After applying through IP Careers, I was invited to the firm’s London office to interview for the position of Trainee Patent Attorney at Maucher Jenkins. The single interview was in two stages: a short technical exam, followed by a stimulating interview with the hiring partner. We discussed my exam answers, focussing on the questions that I found most challenging, as well as talking about my background and knowledge of intellectual property. This was a good opportunity to demonstrate my analytical and problem-solving abilities and get to know the hiring partner (and firm) better.

My career path to date

After graduating from University, the first year of my career was focused on learning the lay of the land with respect to patents. I then began my training to become an associate starting with a PGCert in Intellectual Property Law at Queen Mary University of London, fully funded by the firm. I enjoyed the social atmosphere (even through covid!). I am now studying towards the UK and European final exams.

Day/week in the life of…

The content of my work varies a lot. The main part of my workload relates to communications technology, but I’ve worked on a range of technologies including medical science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and commercial appliances.

As a Trainee, I normally review cases and prepare letters to the EPO or UKIPO for prosecution. These documents are reviewed and discussed by a partner or associate followed by a one-on-one discussion to finalise the letters. This is mainly individual work and so provides good opportunities to find a comfortable rhythm to work at and demonstrate your understanding of the matter. I also have regular opportunities to meet/talk to clients.

The partners and associates are all friendly and approachable, as well as the support staff. My workload is very manageable and steadily increases as I gain confidence and experience.

Q&A

I discovered the world of intellectual property while at University. After doing some research and attending an open day, I knew this was the career path for me.

A huge advantage of being a Trainee is that I draw from almost every aspect of my training and education.

Some of the most important skills for a trainee are: being comfortable with individual and team-based work; receiving feedback and adapting from it; strong communication skills; attention to detail.

My training is made up of self-study and regular in-house tutorials as well as daily one-on-one supervision. The partners and associates have a real and genuine interest in training me and making me feel valued.