What attracted you to your role?

I thoroughly enjoyed my chemistry degree and knew I wanted to pursue a career in which I could continue to apply and expand my technical knowledge. I have also always been curious about how things work and take a strong interest in new scientific and technological advancements. The profession offered the opportunity to pursue these interests daily while working at the interface of science, law, and business. Additionally, the role involves learning law as an entirely new discipline and developing skills that scientists do not often use, such as structured arguments and clear, persuasive writing, which I found particularly appealing.

What was the application process like – any advice?

The application process involved submitting a CV and cover letter, followed by two interviews with partners at the firm.

It is a competitive profession to enter, so it is important to think carefully about how you can distinguish yourself. Demonstrating genuine interest in the firm is key, for example, knowing the types of technologies it works on, which can often be explored through publicly available patent databases such as those provided by the European Patent Office website. Relevant work experience, academic projects, or extracurricular activities can also help strengthen an application.

I would also encourage applicants to include interests outside of academia or work. Many firms are looking for well-rounded individuals, and hobbies such as sport, volunteering, or creative pursuits can say a great deal about your character and skill set.

Interviews often assess your ability to understand a new invention quickly and communicate your understanding clearly. Practising this skill, for example, by describing how everyday objects work, can be very helpful.

What are your main duties?

I joined Beck Greener just under a year ago and have primarily been involved in patent prosecution work. This has included responding to examination reports by assessing objections to patentability, analysing prior art, and discussing potential approaches with my supervising partner. I also assist in drafting letters to clients explaining the issues their applications face and proposing approaches to overcome them, as well as preparing responses to the European Patent Office.

What skills are useful in the profession?

Strong organisation and time-management skills are essential. The role involves being responsible for managing a caseload of applications, tracking deadlines, and prioritising tasks effectively in what is a highly deadline-driven profession.

Communication skills, both written and verbal, are equally important. Much of the role involves conveying complex technical information to examiners and clients in a clear, concise manner. A Patent Attorney acts as a bridge between the technical details of an invention and the client’s commercial objectives, so the ability to explain matters precisely and in a clear way is crucial.

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

I would recommend gathering as much information on firms as possible in order to identify those that align with your values and interests. This could involve attending open days, applying for internships, and reaching out to trainees using firm websites or LinkedIn. Speaking directly with trainees provides valuable insight into firm culture and day-to-day work, enabling you to make a well-informed choice when applying to firms.

I am always happy to speak with anyone interested in the profession and to share my experience at Beck Greener.