Informal ‘Coffee Dates’ with IP Professionals
This is your chance to chat, either one-to-one or in small discussion groups, with people who already work in the IP professions! Let us know what type of career you’re interested in, and we’ll match you up with someone who can talk to you about it.
What to expect
These are very informal online discussions. One-to-one discussions will last 30 minutes. Group discussions may last between 30 and 45 minutes depending on the group size.
The IP professionals currently signed up for this project represent the following career roles: patent attorney, trade mark attorney, IP solicitor, IP barrister, IP paralegal, IP support, IT trainer, business support professional, patent examiner, IP project manager.
However, please let us know if you’re interested in another type of IP-related career, as we may be able to find another volunteer to talk to you.
You should prepare some questions beforehand to ask the person you meet with – for example about the work they do, what they enjoy about it, how they got their first job or what they’d tell their younger selves when they were in your position.
Who can apply?
Anyone over 18 with an interest in IP careers is encouraged to apply!
Limited places available. If we have large numbers of applicants, we may place applicants with similar interests into small groups, prioritise candidates from groups that are currently under-represented in the relevant part of the IP sector, or close applications early.
How to apply
Complete the form below and we’ll get back to you. Note that our matching may take up to two weeks – please bear with us as we are a small team!
Once you’re matched, your coffee date host will get in touch with you directly to organise a convenient time to chat.
If you require any additional information please email us at [email protected].
Note that this coffee date scheme will run during July and August 2026.
The form will be available when applications open mid-July. Please check back then!
Last Updated: May 14, 2026