Biotechnology Committee (Biotech)

Size:
One full member per EPC member state.

Mission & Impact:
The Biotechnology Committee drives patent policy for one of Europe's most dynamic innovation sectors. We tackle complex questions spanning biotechnology inventions, including Budapest Treaty matters, ensuring patent law evolves with scientific breakthroughs.

 
Current Focus Areas:

Standards & Guidelines:
WIPO ST.26 sequence listing implementation & compliance • EPO examination guideline quality & biotech-specific improvements • Plant patentability frameworks, including disclaimer strategies

Strategic Advocacy:　
Direct EPO engagement through specialized meetings & position papers • ST.25 to ST.26 conversion advocacy (including EPO Ombuds Office complaint) • First instance & appeal level biotech policy discussions

Legal Monitoring:
National biotech patent developments across EPC states • Gene patenting, antibody protection & SPC strategies • Emerging biotech patent challenges & opportunities

Committee Composition:
Our diverse team includes biotech patent specialists from across EPC contracting states, plus specialized associate members covering key biotech disciplines.

What We Seek in Members:
Essential Qualifications:　
Biotech prosecution experience across multiple jurisdictions • Technical knowledge in biotechnology fields • Strategic thinking on patent policy implications • Collaborative approach to cross-border patent challenges
Preferred Experience: • EPO opposition/appeal proceedings in biotech • Regulatory interface experience (EMA, national agencies)

Time Commitment:　
Quarterly meetings, ad-hoc EPO engagements, position paper development

 Terms of Reference of the Biotech Committee