Why did you choose a job in this profession?
After working for five years in academia as a postdoctoral researcher in theoretical physics, I became a bit jaded with the constant relocation and uncertainty in the job role.
I decided it was the right time for me to have a career change, but wanted to work in a profession that is still involved in research, development, and innovation.
When researching possible roles to apply for, I discovered an advert for a trainee patent attorney position at Appleyard Lees (AL). The description piqued my interest, especially as they were looking for physicists.
Having no experience and little understanding of the IP profession upfront, I read around on the subject, finding the “Greenshoots” section of the AL website particularly helpful. From the articles and blogs that I read, the role sounded great; a good blend of applying my skills and expertise as a researcher, but also offering new and exciting opportunities in a neighbouring profession.
I applied for and was offered the position as a trainee patent attorney at the Leeds office. I am now 2 months into the role and enjoying the new challenge. I’m really glad I made the transition!
What was the application process like? Any advice?
The first stage involved putting together a CV with a cover letter motivating your reasons for applying for the job. I then submitted this, along with standard application form via an online portal.
After a few weeks, I received an email from AL inviting me to an initial virtual interview. Ahead of the interview, I was sent a granted patent to review, and was asked to prepare a presentation describing the product: what is inventive about it, what are the technical features, etc. I was given plenty of time to prepare (about a week or so) and put together a brief PowerPoint document to aid my presentation.
At the start of the interview, I was very nervous, but was immediately put at ease by the kind and friendly approach of the team interviewing me. This really helped in enabling me to feel confident about my presentation, which lasted about 10 minutes. The rest of the discussion was informal, and although I wasn’t sure if I’d been successful, it still felt a pleasant experience.
Fortunately, I was successful and was invited to the second stage of the interview process.
This involved doing a day’s work experience in the Leeds office. I was asked to do a couple of tasks: reviewing a patent examination report and identifying a feature in the application that may overcome the objections raised and drafting the claims for another application. I was guided through these and wasn’t expected to know exactly what to do. It’s really a chance for the team at AL, and you, to assess your experience and check that the role is right for you. I was also given the opportunity to have a one-to-one chat with a trainee patent attorney within the firm, which was really helpful in giving me the chance to ask questions without the same nerves I might feel in front of the more senior staff.
As a parting piece of advice for the process, I would say make sure you prepare and read around a bit before the interview (I found the “GreenShoots” section of the AL website particularly helpful), but also, don’t overthink it – just be yourself!
