News, ELRIG 16/10/2025 Patents vs. Trade Secrets in Early-Stage Drug Development In the pharmaceutical sector, timing is everything, especially when it comes to patent filing. For startups, navigating the complex and high stakes world of drug discovery, knowing when to file a patent can be just as critical as knowing what to file. Poorly timed filings can undermine the strength, scope, and commercial value of a patent, potentially jeopardizing the startup’s competitive edge and investment potential.
News, ELRIG 15/10/2025 Timing Patent Filings for Maximum Impact in Drug Discovery In the pharmaceutical sector, timing is everything, especially when it comes to patent filing. For startups, navigating the complex and high stakes world of drug discovery, knowing when to file a patent can be just as critical as knowing what to file. Poorly timed filings can undermine the strength, scope, and commercial value of a patent, potentially jeopardizing the startup’s competitive edge and investment potential.
Events, News, ELRIG 14/10/2025 Strengthening your intellectual property (IP) position ahead of investor due diligence For early-stage drug discovery companies, intellectual property (IP) is often the cornerstone of value creation. Patents not only protect innovation but also serve as a key signal of credibility and commercial potential. As such, they are a central focus during investor due diligence. However, many startups underestimate the depth and complexity of IP scrutiny during fundraising. Without careful preparation, even promising ventures face delays, reduced valuations, or failed deals.
News, Team news, Trade Marks 14/10/2025 Considerations when filing trade marks abroad International expansion is always a sign that your business is enjoying success and is no doubt an exciting frontier of opportunity. Nonetheless, expansion abroad comes with its risks, particularly when it comes to your brand. This guide provides you with tips on how to safely navigate unchartered international frontiers.
Events, News, ELRIG 13/10/2025 Resolving patent ownership issues in drug discovery startups In the pharmaceutical startup space, patents are often the foundation upon which companies are built. However, when it comes to ownership (and inventorship), early-stage companies, particularly those emerging from academic environments or involving multiple collaborators, frequently encounter complications. These issues can be highly disruptive, affecting not only the enforceability of patents but also the company’s ability to raise funds, enter partnerships, or secure licensing deals.
Events, News, ELRIG 09/10/2025 Managing intellectual property (IP) risks in licensing and collaboration agreements Licensing and collaborations are vital tools for drug discovery startups. They provide access to enabling technologies, reduce development costs, and accelerate time to market. However, these partnerships can also introduce significant intellectual property (IP) risks if not carefully structured. For startups operating in a high stake, IP-driven environment, missteps in licensing or collaboration agreements can have long-term consequences.
ELRIG 08/10/2025 Smart intellectual property (IP) strategies for resource-constrained drug discovery startups Startups in the drug discovery space often operate under intense financial constraints, particularly in the early stages. Among their most valuable assets are patents, which serve as critical tools for protecting innovation, attracting investment, and establishing competitive advantage. However, securing and maintaining robust patent protection is often viewed as expensive, time-consuming, and legally complex. For resource-limited companies, navigating this landscape requires careful planning and strategic decision-making.
Industry news, News 07/10/2025 Securing Innovation: Strategic Intellectual Property Layering for Medical Devices The intellectual property (IP) landscape for medical devices is characterised by complexity and rapid technological advancement, necessitating a strategic approach that extends far beyond relying on singular protective measures. Secerna LLP Patent Attorney Melvyn Ansell and Trainee Patent Attorney, Ella Hudson recently contributed an insightful guest article to Outlook, the digital publication by Test Labs focused on insights, innovation, and success stories from across the medical device industry.
News, Team news 30/09/2025 Seas The Day: The Innovation Behind the Gear - The Parachute (Para) Anchor As the Seas the Day rowing team embarks on their 8,000-mile odyssey across the Pacific Ocean, the cutting-edge equipment they rely on plays a vital role in ensuring their safety, efficiency, and communication during this epic voyage. Many of the features that make this gear indispensable are - or were - protected by patents. In this article, we delve into several key pieces of equipment that the team will rely on during their expedition.