Master thesis - Patent country selection at Volvo Group

Job description

Transport is at the core of modern society. Imagine using your expertise to shape sustainable transport and infrastructure solutions for the future? If you seek to make a difference on a global scale, working with next-gen technologies and the sharpest collaborative teams, then we could be a perfect match. 

About the thesis work

The truck, marine and construction equipment industries are undergoing a significant technology transformation in the areas of electrification, automation and connectivity.  As a premium brand, Volvo Group (‘Volvo’) is investing heavily in research and development to secure a leading position in these emerging areas.

To protect this new technology, Volvo has significantly expanded its patent filings by almost 200 % in the last five years. This strategic move ensures that Volvo's investments are safeguarded, but it also leads to higher spending on patent filings.

Given the substantial growth in patent filings, managing the associated costs has become crucial. A key cost driver in patenting an invention is the selection of countries for filing. At the same time, the country selection decision is influenced by important business factors such as market relevance for Volvo, competitor activity, enforceability, aftermarket sales, invention value, and infringement detectability. Therefore, a refined approach is needed to balance cost considerations with achieving Volvo’s business objectives through its patent portfolio.

The Masters thesis work will be performed at Volvo Group Trucks Technology (Gothenburg).

Objectives

·  Identify opportunities to optimize Volvo’s patent filing strategy by evaluating the choices and resulting costs of protecting in different countries and regions.
·  Provide a policy and/or approach for executing on suggested improvements to patent country selection decisions, considering both near- and long-term scenarios in-line with Volvo Group’s strategy.

Volvo Group

Volvo Group is a leading global manufacturer of trucks, buses, construction equipment, and marine and industrial engines. Founded in 1927 and headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden, the company is known for its commitment to quality, safety, and environmental care serving customers in over 190 markets worldwide.

Applying to this master thesis project offers you the opportunity to work closely with Volvo Group’s IP department (‘VGIP’) and participate as part of the team. You will form an integral part of the country selection project consisting of VGIP experts in patent filing, portfolio management, enforcement and IP intelligence. You are furthermore expected to gather information from other relevant parts of the organization.

Contact information

Erik Ashjari Hansson
Global Head IP Strategy and Portfolio – Engine & Fuel Cell Systems
+46 739 02 74 14

erik.ashjari.hansson@volvo.com

 

Last application date is 27th of November. 

We value your data privacy and therefore do not accept applications via mail. 

 

Who we are and what we believe in 
Our focus on Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity allows each of us the opportunity to bring our full authentic self to work and thrive by providing a safe and supportive environment, free of harassment and discrimination. 

 

Applying to this job offers you the opportunity to join Volvo Group. Every day, across the globe, our trucks, buses, engines, construction equipment, financial services, and solutions make modern life possible. We are almost 100,000 people empowered to shape the future landscape of efficient, safe and sustainable transport solutions. Fulfilling our mission creates countless career opportunities for talents with sharp minds and passion across the group’s leading brands and entities. 

 

Group Trucks Technology are seeking talents to help design sustainable transportation solutions for the future. As part of our team, you’ll help us by engineering exciting next-gen technologies and contribute to projects that determine new, sustainable solutions. Bring your love of developing systems, working collaboratively, and your advanced skills to a place where you can make an impact. Join our design shift that leaves society in good shape for the next generation.

Job Category:  Legal, Compliance & Audit

Organization:  Group Trucks Technology

Travel Required:  No Travel Required

Requisition ID:  15604