IP Officer

We are Skytree

Skytree enables a transition to a world with cleaner Air for everyone. We do this by developing and deploying smart technology that captures atmospheric carbon dioxide, enabling its use or storage to combat climate change and aid society and businesses around the world.

Born out of the European Space Agency (ESA), we are a global team of highly talented scientists, engineers and business professionals, supported by an experienced management team. Our working culture is based on a dynamic and smart approach to business with an open and understanding attitude to others and a desire to expand the boundaries of what is possible.

As we enter a new phase of growth, we are looking for an IP Officer to go on this journey with us!

Your role

As IP Officer, you will be responsible for expanding and safeguarding Skytree’s intellectual property portfolio as we scale our direct air capture technology globally. You will develop and execute a clear IP strategy that aligns with our R&D roadmap, our freedom to operate is secured and ensure our innovations are protected.

You will manage the full patent lifecycle, from invention capture and patent drafting to prosecution and portfolio maintenance, while working closely with our scientists, engineers, and leadership team. Through your expertise, you will guide strategic decisions on where and how to protect technology, manage external counsel for international filings, and ensure best practices for IP governance across the organization. As you’ll be our first IP Officer, it means you’ll essentially found this role within the team.

You’ll make an impact by

• Developing and managing the company’s IP strategy in line with business objectives and technology roadmap.

• Managing patent drafting, filing, and prosecution primarily in-house, with external counsel supporting (later-stage) maintenance and international filings.

• Performing freedom-to-operate analyses and patent landscaping to guide R&D and reduce IP risk.

• Leading internal IP capture and evaluation, to identify and document inventions early.

• Maintaining and improving IP governance processes to protect know-how and ensure consistency across the organization.

What we’re looking for

• Experience & Education

  • MSc or PhD in Engineering or Science (e.g. Chemistry, Materials, Mechanical, or Chemical).

  • Qualified Patent Attorney.

  • 3+ years of patent experience.

  • Proven track record in patent drafting, prosecution, and portfolio management.

  • Experienced in freedom-to-operate (FTO) analyses, patent landscaping, and IP governance.

  • Ideally, experience in a similar environment being a hardware deeptech company that’s bringing its technology to the market.

• Skills

  • Strategic mindset to align IP with business and R&D objectives.

  • Strong analytical and drafting skills with attention to detail.

  • Proficient in patent databases and IP management systems.

  • Excellent communicator across technical and commercial teams.

  • Organized, autonomous, and effective in managing multiple priorities.

• Work Approach

  • A self-starter who can work independently while managing multiple projects. Open-minded and collaborative in a diverse, multi-cultural team. 

• Communication

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to create clear technical documentation; professional fluency in English.
    

What you can expect

Apart from working with great colleagues and a competitive package, you can also expect:

• A unique start-up environment offering organic professional and personal growth at one of the most innovative cleantech companies in Amsterdam!

• A diverse (38+ nationalities) and fun team to work with.

• Travel cost reimbursement (choose from an NS business card, lease bike, or 23ct p/km travel allowance).

• Recharge with 25 vacation days, plus a little extra when life throws something special your way.

• Enjoy the flexibility of hybrid work, with the option to work from home once a week.

• A vibrant office close to the Science Park train station (5 minute walk!), as well as close to the highway.

• Access to the Science Park and Amsterdam University cafeterias (and all the great and healthy meal options).

• Enjoy a free lunch every Thursday, with Skytree picking up the bill, and stick around for after-work office drinks.

• Fun activities, organised by our very own Champagne Committee (e.g. a cooking class or Canal Adventures at the heart of the city centre).

• Stay fueled with tasty fruits and snacks - because work should be enjoyable too!

Note: we can offer work permit / visa sponsorship for exceptional candidates. We, however, currently do not offer a relocation package / remuneration in case you would need to move to The Netherlands for this position. Thanks for your understanding.

Questions?

Need some more info, or simply have a question for us? Don’t hesitate to reach out to our Talent Acquisition Specialist Sjoerd Jacobs (sjoerd.jacobs@skytree.tech)!