Background
From 2016 to 2020 I studied for an MChem in Chemistry at the University of Leeds, where I also undertook a Year in Industry in R&D at Lubrizol. Following this, I completed a PhD in Chemistry at the University of Leeds, working on nanocarbon modified micro and nanoscale electrochemical sensors, which saw me working across Chemistry, Electrical Engineering and Medicine. I joined Abel + Imray in September 2024 as a Trainee Patent Attorney in the Chem/Bio team.
What attracted you to your role?
During my PhD I came to realise that a career in the lab was probably not for me, however, I was keen to find a role that was still involved in cutting-edge scientific developments. I first heard about being a patent attorney at a Women in Chemistry conference. Hearing about the experiences of a senior attorney made me realise that my skillset and my interest in being involved in current research advances, without being the one in the lab, might be suited to a career as a patent attorney.
My PhD was highly interdisciplinary; this also drew me to a career as a patent attorney as I was keen to be able to work in a role which spans multiple subject areas and has varied day-to-day activities. Being a patent attorney is a unique role as it involves scientific understanding, law and a keen attention to detail. I very much enjoy working with a range of clients across a breadth of industries, and from small-scale start-ups to multi-national companies. I enjoy the variety of work and the intellectual challenge that comes with the job, alongside the new challenges associated with learning the associated law.
How did you get your job at Abel + Imray?
To help ensure that the career was for me, I secured some work experience at two London-based firms. This was extremely helpful in gaining an insight into the day-to-day of the career, and I also learnt some valuable tips for applying for upcoming roles and tackling interviews. I applied for the role at Abel + Imray alongside a few other firms, as many firms tend to advertise at a similar time of year. Most applications required a CV and covering letter, alongside answering a few technical or motivational questions. Abel + Imray invited me for a video call interview soon after applying, which was then followed by an in-person second stage interview a couple of weeks later.
What skills are useful in this profession?
As the Patent Offices that attorneys deal with run on strict deadlines, it’s extremely important to be well organised and have a structured way of working. Communication, both verbally and in writing, is also key, as it’s really important to be able to express exactly what you mean in a clear and concise manner, with a high attention to detail. The role involves a lot of reading and digesting large amounts of technical and legal information, so it’s important to be happy with this style of working, and to also have an underlying interest in understanding how inventions work, alongside an enthusiasm to learn about the new world of IP law.
Do you have any advice for anyone wanting to enter the profession?
As with any career, it’s important to do your research into what the role will be like. It’s a challenging career, and there are exams to pass in the first few years, but that hopefully shouldn’t put you off if the day-to-day role sounds appealing! I found that doing some work experience really helped me to make up my mind before applying for roles. I also spoke to a couple of contacts who were patent attorneys to hear their experiences. Each firm is different, so it’s also worthwhile researching which ones might be a good fit for you before applying.
