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Information and Communications Technology


The EPO's Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector covers an extremely wide variety of technical fields, including:

  • communication systems and networks
  • satellites
  • artificial intelligence (AI)
  • image processing and pattern recognition
  • cryptography
  • semiconductors
  • video games
  • nuclear fusion reactors

 The sector comprises over 1 900 staff: 1 680 examiners and 180 formalities officers working in Munich, The Hague and Berlin.

We are not only at the forefront of exciting technical developments but also at the centre of the EPO's procedural practice relating to software (computer-implemented inventions – CII) and its application to the new generation of "super-software", such as AI. Here we have a global role to play by ensuring that we maintain a stable, predictable approach to CII, despite the rapid evolution of the field. In this respect we actively use our expertise in every way for the benefit of our stakeholders.

We have vacancies in the following technical fields:

- ICT: Artificial intelligence ¦ Computer ¦ Electro ¦ Physics ¦ Telecom

Working as a patent examiner in our sector is a constant challenge and requires:

  • a passion for complex technology
  • an ability to learn
  • an aptitude for high performance, to deliver the best-quality products efficiently

 The speed of development in ICT demands a great deal of flexibility and the ability to adapt to new technologies.

With the advent of Industry 4.0 and the digitisation of almost every aspect of human life, you will have the opportunity to see the latest technology first-hand, support innovation and make decisions that will impact thousands of people – including you. A typical examiner in our sector should be open to learning about and dealing with patent applications spanning the range from autonomous, electric vehicles to AI and cloud computing.

We hope that you will consider joining our team, and that you find the work of a patent examiner in our sector both interesting and challenging.