I enjoyed science and experiments at school, and chemistry seemed a natural choice for me to study at university in China. For my final-year project I synthesised and tested a drug, but I was curious about how the drug worked in the human body, which led me to choose pharmacology for my Master’s degree in the UK. I am very glad that I did because pharmacology opened the door to the fascinating world of biological sciences, which I explored further in my PhD and postdoc studies.
After the first 20 seconds reading patent infringement pleadings during an IP mini-pupillage! I thought they were a perfect combination of law and science, and I realised that IP law was the most natural next step in my career.
Both pharmacology and chemistry are experimental disciplines which train an analytical and critical mind; law also requires critical analysis of complex facts and principles. Having a background in pharmacology and chemistry is often helpful in understanding certain technical aspects in biopharma cases – however, every case is different and every case involves learning about new technical advances (which is part of the fun in patent litigation).
My role encompasses all aspects of litigation support, from document review and management, court filings, legal and scientific research, patent analysis, drafting letters and court documents, hearing / trial management and costs analysis. In very general terms, I see my role as helping to make every step in the litigation process run as smoothly as possible. No two days are the same, and even the most seemingly straightforward task can throw up surprises at the last minute.
I am very lucky to have worked on cases across many technical areas. I have been involved in cases relating to RNA vaccines, standard essential patents (SEPs) and FRAND licences, gene editing technologies, plant variety rights, drones, turbochargers, robotics and automated storage solutions, and car jump starters. Whatever the technical area, there are always new things to learn in each case, which is what makes this area of law exciting.
Patent litigation has intense periods which can feel challenging at times, but also enjoyable and rewarding when you achieve a successful outcome.
The humble hiking boot and all the innovations that make boots light, waterproof, supportive and grippy. I am a keen long-distance walker, and at the end of a long day of walking in unforgiving terrains and weathers, I always feel extremely grateful that my feet are protected and are only tired!
Learning to ski on the PG ski trip.
