As Bulgaria strengthens its innovation ecosystem, intellectual property (IP) has become a cornerstone for universities, research institutes, and technology-driven companies. The Master’s Program in Intellectual Property and Technological Transfer (IPTT) at Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski” prepares the next generation of experts who can bridge innovation and business through strategic IP management.

Offered in English by the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, the program provides an interdisciplinary foundation combining economics, law, and innovation management. Students learn how to translate research results into marketable products, structure licensing and technology transfer agreements, and align IP strategy with corporate goals.

A Bridge Between Academia and Practice

The IPTT program is supported by European institutions such as CEIPI (University of Strasbourg), the European Patent Office (EPO), and the EUIPO. It connects academic learning with real-world applications, enabling graduates to thrive in technology transfer offices, R&D departments, patent law firms, and innovation agencies.

In October 2025, the course started with the presentation on “IP Strategy” by Prof. Dr. Alexander J. Wurzer (CEIPI Strasbourg). The lecture sessions demonstrated how IP strategy functions as a core management discipline, linking IP to tangible business outcomes.

Four Subject Matter Experts: Global Best Practices in IP Strategy

The IP Strategy lectures highlighted four Subject Matter Experts from the IPBA Connect network, each illustrating how IP management creates value along the innovation chain:

  1. Per Wendin – Operational IP Portfolio Management
    Operational IP management ensures that every IP asset contributes to business success. Per Wendin shows how systematic IP portfolio monitoring and management transform IP from a cost factor into a growth driver, especially in fast-paced industries.
    Learn more about Operational IP Portfolio Management
  2. Malgorzata Zyla – Design Rights and Visual Innovation
    Design rights play a vital role in product differentiation. Malgorzata Zyla shows how protecting visual appearance not only prevents imitation but also strengthens brand identity and supports licensing-based business models. Her approach exemplifies design rights as a strategic IP instrument.
    Discover her approach to Design Rights
  3. Axel Oldekop – Litigation of Trade Secrets
    Trade secrets safeguard a company’s invisible competitive edge. Axel Oldekop demonstrates how well-managed trade secret protection and litigation defend innovation in practice. His approach illustrates that litigation is part of strategic IP enforcement, ensuring that confidential know-how remains an economic asset.
    Explore his insights on Trade Secret litigation
  4. Christian Heubeck – Freedom to Operate in the Life Sciences
    In industries like biotechnology, the success of innovation depends on a clear understanding of the surrounding patent landscape. Christian Heubeck highlights how Freedom to Operate (FTO) analyses reduce commercial risk, guide R&D investment, and accelerate go-to-market decisions. His best-practice framework shows how systematic IP monitoring and transparency create strategic freedom for innovation.
    Read more about Freedom to Operate in the Life Sciences

Learn More

For full details on the Master’s Program in Intellectual Property and Technological Transfer (IPTT), visit the Sofia University website: Master in Intellectual Property and Technological Transfer (IPTT)

The 2025/26 edition continues to build a bridge between innovation, IP, and value creation, empowering the next generation of IP and innovation experts to turn ideas into business success.