A new European Patent System

For some time, a new European Patent System is being developed that should offer a simple alternative to the current validation process while simplifying the judicial process regarding patents within Europe. The two elements, the European patent with unitary effect and the patent court, are often referred to as Unitary Patent (UP) and Unified Patent Court (UPC) respectively. This page contains information on what exactly the UP and the UPC will entail, and on the effect of the new system on everyday practice. At present, it is not clear yet when the new system will take effect; up-to-date information on this point can be found at the bottom of this page. Continue reading

The impact of Brexit on IP rights

It seems that the United Kingdom will leave the European Union on 12 April, with or without a deal. Postponement, if any, is only possible if the British Parliament has as yet agreed to the so-called Withdrawal Agreement drawn up by Prime Minister Theresa May and the EU.The Parliament has explicitly stated that existing IP rights established in a EU context will be guaranteed both in case of a ‘deal’ Brexit and in case of a ‘no deal’ Brexit. We have taken a further look at what effect this will have on IP rights. Continue reading

The Nagoya Protocol and its impact on your research

The Nagoya Protocol is often believed to apply exclusively to the plant breeding sector. However, the influence of the protocol reaches much further. Almost everyone utilizing genetic resources for research may have to deal with it. From individuals and universities to multinationals in all sectors, everyone needs to check whether their research is covered by the protocol. Continue reading