At a Glance
- Tasks: Examine patents in chemistry and biotechnology, shaping the future of innovation.
- Company: Join the UK government’s Intellectual Property Office, a leader in IP rights.
- Benefits: Comprehensive training, career progression, and hybrid working options after initial training.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of technological advancements and support innovators worldwide.
- Qualifications: 2:2 degree in chemistry or biotechnology; passion for science and collaboration.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with excellent mentorship and professional development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
The Intellectual Property Office (IPO) is the official UK government body responsible for intellectual property (IP) rights including patents, designs, trade marks and copyright. IP touches everything that makes life more enjoyable, easier, safer, and more prosperous. Our work gives researchers, inventors, creators and businesses the confidence to invest their time, energy and money in doing something new.
Patent Examiners are at the forefront of technological advancement, playing a pivotal role in shaping our future. Patent examining offers a unique and fascinating career where scientific and technical ingenuity meets legal acumen.
Field requirements:
- We are seeking people who have specialist knowledge in one of the following technical fields:
- Synthetic organic chemistry; polymer chemistry; and electrochemistry, for example battery, hydrogen fuel cell and electroplating technologies.
- Biotechnology or Biochemistry with experience of bioinformatics or immunology and demonstrable understanding of molecular biology.
Training and location:
For the first six months of employment, you will be required to work onsite in Newport for four days each week. This will give you a great introduction to the Intellectual Property Office and will help you to build contacts and relationships to support your future career. Once this six-month period has passed, attendance will be in line with IPO Hybrid working arrangements where staff are currently expected to spend at least 20% of their time working onsite from one of our offices.
Why Join Us:
As a Patent Examiner, you will gain insight into the developments being made around the world, from large businesses to individual innovators, supporting the UK economy by analysing and granting applications for UK patent rights.
Training and Development:
To complement your specialist scientific and technical knowledge, we’ll provide you with all the necessary training in the legal aspects of the role. You will be assigned a line manager who will work closely with you as you consolidate your learning in your initial years in the role. The initial training course will start on Monday 21 September 2026 full time for 7/8 weeks.
Professional Development:
After 2-5 years you’ll have the opportunity to progress from Associate Patent Examiner to Patent Examiner. After a few more years of development, a further non-competitive promotion is available to Senior Patent Examiner to become a subject matter expert and leader within our division.
Qualifications:
Applicants must hold at least a 2:2 degree in listed areas or be on track to receive one by the end of the academic year. IPO cannot offer Visa sponsorship to candidates through this campaign.
Person specification:
- Have a genuine interest in chemistry or biotechnology with enthusiasm for keeping your technical knowledge up to date.
- Value others’ views and have an open and respectful approach to collaboration.
- Communicate strongly, with the ability to convey complex technical issues clearly both in writing and verbally.
- Can review large amounts of information with an eye for detail, enabling you to pick out key points and reach timely, reasoned decisions.
Associate Patent Examiner: Chemistry & Biotechnology in Newport employer: Intellectual Property Office UK
Contact Detail:
Intellectual Property Office UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Patent Examiner: Chemistry & Biotechnology in Newport
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former Patent Examiners on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for the interview process. It’s all about making connections that could help us stand out!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those tricky questions! Brush up on your knowledge of chemistry and biotechnology, especially the areas mentioned in the job description. We want to show that we’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Set up mock interviews with friends or mentors. This will help us get comfortable with articulating our thoughts clearly and confidently, which is key when discussing complex technical issues.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows that we’re serious about joining the team at the Intellectual Property Office.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Patent Examiner: Chemistry & Biotechnology in Newport
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience in chemistry or biotechnology. We want to see how your background aligns with the role of an Associate Patent Examiner, so don’t hold back on showcasing your skills!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for innovation and intellectual property shine through in your written application. We love candidates who are genuinely excited about the field, so share what drives you and why you want to be part of our team.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This will help us understand your qualifications quickly!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details directly and can process your application smoothly. We’re looking forward to hearing from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Intellectual Property Office UK
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of synthetic organic chemistry, polymer chemistry, and biotechnology. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your studies or work experience that showcase your expertise in these areas.
✨Understand the Role
Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of a Patent Examiner. Think about how your background in chemistry or biotechnology aligns with the role and be prepared to explain why you're passionate about intellectual property and innovation.
✨Practice Your Communication Skills
Since you'll need to convey complex technical issues clearly, practice explaining your research or projects to someone without a scientific background. This will help you articulate your thoughts during the interview and demonstrate your communication skills.
✨Show Enthusiasm for Learning
The IPO values candidates who are eager to keep their technical knowledge up to date. Be ready to discuss how you stay informed about advancements in your field and express your excitement about the training and development opportunities offered by the IPO.