I have 25 years' experience in the patent profession, joining D Young & Co in 2007 and becoming a partner in 2011. Before I arrived at the firm, I worked in private practice as well as an in-house attorney at Pfizer – my experience taking in both their European and US patent departments.

My area of expertise embraces all chemical subject-matter including pharmaceuticals, agricultural chemistry, food chemistry, and petrochemicals, as well as chemical synthesis and processes. I have particular experience in pharmaceutical patenting, encompassing new active substances, formulations, combination therapies, new medical indications, and manufacturing processes. My work embraces drafting new applications as well as UK, EPO and worldwide prosecution, EPO oppositions and appeals, and validity and freedom to operate opinions.

I have specialist experience in obtaining supplementary protection certificates (SPCs) and other forms of patent term extension, advising clients on SPC strategies and filing and prosecuting SPC portfolios throughout Europe on a number of important marketed pharmaceutical and plant protection products. I also have experience advising on regulatory-based protection for pharmaceuticals.

I act for a broad spectrum of clients, from multinationals and up-and-coming life sciences companies through to universities, spin-out and start-up companies.

I have spoken at a variety of conferences on life sciences IP, and in particular on SPCs. I am vice-chair of the Intellectual Property Owners Association (IPO) Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology Issues committee.

Awards

• Ranked as an IPSTAR 2024.
• Recognised as a recommended individual by IAM Patent 1000 2024.
• Featured in the Leaders League UK Best Law Firms & IP Agencies for Patent Prosecution 2024.