As we seek to inspire the next generation of talented patent attorneys, it was great to open the doors to a group of undergraduates for a taster day in July.

The day was designed to share what working in intellectual property and life at an IP firm is like and included practical tasks that show attendees the skills required for client projects and the opportunity to speak and shadow members of the Secerna team.

Ella Hudson, who is studying for a PhD in Bio Materials at Sheffield University said, “I have been looking at careers outside of the laboratory and this has given me a great insight into what I would be doing day to day, which has made me feel positive about a career in IP. Also, there were key points raised which will be very helpful for preparing for interviews.”

Secerna chairman Jason Boakes said, “We are keen to keep giving talented young science and technology graduates looking for an alternative to a career in industry. We wanted to show just how rewarding and challenging a role as a patent attorney can be, and it is days like our taster day that allow us to share insights into how IP works and answer any questions they may have.

The group who attended this summer demonstrated that they have the raw skills that can make excellent attorneys and I hope that they have left inspired to pursue a career as a patent attorney.”