“My journey started nearly 20 years ago. I studied biochemistry at university and I liked it so much, I stayed on and studied computing and biotechnology. In other words, I didn’t have a clue what I wanted to do! My first introduction to IP was during a lecture at university. I still didn’t understand what it was then I found a job advert for a patent job, which started something like “Do you have a science degree, speak French or German and have an interest in law?”. I had the first two, but I wasn’t really sure if I was interested in law because I’d never studied it. I didn’t get the job, but I was keen to learn more about a career in IP. I spoke to the Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys after my brother told me that some professions have an institute, so it’s generally a good starting point – he was right. Then I studied IP Law at Queen Mary College in London (I know, I like collecting certificates!) as an academic springboard into the profession to become part-qualified as a patent and trade mark attorney. Then I did some work experience at the Intellectual Property Office then I got a job as an IP paralegal in a top London law firm. After a LOT of hard work and excitement, I got my lucky break to train as an IP solicitor.
After qualifying, I left private practice to broaden my horizons in-house. I worked for many years as IP counsel for an IP rights management company working with household children’s brands and famous crime authors. Then I moved sideways to a top technology company in Cambridge. I had to dust off my computer diploma notes, but curiously I soon learnt that many lawyers started out as biochemists!”
IP Solicitor & Trade Mark Attorney / ARM / Cambridge