Patricia Covarrubia

Dr. Patricia Covarrubia is a Reader in Law at the University of Buckingham and an IP consultant at the Latin America IPR SME Helpdesk (EU-funded). She holds degrees from Universidad Católica (Venezuela), University of Southampton (LLM), and Brunel University London (PhD in Intellectual Property). Her research focuses on Geographical Indications, traditional knowledge protection, compulsory licenses, and Special Learning Difficulties in higher education assessments.

Education:

• Abogado, Universidad Católica (Venezuela)
• LLM in European Law, University of Southampton
• PhD in Intellectual Property, Brunel University London

Research Interests:

• Geographical Indications (GIs) and their cultural, economic, and legal dimensions
• Protection of traditional knowledge and indigenous crafts
• Compulsory licensing in pharmaceutical industries
• Intellectual Property’s role in fashion and design
• Advocacy for inclusive assessments in Higher Education for students with SpLD

Publications highlight her work on South American IP frameworks, cultural heritage safeguarding, and the intersection of AI and IP law. Her IPTango blog, recognized globally, disseminates IP insights focused on Latin America. Key achievements include a 2020 research grant for her book on transboundary heritage and a 2018 WIPO scholarship for IP asset management training.

Grants/Awards:

• Research Grant for Transboundary Heritage Book (2020)
• WIPO Scholarship (2018)
• IPTango Blog Recognitions (BananaIP & BuzzFeed)
• Member of CIRAD/FAO Committee (2022)

Advising/Training: Leads workshops for SMEs on IP strategies, chairs international conferences, and delivers webinars on IP challenges in Latin America. Active in advocating for inclusive pedagogical practices in Higher Education.

Labs/Teams: Coordinates the IPTango blog platform and collaborates with the Latin America IPR SME Helpdesk, contributing to EU-funded resources for SMEs.