What is intellectual property?
We all have ideas. And sometimes people will pay you for them.
Intellectual property – or ‘IP’ – is anything that might be worth something, but where the valuable bit is more of an idea than a physical object. See our jargon buster.
A house is ‘property’, because there’s something physical there. The design for a house, on the other hand, is intellectual property because, even when it’s drawn out on blueprints, it’s the idea that’s valuable, not the paper it’s printed on. Read more…
Why work in ideas?
Careers in ideas mix creativity with the practical application of imagination through science and engineering. They combine the detailed eye of a lawyer with an enterprising business brain. And they bring together opportunities in arts and media with solutions to global challenges.
Intellectual property is a current flowing under so much of modern society. That means working in IP puts you at the heart of important developments.
It also means careers in ideas not only bring respect and responsibility, but also good salaries and rewards.
What careers are there in ideas?
From high-flying lawyers to super-efficient administrators, from innovative designers to international business people, there are many careers in ideas and intellectual property. Read more…
Take a closer look at just some of the roles, meet people who do those jobs and search for openings for you.
Getting a career in ideas
There are career openings in intellectual property whether you’re a school-leaver at 16 or you have postgraduate qualifications. Read more…
At the more junior level, the opportunities are mostly in administrative roles. Given the level of qualifications needed, they are varied and exciting roles, that soon come with plenty of responsibility and decent pay. If you’re organised and have good business skills, you can rise through the ranks fast.
The more senior roles though are for graduates – often people who’ve studied science, engineering, law, or even a combination of them. Many jobs will require specific qualifications for entry and/or on-the-job training.
For more details, take a look at the descriptions of different roles here.
The best route into a career in IP is to get some work experience in the field. That helps you test whether it could be the career for you, but it also helps you grow your understanding and shows your enthusiasm. Try approaching some of the supporters of this website, or, for current opportunities, look here.
A career for anyone
The wide demands of careers in IP – legal, technical, scientific and administrative – mean there are opportunities for everyone, regardless of background, race, gender, sexuality or physical ability. Read more…
Ideas people
All sorts of people find fulfilling careers in IP, from different backgrounds in different roles. The jobs are generally well paid and offer more than just money. There are challenges, excitements, recognition and responsibility.
Meet some of those people here and hear their stories…
