.D. in 2004. Dr. Kayahan has an extensive academic and research portfolio, having published 33 articles in international refereed journals and contributed chapters to 4 books during her doctoral and post-doctoral studies. She has been a Turkish Patent Attorney since 2011 and became a European Patent Attorney in 2019. She has also served as a part-time lecturer at METU, teaching the course “Intellectual Property in Chemistry and Pharmaceuticals” in the Department of Chemistry. She was awarded the title of Associate Professor in 2018. Since 2021, Dr. Kayahan has been a full-time faculty member in the Department of Chemical Engineering at Istanbul Health and Technology University. In 2022, she established her own company, Senem Kayahan Patent Consulting Ltd. Dr. Kayahan is actively involved in the professional community. She is a member of the Patent and Trademark Attorneys’ Association and the International Association for the Protection of Intellectual Property (AIPPI). Additionally, she serves as a board member of Turkiye Patent Information User Group (TURPIUG).

Www.onurmutlupharmaip.com

Dear Colleagues,

I hereby present my motivation for asking your votes. My main objective is to represent our EPA community at highest level and reflect your specific needs and expectations before the EPI. As always, I will continue to report our EPA colleagues the most recent developments and discussions about the European patent law and practice. I will also continue to eagerly work for the involvement of our colleagues in decision making platforms and committees of the EPI.

As you may probably know, I am a Turkish & European Patent Attorney with almost 22 years of experience, serving to domestic and international clients in various technical fields. I am the Founder of INVOKAT Intellectual Property Services based in Istanbul and heading a team of engineers and lawyers specialized in diverse fields of IP.

Born: May 23, 1980
Place: Istanbul
e-mail: [email protected]

I) ACADEMIC BACKGROUND:
• BSc. Chemical Engineer (Hacettepe University): 1998-2003
• MSc. Chemical Engineer (Istanbul University, Chair of Process & Reactor Design): 2004-2007
• Diploma on Patent Litigation in Europe (CEIPI, Strasbourg): 2014-2015

II) PROFESSIONAL HISTORY:
• Intern Chem. Eng. on project basis (Bayer AG, Leverkusen): 2003-2004
• Became a Turkish Patent Attorney: 2004
• Became a European Patent Attorney (EQE): 2012
• Founded INVOKAT IPS: 2013

III) MEMBERSHIPS:
• EPI Council Member (Full)
• FICPI Türkiye (Board Member)
• AIPPI (Member of the Disciplinary Committee)

IV) INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION:
• World’s Leading Patent Professionals – IAM 1000
• Patent Star (IP Stars, Managing IP)

V) LANGUAGES:
• English (Fluent)
• German (Intermediate)

VI) PROFESSIONAL SKILLS AND EXPERIENCES:
• Patent drafting and prosecution, representation before TURKPATENT, EPO and WIPO
• Representative before the UPCs.
• Oppositions and oral proceedings
• Managing or assisting patent litigations, determining solid case strategies
• Particular experience in the technical fields of; Pharmaceuticals, Biotechnology, Industrial Chemicals, Reactors, Metallurgy and Nano-materials, Machinery, Household Appliances, Automotive.
• Ongoing mentorship to Start-ups and SMEs (Kandilli Health, Bogazici University, Fenerbahçe University)

Education:
Patent Litigation in Europe Diploma, University of Strasbourg (2019)
MSc in Engineering Management, Middle East Technical University (2010)
BSc in Mechanical Engineering, Middle East Technical University (2007)

Certificates:
UPC Representative (2024)
European Patent Attorney (2018)
Turkish Patent Attorney (2007)
Turkish Trademark Attorney (2007)

Experience:
European Patent Attorney, Terra Patent (2025 – Present)
Technical Leader, Beko (2023 – 2024)
Tutor, epi (2023 – Present)
Head Patent Engineer, ASELSAN (2020 – 2023)
Founding Partner, Tritech Patent (2011 – 2020)
Patent Attorney, Ankara Patent (2007 – 2011)

Memberships:
Council Member (substitute) (2020 – Present) and Litigation Committee Member (2020 – Present), Institute of Professional Representatives before the European Patent Office (epi)

European and Turkish Patent Attorney
UPC Representative

o Working in the patent profession since 2006, with 10 years of in-house experience in the pharmaceutical sector and 8 years in private practice.
o Specialized in patent litigation, prosecution, and IP strategy development, with a focus on multi-jurisdictional patent disputes and healthcare innovations.
o Former court-appointed patent expert at Turkish IP Courts.
o Active in patent training and mentorship, coaching EQE candidates since 2015, serving as an epi tutor and a former CSP coach.
o Consistently ranked among leading patent professionals by IP Stars, IAM Patent 1000, Legal 500 and LMG Life Sciences.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
- Deris Patent & Trademark Agency, Turkiye - European Patent Attorney | Partner (2017 - Present)
- Sanovel Pharmaceuticals, Turkiye - Patent Attorney (2011 - 2017)
- Nobel Pharmaceuticals, Turkiye - Patent Specialist (2006 - 2011)

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS & COMMITTEES
o European Patent Institute Council Member (S)
o AIPPI Member
o epi Tutor
o EPLIT Member

EDUCATION
o Bogazici University, BSc in Molecular Biology and Genetics
o Center for International Intellectual Property Studies (CEIPI), Diploma in Patent Litigation in Europe (2019/2020).

LANGUAGES
o English (Professional Proficiency)
o Turkish (Native)

Partner and Head of Patent Prosecution at Istanbul Patent, leading interdisciplinary IP teams and managing patent portfolios in mechanical, automotive, and manufacturing sectors.

Responsible for strategic IP counseling, patent drafting and prosecution, freedom-to-operate (FTO), infringement and validity analyses, and EPO/UPC litigation support.

Over 14 years of experience in intellectual property, integrating engineering expertise with deep legal knowledge and client-focused strategy.

European Patent Attorney (EQE 2022) and Turkish Patent Attorney (2013).

Completed the CEIPI “Patent Litigation in Europe” University Diploma (2025) and qualified as a UPC Representative.

Appointed court expert before Turkish IP Courts, with more than 100 expert reports submitted in patent infringement and invalidity cases.

Education:
M.Sc. Nanoscience & Nanoengineering, Istanbul Technical University
B.Sc. Mechanical Engineering, Sakarya University
Associate Degree in Law (Justice Program), Ankara University