During my PhD at a multi-disciplinary institute, I worked in collaboration with an international pharmaceutical company on a project which combined both Biochemistry and Physics. I found my PhD project to be particularly interesting whilst working in this environment as I was exposed to a wide range of scientific subject matter. I knew that I did not want to be restricted to a particular scientific field after my PhD and decided to look for alternative careers where I could continue to work within a range of different scientific areas. I had briefly come across the role of patent attorney through a careers event at university.
After further research into the role of patent attorney, I found that the combination of science, law and business greatly appealed to me. I decided to apply to a small number of firms, including Stratagem IPM, and was lucky enough to be invited for some challenging but fair interviews with various companies and, whilst I found my interview with Stratagem IPM to be technical, I was impressed by the variety of work that was on offer.
What I enjoy most about the role is the varied nature of the work, which includes multiple areas within the life and physical sciences such as complex biotech innovations, optics, microfluidics and diagnostic devices. It is not only the scientific content of the work that varies; since starting at Stratagem IPM, I have gained experience in patent prosecution, drafting and freedom to operate projects. I have also worked on commercial contracts, agreements and due diligence projects as well as regularly attending client meetings and getting to meet the inventors.
From the outset, trainees are given their own cases to work on whilst being supported by an experienced attorney. The varied nature of the business means that trainees often get the opportunity to work with numerous attorneys and experience different working styles. There is a comprehensive training programme here at Stratagem IPM which is very flexible in order to suit the needs of the trainee. We have in-house tutorials as well as external training courses to assist with the exams. Although the role can be very demanding and stressful at times due to exams, complex subject matter and workload, Stratagem IPM provides a very supportive and friendly environment in which to work. This support really enables you to learn and develop skills whilst on the job.
If you have a passion to be at the cutting edge of science and are looking for a challenging and rewarding career, then I would recommend joining the patent profession and considering a position with Stratagem IPM as it is a fantastic firm for which to work.
