Moderator: Elisabeth Opie

October 28, 2022

Elisabeth Opie opened a boutique law firm focusing on international technology in Munich, Germany, in 2014. With over 20 years’ international experience in innovation ecosystems, she specialises in dealing with technology across various sectors. Practice areas cover international trade law, technology transfer and commercialisation (including structuring and negotiation strategies), competition law and dispute resolution. Standardised technology is a particular focus. Ms Opie is registered with the Rechtsanwaltskammer München and practises German, English and Australian law.

Securing the Future of the U.S. Biopharmaceutical Industry: The Most-Favored-Nation Paradox

February 5, 2026

By Sujai Shivakumar and Anne Pritchett The Trump administration is pursuing lowering prescription drug costs primarily to end what it describes as “global freeloading” and to ensure U.S. patients pay prices comparable to those in other developed nations. The administration argues that while the United States represents less than 5 percent

Universities, Patents, and the Future of U.S. Competitiveness

December 15, 2025

By Shruti Sharma and Chris Borges Universities are among the most powerful engines of U.S. innovation, transforming federal research investments into scientific discoveries that underpin economic growth, technological leadership, and national security. Current law, via the Bayh-Dole Act, allows universities to patent inventions and license them to private companies, with royalties

How Counterfeit Drugs Threaten U.S. Health and Innovation

November 19, 2025

By Anne Pritchett According to the Department of Homeland Security, counterfeit drugs “threaten national security and public safety directly when introduced into government and critical infrastructure supply chains, and indirectly if used to generate revenue for transnational criminal organizations.” Furthermore, counterfeit drugs harm pharmaceutical innovation by eroding profitability and investor