As an expert in the field of physics, Hans concentrates on automotive technology, offshore, water treatment, medical devices, security documents and aerospace engineering. Hans advises a wide range of companies, from start-ups to multinationals.

He has ample experience in patent litigation before the courts of first instance and appeal in The Hague and in opposition and appeal cases before the European Patent Office. Hans was a managing partner and member of the supervisory board of one of the largest patent and trademarks firms in The Netherlands. He was a secretary of the Dutch Patent attorney association and is a member of the professional conduct committee of the European patent institute (EPI).

In his capacity as European Patent Litigator, Hans is allowed to act as UPC representative.

Working experience

• Partner at V.O. (2023-present)
• Patent attorney and partner (from 1999 on) with a large patent and trademark firm in The Hague (1995-2023)
• Patent attorney with Procter & Gamble (1992-1995)
• Patent attorney with Philips electronics (1988-1992)

Education

• Master of Science in engineering physics from University of Technology, Delft 1988.

Directories

• “Hans Bottema, a physics specialist advising clients from start-ups to multinationals, brings valuable leadership experience from senior roles within the profession” (IAM Patent 1000, 2026).
• “Hans Bottema boasts nearly 40 years as a leading patent professional in the Netherlands. His combination of in-house experience and a wealth of expertise in physics qualifies him to tackle the most complex questions at the intersection of intellectual property and automotive technology, medical devices and aerospace engineering.” (IAM Patent 1000, 2025).
• “Joining the team from NLO in October 2023, physicist Hans Bottema relishes working at the cutting edge of technology and leverages his in-house experience to effectively support inventors with both legal and business needs.” (IAM Patent 1000, 2024).
• “Physicist Hans Bottema relishes working at the cutting edge of technology and leverages his in-house experience to effectively support inventors with both legal and business needs.” (IAM Patent 1000, 2022).
• “ …Fellow physicist Hans Bottema has ample in-house and private practice experience, which informs his sage, business-minded counsel.” (IAM Patent 1000, 2020).
• Recognized as IP STAR by Managing IP in 2020 – 2026.

Professional & Community Activities

• Member of the Professional Conduct Committee of the EPI
• Member of the Dutch institute of patent attorneys, EPI, AIPPI, FICPI and UNION

Languages

• Dutch
• English
• German
• French