Applying

After submitting a CV and Cover Letter online, I was invited to interview. This consisted of a technical written test followed by a discussion with one of the firm’s partners. My test answers formed the basis of the discussion, and there were additional questions on my educational background and knowledge of the profession. Shortly after the interview, I was offered an internship which was a brilliant opportunity for me to decide if a career as a trainee patent attorney was right for me. Upon completion, I started work as a full-time Trainee Patent Attorney.

Work

I would describe Maucher Jenkins as a very positive place to work. The partners, associates, other trainees and support staff are very friendly and approachable. I have felt supported throughout my entire time here. Furthermore, the partners actively encourage us to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

My workload has been varied and challenging. I mainly work with patents related to software, and I have worked with inventions from a wide variety of disciplines, such as cryptography and automated surgery.

As a Trainee Patent Attorney, I typically prepare draft response letters to the EPO or UKIPO which are then checked by and discussed with a supervisor. Throughout my time here, I have been gradually given more autonomy and responsibility. The constant feeling of progression is one of my favourite aspects of my career.

Skills

I have had to draw on almost every aspect of training and education that I gained at university. Some of the key skills that I would argue are invaluable in my role are:

• The ability to express complex ideas in simple terms
• Workload and time management
• Being able to work independently of supervision
• Written and verbal communication

Support & Training

The best form of training for a patent attorney is on-the-job experience. Specifically, from day-to-day, one-to-one discussions with partners. The firm also provides in-house tutorials for exam preparation and training sessions covering topics such as recent court cases.

Throughout the Coronavirus pandemic, I have felt supported by Maucher Jenkins. The quality and quantity of training I received has not suffered and the partners have worked hard to ensure everyone feels connected to their colleagues.

Future

I have just taken the IP PGCert at Queen Mary University. I now plan to progress through the UK and European exams, to become a fully chartered UK and European Patent Attorney.