Master thesis within Intellectual Property Strategy at Volvo

Contact Evangelos Bourelos for more information and instructions how to apply at evangelos.bourelos@handels.gu.se

Thesis work – Intellectual Property Strategy for Volvo Group Trucks Operations

The Volvo Group is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of trucks, buses, construction equipment and marine and industrial engines under the leading brands Volvo, Renault Trucks, Mack, UD Trucks, Eicher, SDLG, Terex Trucks, Prevost, Nova Bus, UD Bus, Sunwin Bus and Volvo Penta. Volvo Group Trucks Operations encompasses the production of state-of-the-art products for the truck brands of the Volvo Group, as well as Volvo Group engines and transmissions, through an international world class industrial environment.

With Volvo Group Trucks Operations you will be part of a global and diverse team of highly skilled professionals working with energy, passion and respect for the individual to become the world leader in sustainable transport solutions.

Description of thesis work

Since a few years back Volvo Group has reviewed and updated the group strategy around intellectual property. Each division has been asked to align with the strategy and actively work towards maximizing the value of its own portfolio, guided by the group directives. Volvo Group Trucks Operations has started this journey and now needs to develop its portfolio in relation to the transformation into Industry 4.0. This thesis will focus on developing and proposing a strategy for Group Trucks Operations based on the nature of its current and future activities.

The thesis encompasses two main tasks:

1. Conduct a patent landscape study for one central technology area; analyze the patent landscape from a competitor and supplier network perspective.
    
2. Based on the conclusions drawn from the study and GTO’s internal capabilities technology roadmap, propose an IP strategy for Group Trucks Operations that will secure future success and that are in line with the Volvo Group IP Strategy.
    

The work will be done in close relation with Volvo Group IP and IP business partner at Group Trucks Operations.

Suitable background

The position requires knowledge on how to conduct patent searches, analyze patents and intellectual property and strategy. We believe that you have a general understanding of automotive manufacturing and a genuine interest for technology and strategy. We also believe that you have business oriented reasoning when approaching a problem.

General information

Thesis level

Master

Language

Swedish / English (report to be written in English)

Starting date

January 2019

Number of students

2

Tutors

Thomas Lezama +46 31 3229421, Nicolas Preisig +46 31 3227975