The patent attorney profession combines law with a technical understanding of the basic science underlying new inventions. I work with a range of clients, from start-ups to universities to global corporations, to secure patent protection in various jurisdictions worldwide for the inventions that they have created. I specialise in the pharmaceutical and chemical fields, but the profession is open to anyone with an undergraduate degree in science, from mechanical engineering or electronics right through to biotechnology or plant science.

My job allows me to work in a commercially focussed role whilst still having a strong connection to basic science. I particularly enjoy the variety of work that the profession offers – no two days are the same! One day, I might be drafting a new patent application on one of my clients’ latest developments, another I may be preparing for a contentious hearing at the European Patent Office (where one of my clients is in dispute with a third party over the validity of a recently-granted patent), and on another I may be analysing whether one of my clients has “freedom to operate” (make or sell a product without infringing a third party’s patent rights). The profession also offers great opportunities for career development. Even at a junior level, it is common for attorneys to take on significant responsibility and to work on very interesting projects. Meanwhile, as a partner with around ten years’ experience in the profession, I still regularly encounter new challenges and opportunities to learn.

If you are interested in becoming a patent attorney, my advice would be to find out as much about the profession as you can. Attend careers fairs and sign up for the informative open days that are offered by some firms (ourselves included!) There are also very limited opportunities for internships and work experience. Beyond that, however, just give it a go and apply! Most firms have structured graduate recruitment schemes, but several will welcome prospective applications. The biggest challenge to be aware of when joining the profession is that the qualifying exams are tough and require a lot of hard work; however, the rewards that the profession offers are worth it.

The selection process usually involves a combination of submitting written work, one or more technical interviews and an HR interview. The technical interviews are actually quite fun – I think you really know whether the profession will suit you or not after you’ve experienced one. A typical task might be to describe the key features of a simple object, or to briefly summarise a research project you’ve done in terms someone with a basic undergraduate knowledge of your subject could understand.