A brief summary of your background

I joined Marks & Clerk as a trainee patent attorney in the biotechnology team in October 2021, immediately after completing my PhD. I became dual-qualified as a UK and European patent attorney in July 2025.

Explain why you decided to pursue a career in this profession.

Although I enjoyed my PhD, I found laboratory research slow and limited in the breadth of science I could engage with. I began exploring careers outside academia and was drawn to the patent profession because it offers fast-paced, intellectually challenging work while keeping me closely connected to cutting-edge scientific innovation.

Explain what your current role involves.

I work primarily within the biotechnology sector, handling a wide range of subject matter including biologics (such as antibodies, antibody-drug conjugates, and therapeutic proteins), vaccines, and diagnostic technologies. My day-to-day role is primarily focussed on patent drafting and patent prosecution; guiding applications through examination and toward grant in the UK, Europe, and internationally. Alongside this, I provide strategic advice to clients on patentability, filing strategies, and broader IP considerations to help them protect and commercialise their innovations effectively. At Marks & Clerk, our clients range from individual inventors and university spin outs to large multinational pharmaceutical companies, meaning their IP needs and commercial objectives vary significantly. This diversity of clients and technologies ensures that the work is both varied and intellectually rewarding.

Any advice

Particularly in the life sciences, the application process for trainee roles can be extremely competitive. Firstly, do not be disheartened – you would be hard pressed to find a trainee who did not send out quite a few applications. Secondly, the use of language is very important in the patent profession. Therefore, be sure to proofread your CV and covering letter several times, and ask someone else to triple check them before applying.