Organic Electronic Devices

Location: The Hague

Duration of contract:
Five years, renewable (full-time)

Location:

Hybrid based in Germany (Munich/Berlin) or the Netherlands (The Hague)
At the European Patent Office (EPO), we explore breakthrough technologies before they reach the public. As a patent examiner, you'll assess whether inventions meet the criteria for patent protection, and in doing so support innovation that improves lives, drives industries and shapes the future.
We are an inclusive, purpose-driven organisation committed to sustainability, fairness and excellence – diversity is part of our DNA. Whether you come from research, academia or industry, if you're curious, open to learning and looking for a meaningful intellectual challenge you'll find your place at the EPO.

Your role and impact  As a Patent Examiner, you will:
examine patent applications – including technical documentation and drawings – in one of our official languages (English, French or German)
analyse new inventions to evaluate their novelty and inventive step
conduct in-depth research using digital search tools, scientific databases and patent information sources to identify the most relevant prior art
apply legal and procedural frameworks to make clear, high-quality decisions on whether a patent should be granted
communicate your findings clearly and constructively with applicants and other parties
collaborate with international colleagues in a diverse and inclusive environment
maintain high-quality standards with strong attention to detail and scientific rigour
contribute to Europe's innovation ecosystem by ensuring fair and consistent application of the European Patent Convention (EPC) and related legal texts

Your profile  We're looking for expertise in these fields:
Physical aspects of OLED displays, lighting devices and organic photovoltaic devices, e.g., electrodes, charge transport layers, encapsulation, light extraction means and methods for their manufacturing. Details of pixel driving circuits in AMOLED displays.
You will thrive with us if you   have a solid background and relevant expertise in the specified fields, built up during your studies, in projects, and/or as a result of professional experience
enjoy deep technical analysis, reading technical drawings and solving intellectual puzzles
are genuinely curious about technology and enjoy continuously learning about new scientific developments, emerging technologies and patent law
are analytical, detail-oriented and open-minded
are confident using digital technologies and AI-supported tools to analyse information while applying own critical thinking
value both independent work and team collaboration
are comfortable making structured, evidence-based decisions and exercising sound professional judgement
No prior IP (intellectual property) experience? No problem, we provide full training to get you started.
Our minimum requirements for this post   diploma of completed studies at master's level covering one or more technical fields mentioned above
excellent knowledge (at least C1) of one of our official languages (English, French and German) and the ability to understand the other two; alternatively, excellent knowledge (at least C1) of English (in such cases, the willingness to learn the missing languages and to reach level B2 within a set time frame would be required)
work experience in industry would be an advantage
citizenship of one of the member states of the European Patent Organisation
What we offer   competitive salary: €7 076 to €10 164 net/month (depending on location and experience)
30+ days of annual leave + flexible working arrangements
generous remote work policy: work from anywhere in the country of employment; up to 60 days from abroad (EPC states)
family-friendly policies: childcare, education and…