Senior Intellectual Property (IP) Expert
Location: Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
Position Type: Part-time, Fixed Term
Start Date: June 2025 (flexible)
Join a Groundbreaking Horizon Europe Project!
The Hydrogen Centre of Excellence (CoE) at Trakia University (TrU) in Stara Zagora—developed under the Horizon Europe-funded H2Start project—is seeking a Senior Intellectual Property (IP) Expert to lead innovation protection and strategy efforts.
About the Role
We are looking for a highly experienced IP professional to oversee all aspects of the innovation lifecycle—from identifying new inventions to commercialising mature patent portfolios. The successful candidate will shape global IP strategy, draft and prosecute patent claims, manage risks, and lead initiatives in technology transfer and IP commercialisation within a deep-tech research environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Identify protectable inventions and draft robust, globally enforceable patent claims.
- Protect legacy innovations by securing and maintaining comprehensive coverage for existing IP assets.
- Manage and strategically align a global patent portfolio with R&D and commercial goals.
- Conduct freedom-to-operate (FTO) analyses and advise on risk mitigation and design-around strategies.
- Lead enforcement, opposition, litigation, and licensing activities across multiple jurisdictions.
- Support the H2Start CoE's technology transfer strategy, including advising on spin-offs, joint ventures, and start-up initiatives.
- Draft and review agreements related to licensing, R&D, commercialisation, contract research, and IP services.
- Assist with IP due diligence and provide input for fundraising, IPOs, and M&A processes.
Minimum Requirements
- Demonstrated experience in preparing and filing patent applications globally, particularly in: Renewable energy technologies; Solar panel systems; Energy storage and conversion technologies.
- Broad expertise in providing consultancy and legal representation for invention protection across major technical fields.
- Substantial international experience in both commercial and private patent law, including patent enforcement and litigation in the EU, US, UK, and other jurisdictions.
- Proven capability in managing foreign patent registrations and navigating international compliance.
- Experience representing clients in global patent disputes, including enforcement and defense of industrial property rights.
- Solid background in handling appeal proceedings before the European Patent Office (EPO).
Preferred Qualifications
- Qualification as a European or US Patent Attorney.
- Demonstrated success in spinning out deep-tech ventures or negotiating university–industry licensing agreements.
- Fluency in English.
- Strong communication and stakeholder-management skills, with the ability to present to board-level audiences.
What We Offer
- A leadership role shaping corporate innovation and IP strategy.
- Opportunity to work at the crossroads of cutting-edge science and commercial impact.
- Competitive compensation, performance-based bonuses, and potential for equity participation.
- A dynamic, international, and mission-driven work environment.
- Direct involvement in the preparation and filing of national and international patents.
- Professional development and career growth opportunities.
Why Work in Stara Zagora?
Stara Zagora is a city in transition—from a coal-powered energy hub to a clean energy leader. The transformation is driven by renewable energy and large-scale hydrogen initiatives, anchored by the ZAHYR Hydrogen Valley, a Horizon Europe-funded project. By joining H2Start, you’ll be at the forefront of this green transition in a region offering both impact and opportunity and supporting the development of innovations.
Salary & Benefits
- Annual salary: Approximately €48,000 (€4,000/month including employer costs)
- Work model: Part-time, fixed-term, with flexible working conditions
- Team: Join a motivated and international group of professionals
- Location: Based in Stara Zagora, with online/remote collaboration possible
How to Apply
Please send your EU-format CV and Motivation Letter by May 18, 2025 to [email protected], with the subject line: “Application for IP”.
Application Process
- All applications will be treated with strict confidentiality.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- Interviews will be conducted online—no physical presence required.
We look forward to receiving your application and welcoming you to the team!
