At a Glance
- Tasks: Protect and commercialise cutting-edge tech innovations while studying to become a qualified patent attorney.
- Company: Join Kilburn & Strode, a leading firm in patent and trade mark law.
- Benefits: Receive paid study leave, exam fees, and internal training support.
- Other info: Dynamic traineeship lasting up to five years with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of innovation and work with top global clients.
- Qualifications: 1st or 2:1 degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Physics, or Mathematics required.
The predicted salary is between 25650 - 31350 £ per year.
Do you want to take your scientific knowledge beyond the lab and into the real world? Imagine playing a key role in protecting and commercialising cutting-edge technological innovations and working alongside some of the leading scientists in their fields. If that sounds exciting, have you considered a career as a patent attorney? It’s a unique and intellectually stimulating role, combining deep scientific understanding with complex legal, strategic and commercial thinking.
Our traineeship offers the opportunity to work at the forefront of innovation and contribute to high-impact IP matters, all while studying towards your exams to become a qualified UK and European patent attorney.
Why Kilburn & Strode?
Kilburn & Strode is a leading firm of European patent and trade mark attorneys with offices in London, The Netherlands, San Francisco and Boston. We help the most creative companies protect the most innovative ideas and designs in the most competitive markets, working for the world’s finest organisations – companies like Vertiv, Elvie, Zoom, Immunocore and NBCUniversal. We have a culture built on diversity and are looking for people who share and demonstrate our ambition and commitment to our clients. This is an exciting time to join the firm and team.
The programme at a glance:
- Duration: The traineeship normally lasts up to five years.
- Exam support: You will receive support and guidance throughout your traineeship as you work towards your UK and EU qualifications as a Patent Attorney. This will include paid study leave, exam fees and internal training.
Our Tech + Eng team
We are recruiting for places on our Technology and Engineering training programme, starting in October 2027, where we will support, mentor and develop you into a world-class patent attorney, working on some of the most exciting new products and ideas from across the globe. Our team comprises over 60 individuals, advising high-profile global clients across all fields of technology. At Kilburn & Strode, we offer a quality structured training programme and a dedicated people manager to help guide you through your traineeship. No two days are ever the same.
Throughout the course of your training, you will master the fundamentals of UK and European patent law, learn how to draft patent applications, take part in opinion and opposition work, and interact with clients.
Who can apply?
Candidates who are on track to achieve, or who have achieved, a 1st or 2:1 at undergraduate level in the following degrees:
- Computer Science
- Electrical/Electronic Engineering
- Physics
- Mathematics
Although not a requirement, a postgraduate degree or work experience focusing on medical technology, cleantech or AI would be considered favourably.
Our recruitment process
We want you to know what to expect at each stage of the process:
- Application form: You will complete an online application form outlining your employment and academic history.
- Video interview: If your application meets the relevant requirements for the role, we will invite you to complete a video interview. Video interview invites are issued after the closing date. You will have up to 7 days to complete the video interview.
- Assessment centre: Successful candidates will be invited to an in-person assessment centre, which will be the final stage of the process.
We will keep you updated by email at each stage, so you always know where your application stands.
Areas of Specialism: Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Engineering - Other, Technology
Trainee Patent Attorney – Technology and Engineering employer: Kilburn & Strode LLP
Kilburn & Strode LLP is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive environment for aspiring Trade Mark Attorneys. With a strong commitment to employee development, our trainees benefit from comprehensive exam support, mentorship, and the opportunity to work with a diverse range of clients in a collaborative culture. Located in London, we pride ourselves on fostering innovation and creativity, making it an ideal place for those looking to build a meaningful and rewarding career in intellectual property law.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Patent Attorney – Technology and Engineering
✨Join Local Law Societies
Get involved with local law societies in your area. These groups often host networking events, workshops, and panels that can provide insider insights and potential job leads. It’s a great way to meet professionals who can vouch for you!
✨Leverage University Resources
Swing by your uni’s career centre and see what they’ve got on offer for law students. They usually have connections with firms looking for trainees, and can help you polish your interview skills through mock interviews. Don’t forget to ask about any upcoming recruitment fairs!
✨Connect with Trainee Alumni
Reach out to past trainees from your network or alumni groups. They can offer invaluable advice on their experiences and might even point you to firms that are hiring. Plus, you never know when a friendly face could help your application stand out!
✨Submit Direct Applications through Our Website
Don't wait around for listings! If you’ve got your heart set on a certain firm like Kilburn & Strode LLP, drop them a direct application through their website. Tailor your cover letter to reflect your passion for law and what you can bring to their team!
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Patent Attorney – Technology and Engineering
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Legal Acumen:Make sure your CV highlights your knowledge of legal principles and any relevant coursework. This is super important for a trainee role, so if you've got any practical experience like mooting competitions or internships, be sure to include those to show us what you've learned in practice!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Let us know why legal services excite you and detail your motivation for wanting to be a trainee with us at Kilburn & Strode LLP. Share any unique experiences or insights you've had that relate to our work — we love to see passion!
Demonstrate Your Research Skills:As part of a legal team, strong research skills are key. If you've conducted any legal research during your studies or previous roles, mention specific cases or legal documents you've worked with. Including these details can set you apart from other candidates applying for your trainee spot.
Tailor Your Documents to Us:When applying through our website, make sure you're tailoring your CV and cover letter specifically for the role at Kilburn & Strode LLP. Use our job posting as a guide to emphasize the skills and qualifications that align perfectly with the trainee position — it shows us you're keen and have done your homework!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kilburn & Strode LLP
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Get ready to showcase your understanding of key legal concepts and principles relevant to the field. Brush up on areas like contract law or torts, as you might encounter some scenario-based questions during your interview. It’s not just about memorising; be prepared to discuss how you'd apply these principles in real-world situations, which will highlight your analytical skills.
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In legal interviews, your ability to conduct thorough research is essential. Be prepared to discuss how you approach case studies or legal precedents. You might also be asked about tools like Westlaw or LexisNexis, so having some familiarity with these platforms can really set you apart.
✨Emphasise Your Enthusiasm for Learning
As a trainee, companies like Kilburn & Strode LLP want to see your passion for the law and eagerness to learn. Bring up any relevant coursework, internships, or voluntary work during your studies. This shows that you're proactive and ready to embrace the challenges of the legal world.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect a few behavioural questions that probe your problem-solving and teamwork skills. Examples might relate to how you've handled conflict in a group project or dealt with tight deadlines. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses clearly, making it easy for the interviewers to see your thought process.
