What attracted you to the profession?

During the funding application for my Masters research project, we were asked to consider how the intellectual property for the work would be handled. At the time I did not think much of the question, but I soon found myself reflecting and wanting to find out more about the topic. I quickly realised that the profession seemed very attractive to me, allowing me to stay up to date with cutting-edge scientific developments whilst avoiding spending all of my time in the lab.

The role of a patent attorney is somewhat unique in that it requires not only a high-level scientific understanding, but also an in depth understanding of patent law along with a bit of a pedantic nature. The work is varied, interesting, and constantly evolving – showing me that you don’t need to stay in academia to be perpetually learning new things.

How did you get your job at Abel + Imray?

I applied for several positions, including my current role at Abel + Imray. Most first stage applications require a CV, cover letter, and answers to certain technical and/or experience-based questions. The second stage of the process is usually a video call interview or an assessment centre (usually in the form of a half-day session comprising a series of interviews and written assessments) shortly after applying. This is then usually followed by an in-person interview where a final decision and offers will be made.

Abel + Imray held a video call interview followed by an in-person final interview in which I was asked a wide range of questions.

What does the role involve?

At Abel + Imray, my workload generally includes drafting patent specifications, responding to examination reports, conducting freedom to operate or patentability searches, and all manner of other patent prosecution. There is a great deal of documents to be read, so if you’re not into reading, I would think hard about whether this profession is the one for you.

As trainees at Abel + Imray, we are exposed to clients and all kinds of work from day one in order for us to experience the whole spectrum of patent attorney work from the very beginning. This is done as Abel+ Imray places a large focus on training and supporting the trainees.

Do you have any advice for anyone wanting to enter the profession?

Don’t be put off by the qualification process! There are lots of exams and it can take a long time, but it is a rewarding process which will be unlike what most of you have done before. As patent attorneys come from a scientific background, it can be a little jarring when you start to study and learn the law (there are wayyyyy less numbers and equations). However, the result is finding new ways to learn and studying topics which are completely different from what you’ve spent the last several years doing at university. Whilst it is difficult, you should try to see it as an adventure and a chance to try something new, as opposed to a chore or a means to an end.