Why did you choose a job in this profession?
While studying chemistry at university, I had the opportunity to take a law course as an additional module for my degree. This course explored the relationship between science and the law, which I found fascinating and I particularly enjoyed the section about intellectual property law. After exploring some careers in science and law, I decided that I wanted to be a Patent Attorney, as it would allow me to use my degree while working in law. The theory side of my degree was my favourite part and being a Patent Attorney allows me to use that part of my degree every day to understand new technology.
What are your main duties?
One of the great things about working at GJE is the variety of work that I am given. This means that I don’t spend too long doing just one thing and have gained experience in lots of different areas, in varying jurisdictions. Some of the things I do include patent drafting, patent prosecution, meeting with clients, as well as helping with opposition work. At GJE there is also an opportunity to get involved with things outside of patents, such as the Diversity and Inclusion group which I am a part of.
What skills are useful in this profession?
An ability to pick up new concepts quickly is always helpful, as Patent Attorneys work in lots of different technical fields. For example, while synthetic and organic chemistry was my preferred topic at university, I now work in a range of areas from batteries to pharmaceuticals, to detergents and beyond. Being able to adapt and learn quickly is a useful skill to have, especially as the technology might be something that you have never seen before! Additionally, much of the work of a Patent Attorney requires you to be precise and meticulous, and so the profession suits someone who is detail-oriented.
What does the training /qualification route look like?
At GJE, Trainee Patent Attorneys start their training from day one with a comprehensive induction programme. Since starting, I have received lots of internal training in the form of regular “claim drafting” tutorials, know-how sessions as well as day-to-day training on real cases. About a year and a half into the profession, trainees will study towards their Postgraduate Certificate in Intellectual Property. After this, they will start studying towards the European and UK qualifying exams. The UK exams will be sat three or four years after training begins. One change for trainees who start from now on is that the European Qualifying Exams will look different. Candidates now have the opportunity to spread the exam load out more by taking the foundation “F” paper one year into training, the “M1” and “M2” papers 2 years in, and the “M3” and “M4” papers three years in. GJE help trainees throughout their exams with their own programme of exam tutorials and support.
