The intellectual property (IP) system underpins innovation in nearly every aspect of modern life, from education and food security to climate action and public health. As the new Canada Research Chair in Innovation and Intellectual Property Law, Professor Jeremy de Beer will lead research that seeks to improve global IP frameworks—ensuring they not only foster innovation but also distribute its benefits equitably, both within Canada and around the world.
A Full Professor in the Faculty of Law, Common Law Section, and a Faculty Member of the Centre for Law, Technology and Society, Professor de Beer is an expert advisor whose work transcends law, business, political science, and public policy. His research has played a pivotal role in shaping global discussions on open access to education, equitable access to medicine, food security, and sustainable technology innovation.
Professor de Beer’s work is deeply global in scope. He has collaborated with international organizations such as the United Nations, African Union, and European Commission, while also advising governments in Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America. In Canada, he has served as legal counsel in 15 Supreme Court cases and frequently advises policymakers. His research not only informs legislation and court decisions but also contributes to shaping international trade and development policies.
The new Canada Research Chair in Innovation and Intellectual Property Law will tackle a common denominator: the fact that exclusive intellectual property rights are widely used in efforts to promote inclusive technology innovation for human development. The integrated research program applies fresh conceptual insights to an array of diverse but interconnected global challenges. It transcends not only disciplinary boundaries but also national borders, flipping conventional narratives of development. Through mutually beneficial partnerships, robust evidence-gathering methods, and imaginative knowledge translation strategies, this CRC is committed to improving Canada and the world’s intellectual property system.
This new Canada Research Chair will be hosted at and supported by the University of Ottawa Centre for Law, Technology and Society, Canada’s leading research hub on technology law, ethics, and policy. Home to five other Canada Research Chairs and three University Research Chairs, the Centre will provide Professor de Beer with an established network of interdisciplinary expertise and policy engagement opportunities.
The Canada Research Chairs Program invests to attract and retain some of the world’s most accomplished and promising minds. Chairholders aim to achieve research excellence in engineering and the natural sciences, health sciences, humanities, and social sciences.
Congratulations to Professor de Beer!