My team and I work with a range of biotech and pharmaceutical clients both inside and outside of Cambridge.
The majority of my work concerns immunotherapy, both passive and active. In this field I am involved in all aspects of strategic portfolio development, including drafting and coordinating worldwide prosecution. However, more and more of my time these days is spent with later stage products, in particular attacking and defending patents in Opposition and Appeal proceedings before the European Patent Office. The nature of these products also requires regular performance of freedom to operate (FTO) searches and analysis and devising strategies to address the results. I particularly enjoy these high value collaborative projects where I can work as part of a larger team, but also ultimately see the benefit to patients being realised.
My aim is always to ensure that our clients enjoy working with us. I take pride in being able to give clear, readily understandable advice. This can be challenging when dealing with large, complex projects and often requires input from people in different parts of the business, each of whom have slightly different priorities and attitude to risk. I find it immensely rewarding when we get the opportunity to work with the same client on a new project because it tells me they were happy with our input in the last one.
Due to the work I do, I am highly experienced in contentious procedures and have recently gained more experience in coordinating EPO procedures with national litigation. The UPC provides new opportunities for collaborative working and we are in a strong position to help those of our clients who wish to take advantage of the system.
On a personal level I have taken an active role in equality, diversity and inclusion here at Boult. I am proud to have launched our partnership with the Sutton Trust to spread the word about the IP profession to a more diverse set of candidates earlier in their educational lives. I am also one of the original signatories of the IP Inclusive Senior Leaders’ Pledge, which includes a promise to work alongside more junior colleagues to effect positive change in this area.