Patents and Innovation: Sorbonne University ranks among Europe’s top public research institutions
27-Oct-2026
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Source : Sorbornne University
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Visits : 95
PARIS - Ranked 11th in Europe, Sorbonne University is one of Europe’s highest-ranked public research institutions in terms of 2025 patent applications, alongside Université Paris Cité (9th). The European Patent Office highlights the strong drive for interdisciplinary innovation at both universities, according to the official website of the University.
These results showcase the performance of French public research more generally. Three national organizations feature among the top four in Europe: the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS), in 1st place with 729 patent applications; the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), in 3rd place with 528 applications, and the French National Institute of Health and Medical Research (Inserm), in 4th place with 432 applications.
Technology transfer: a key challenge for European research
Aside from these results, the EPO has published the first benchmark study dedicated to technology transfer on a European level. Carried out in collaboration with ASTP, the European association for knowledge transfer professionals, and Fraunhofer ISI, it cross-references patent data with the results of a survey of 809 technology transfer offices (TTOs) responsible for supporting the protection and commercialization of scientific inventions.
The study highlights the role of universities and public research organizations in European innovation. Patents involving universities account for around 9% of European patents, a proportion which is similar to that of the United States.
Public research also plays an important role in several technological sectors. In 2025, public research institutions were responsible for around 34% of European patent applications in biotechnology, 29% in quantum technology and 26% in pharmaceuticals.
France ranks second in Europe for spin-offs
France also stands out for the number of companies emerging from research. With 633 spin-offs recorded, it ranks second in Europe, following the United Kingdom.
Of these companies, 64.5% are in the seed stage, a crucial phase for moving from a laboratory prototype to a marketable product and securing initial funding. Others have reached the acceleration stage (22.4% ) or advanced maturity (4.1%), whilst 9% have been acquired by large corporate groups.
Finally, the study highlights the importance of strengthening technology transfer in Europe in order to facilitate the transition from scientific discoveries to practical applications. For the European Patent Office, this involves improving access to funding, strengthening links between research, businesses and investors, and developing collaborations across Europe.