Have you ever heard of a patent attorney? I hadn’t when I was doing my A-levels. I only came across the profession when I was nearing the completion of my PhD and wondering where life would take me next. I had decided that I did not want to remain a ‘bench’ scientist but was determined to follow a career that used the knowledge of the biological sciences that I had gathered over my years at university. I realised that a career as a patent attorney appeared to be a way of discarding the laboratory coat while still being involved in cutting-edge biology. Read on if such a career path is of interest to you!
A patent attorney advises clients about intellectual property (IP) law. IP laws exist to allow innovative people and companies to exploit their developments free from competition. It gives them an opportunity to enjoy market exclusivity for a period of time. IP rights can cover many different forms of innovation including artistic works, designs, brands, products and manufacturing processes. Protection may take the form of a patent, trademark, registered design or copyright.
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