Trainee Attorneys
Why become a trainee patent attorney?
As a trainee patent attorney at our firm, you’ll be constantly at the forefront of innovation and you’ll be exposed to a huge variety of industries and technologies. It’s a rewarding and intellectually challenging career where you’ll need to combine creative problem solving, a natural affinity with technology and a flair for writing.
As part of our team you’ll also develop your strategic thinking skills, helping us to deliver best value for our clients and enabling you to take an active role in the running of our business.
What are we expecting?
We’re looking for bright and ambitious graduates or PhD students who are committed to a career in intellectual property.
You will need at least a 2:1 degree, preferably a first, in a scientific or engineering discipline, and experience in industry is a distinct advantage.
You must be able to understand inventions from a wide range of technical fields as well as demonstrate keen analytical skills and the ability to work under time pressure. You’ll also need to be someone who has a real affinity with the commercial aspects of intellectual property.
Why Elkington and Fife?
Working here will give you the chance to deal with some of the world’s leading companies across a range of technical fields. Our clients include household names in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, food products, fine chemicals, nanotechnology, semiconductors, electronics, medical devices, information technology and lighting to name but a few.
This means you’ll find yourself at the forefront of innovation right from the start and will be exposed to a huge variety of fascinating and high-value IP work.
The work environment is another draw. Our firm is friendly and inclusive – everyone from support staff to senior partners is very approachable and we all work closely together.
The training support is excellent too. This is reflected in the high number of first-time examination passes our people achieve – no mean feat in this industry.
On the social side, we organise regular events that are popular with staff. And our dress-down Fridays reflect the fact that we’re not big on formality.
What can you expect?
We believe that there is no substitute for learning on the job. That’s why you’ll immediately start working on real client files under the guidance of a senior associate or partner who will work intensively with you throughout your training.
You’ll also be exposed to different types of IP work with other partners, giving you a broad introduction to IP work early on and helping you to become a patent attorney with a truly all-round skill set.
Click here for a detailed job description and here for a detailed description of our training programme.
Equality and diversity
We are signatories to the IP Inclusive Charter and are committed to supporting and promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion in the IP professions.
