Speaker
Description
Erik Engwall is Head of Physics and Algorithms, leading a department of 45 developers within physics, optimization, image analysis and visualization. He holds a PhD in physics from Uppsala University, Sweden. Prior to his current role, he held the role as Chief Physicist, overseeing the development within the areas of dose computation and advanced planning tools for photons, electrons, protons, heavier ions and brachytherapy. He takes an active role in the RayStation steering committee to determine which functionalities to introduce in the clinical RayStation versions. His main areas of interest span from fully automated workflow to novel concepts in radiotherapy, like upright treatments and proton arc therapy.
Summary
The talk will give an overview of intellectual property and patents in the context of radiotherapy research and will address the following questions:
What is intellectual property and what are patents?
What makes an invention patentable?
When should I patent an invention, and when is it better to publish or use other forms of protection?
What are the different alternatives to patenting?
How does the patenting process work?
Who owns an invention, and what should I consider when working with universities, hospitals, or industry?
What should I do if I think I have made a potentially patentable invention?
I will also share personal perspectives on why patents can be important in research and development, illustrated by concrete examples and experiences from the patenting process.