The opportunity:
We’re looking for a talented and inquisitive Biochemistry trainee Patent Attorney to join the firm’s Life Sciences & Chemistry practice group. Our Life Sciences & Chemistry group is one of the largest in Europe, with a depth of expertise and experience across the chemical, biochemical and pharmaceutical industries, as well as in academic research.
We work with a range of clients all over the world – from entrepreneurs, biotechnology and genetic research companies, pharmaceutical businesses and horticulturalists developing new plant varieties to medical device companies, veterinary supply organisations and chemical companies working in areas as diverse as fuel cells, liquid crystals and cosmetics. We also act for NHS Trusts, research departments and technology transfer companies of many British universities and research institutes.
Candidate profile:
The ideal candidate will have a strong first class or upper second class degree (actual or predicted). Candidates with a Biochemistry focus will be at a distinct advantage, but we would also accept applications from those with a Genetics or Biological Sciences background.
The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate first-rate written and verbal communication skills, but most importantly we are looking for a genuine passion for technology that goes well beyond the merely academic.
You will have the ability to grasp new technical concepts, and you should feel confident communicating effectively with clients and staff of all levels.
Training:
We give our trainees real responsibility early on, and you should expect to be making a significant contribution to client work within the first year.
We have a well-deserved reputation for supporting our employees through the CPA and EPA qualification process along with extensive personal development opportunities.
Qualification as a Chartered UK & European Patent Attorney involves passing several sets of examinations. Withers & Rogers provides a comprehensive package of support for trainees sitting exams. We will pay for you to attend courses, lectures and tutorials which are organised by the Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys. In addition to this, we have our own in-house tutorial system which is aimed at preparing trainees for both the UK and European qualifying exams.
The main focus of training, however, is exposure to a great variety of work on actual live cases under the supervision of a qualified attorney. Each trainee at Withers & Rogers is assigned to a qualified attorney responsible for their progression to full qualification as a UK and European Patent Attorney. All of our qualified attorneys devote considerable time to developing trainees and this is the best way for you to develop the skills you need to pass the professional exams, and also for you to absorb the culture and working practices that have contributed to the success of our firm.
We offer a fantastic package of employee benefits in addition to a competitive salary including season ticket loan, holiday buy/sell scheme, cycle to work scheme, a generous sabbatical policy, and more.
The firm:
Withers & Rogers is one of the leading intellectual property (IP) law firms in the UK and Europe, specialising in the protection and enforcement of a wide range of IP rights. These include patent protection for inventions, trade mark registration for brands and design rights for products. With our support, enterprising businesses can bring their ideas to market and maximise the commercial value in their IP.
Around 170 staff and more than 60 specialist experts work in our offices in London, Bristol, Leamington Spa, Sheffield and Munich. Their focus is on building strong partnerships with clients – visiting them regularly, getting to know their business, seeking to understand how best to protect the fruits of their developments and how to ensure that IP protection genuinely adds value to their organisation.
It’s an inventive and inspiring environment that is as diverse as it is intellectually challenging. This is a place for ambitious and curious people who are passionate about the new. About making today’s pioneering inventions tomorrow’s life-changing reality.