At RWTH Innovation, Roberta Caterino supports researchers in physics, materials science, and electrical engineering on their journey from lab to society. From early conversations about inventions to crafting IP strategies, managing patents, and connecting with partners, she helps bring groundbreaking ideas to life.
What is your role as an Innovation Manager – and how do you support researchers? At RWTH Innovation, I support researchers in physics, materials science, and electrical engineering as they navigate the journey from lab to the society.
What are the typical steps you guide researchers through when they come to you with a new invention? We typically start with a conversation about the invention, project or idea, then tailor a strategy to protect and position it. This can include patent research, IP landscape analysis, protection planning, patent portfolio management, licensing negotiations, and more. If needed, I also connect researchers with relevant partners within and beyond RWTH.
Why is it important to talk about IP early in the research process? Starting early helps avoid redundant development efforts, and more importantly, prevents missing the opportunity to protect valuable intellectual property.
Can you share an example of IP that had real-world impact? Every transferred technology creates impact. Some are more visible ore easy to understand, like medical devices improving patient care. Others, like algorithms or hardware for secure networks, energy infrastructures, neuromorphic computing, or quantum tech, are less tangible but highly transformative.
What’s one thing people often misunderstand about your role? The word “exploitation” can sound like profit at all costs. But technology transfer is about much more: ensuring fair, safe, and sustainable agreements for all parties involved.
What advice would you give to researchers thinking about founding a company? Be bold and believe in your ideas! And take time to explore patent literature and develop a solid IP protection strategy.
When should researchers reach out to you? Anytime they have questions around technology transfer - from copyright and patents to licensing, publication safety, and beyond.
What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you? To unwind, I prefer boxing gloves over a yoga mat! 😃
Fun fact about you?
I'm from Rome, but I only learned to make a proper Carbonara after moving to Germany.
Thanks, Roberta, for taking the time to talk to us today!
