Job Specification – Trainee Patent Attorney Department ... - Olswang

Job Specification – Trainee Patent Attorney
Department: Intellectual Property
OVERVIEW:
Olswang is a leading business law firm with a distinctive approach. We have a commanding
reputation in the technology sector, among others, and we were awarded the Technology, Media
and Telecoms Team of the Year (Legal Business Awards 2009). A true “one stop shop”for
patent protection and enforcement, Olswang is unique among major UK law firms as it comprises
both solicitors and patent attorneys. Our patent team was shortlisted for Patent Team of the year
2011 (Managing Intellectual Property Magazine awards). We are ranked in the top tier for
Technology and Life science by Legal 500.
We have a 10 partner IP team, 50 people in total, who deal with all aspects of intellectual
property, from patent drafting and prosecution to EPO oppositions and litigation before the UK
courts. We are the only full service UK law firm to combine patent attorneys with solicitors in this
way; we currently have 8 patent attorneys and one trainee, who between them cover all technical
areas.
THE ROLE:
We are currently looking for a Trainee Patent Attorney to join our busy London based team. This
is a specialist career path and would suit ambitious individuals who would be looking to qualify as
a UK and European patent attorney. [This is not a route to qualifying as a solicitor but will provide
driven and dedicated individuals with an alternative career path within the law].
You will be trained in the drafting and filing of patent applications, effective patent prosecution
and EPO opposition and appeal work. Your work may also include involvement in freedom to
operate opinions, IP due diligence and litigation support.
The position is open to a new starter in the profession or to a trainee patent attorney who has 0-2
years experience.
KEY REQUIREMENTS:
· Excellent academic record – minimum 2.1 (or equivalent) degree in physics, computer
science, electronic/electrical engineering, or a similar high-tech science or engineering
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discipline.
· The ideal candidate may have a further degree and/or worked in industry. Experience
after degree level in one or more of the following would be valuable: software
engineering, telecoms, signal processing, machine intelligence, and experience of
computer implemented inventions.
· Candidates should be motivated, enthusiastic and interested in developing their
knowledge of IP law and patent prosecution.
· Attention to detail and thoroughness is important as is a motivated and enthusiastic
attitude.
· Flexible in attitude and approach to work. Able to demonstrate effective organisational
and prioritisation skills. At times the successful candidate will be working to tight
deadlines and under pressure and will be required to maintain accuracy and attention to
detail.
· Effective team player - able to work effectively in an established, close-knit team. An
enthusiastic and engaged attitude with excellent people skills and a good, clear
communication style. Able to form strong working relationships across all areas of the
practice.
· Willingness to assist across diverse technical and legal areas.
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