Following completion of my PhD, I worked as an R&D tax consultant for 3 years at a London-based accounting and management firm that catered specifically to Start Ups and SMEs. I joined Sagittarius IP as a trainee in 2023 and am working towards dual qualification as a UK and European Patent Attorney.

Why did you choose a job in this profession?

I had been interested in eventually applying my broad scientific curiosity to a career outside the laboratory during my time as an undergraduate. This interest was deepened following a year in industry during my undergraduate degree and subsequent completion of a PhD, which exposed me to patents and the commercial exploitation of research.

Although the three years spent as an R&D tax consultant gave me valuable exposure to the world of business and technology innovation, the attraction of a highly challenging yet rewarding career as a Patent Attorney remained. One of the things that particularly drew me to Sagittarius IP was its specialism in biotechnology, chemistry and pharmaceutical patents and its portfolio of innovative, fast-growing clients.

What skills are useful in this profession?

Whilst strong technical skills are a must, it is arguably the transferable or “soft” skills, such as strong analytical skills, effective written and oral communication, attention to detail, flexibility, and an ability to take on board feedback, that are essential to succeeding as a trainee. Uniquely, Patent Attorneys work at the interface of technology, business, and law. Therefore, appreciation of the broader commercial and business context in which the patent system functions is also needed to provide the best support and advice. Furthermore, a Patent Attorney must possess strong time management and communication skills to effectively manage a portfolio of clients and projects, each of which may have different needs and demands.

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

As a small profession where competition for entry-level places is fierce, it is vital that you can demonstrate a sincere interest in, and understanding of, what the role demands and the firm to which you are applying. Moreover, it is very common that a role will not be secured at the first time of asking, so persistence and proactivity are needed if you believe this is the career for you.

Qualifying as a Patent Attorney is notoriously challenging and requires a real commitment over several years. It is therefore important that you identify firms that you think will be the right fit for you. Sagittarius IP provides excellent support with exam preparation, offering weekly tutorials and sending trainees on external courses, as well as having attorneys that are actively involved with both the UK and European examinations. This gives trainees the best possible chance at succeeding.