WIPO and CERN Sign Cooperation Agreement

“CERN’s ground-breaking research in the field of particle physics is a fertile seedbed for innovation and technological development. This makes WIPO a natural ally in the mutual endeavor to facilitate technology transfer and to support enhanced and broad access to scientific and technological information,” Mr. Gurry said. “This agreement promises to be of mutual benefit to the stakeholders of our respective organizations,” he added. 

 

"Basic science is the driving force for innovation, without it there is no science to apply," said CERN Director General Rolf Heuer. "It is therefore vital for organizations like CERN to ensure that their knowledge and technologies find fertile ground for development. WIPO has precisely that expertise, making this partnership a perfect match. The agreement signed today will stimulate CERN and WIPO to explore joint ventures that may also involve other international organizations."

 

The cooperation agreement, which is to be ratified by the WIPO Coordination Committee, focuses on four main areas, namely, capacity building, awareness raising and knowledge sharing; transfer of technology and know-how; cooperation in the area of technological, scientific and patent information and options for alternative dispute resolution for intellectual property- related matters.