Oliver Balz
About Oliver Balz
Oliver Balz is a Patent Examiner at the European Patent Office in Munich, where he has worked since 2000. He has a background in geophysics, having held positions at TOTAL and Schlumberger Anadrill prior to his current role.
Work at European Patent Office
Oliver Balz has been employed at the European Patent Office (EPO) as a Patent Examiner since 2000. He has accumulated 24 years of experience in this role, working in Munich. His responsibilities include evaluating patent applications and ensuring compliance with patent laws and regulations. His expertise contributes to the EPO's mission of fostering innovation and protecting intellectual property rights across Europe.
Previous Experience in Geophysics
Prior to his current role, Oliver Balz worked as a Research Geophysicist at TOTAL from 1998 to 2000. This position was based in St.-Remy les Chevreuse and lasted for two years. He also served as a Drilling Services Engineer at Schlumberger Anadrill for one year, from 1997 to 1998, in Lafayette, Louisiana. These experiences provided him with a solid foundation in geophysics and drilling technologies.
Education and Expertise
Oliver Balz holds a Master’s Degree in Geophysics from the Technical University Karlsruhe, where he studied from 1989 to 1995. He furthered his education at IFP School, earning another Master’s Degree in Exploration Geophysics from 1995 to 1996. His academic background equips him with a strong understanding of geophysical principles and practices, which he applies in his current role as a Patent Examiner.
Career Timeline
Oliver Balz's career spans several key positions in the field of geophysics and patent examination. He began his professional journey at Schlumberger Anadrill as a Drilling Services Engineer from 1997 to 1998. He then transitioned to TOTAL as a Research Geophysicist from 1998 to 2000. Since 2000, he has been with the European Patent Office, where he continues to work as a Patent Examiner.