Trainee Patent Attorney - Computational Chemistry

Trainee Patent Attorney – Computational Chemistry

Apply for the Trainee Patent Attorney – Computational Chemistry role at Mewburn Ellis and develop your career within a leading IP firm.

Overview

Life as a Trainee Patent Attorney means using your academic background in a stimulating and varied way, working on innovations and inventions at the forefront of your scientific field.

At Mewburn Ellis we are collegial, supportive and progressive. With an industry‑leading training programme and a placement scheme that keeps learning fresh and insightful we ensure you’re set up to develop quickly and learn about the profession from a variety of partners from day one.

\”We have monthly tutorials by knowledgeable partners and associates. They help us to prepare for exams but also help us to become well‑rounded patent attorneys.\” – Anna, Attorney

Trained for Excellence is one of our key values that permeates our firm, enabling every partner, associate and trainee to develop their full potential as high‑level attorneys.

Computational Chemistry at Mewburn Ellis

Advances in AI‑driven chemistry are central to cutting‑edge technology across a huge range of industries. Data‑driven approaches such as QSAR/QSPR or GANs transform how we discover, design, or optimise molecules and materials, from pharmaceuticals to renewable fuels, recyclable plastics, electronics, aerospace and medical devices.

Our highly skilled chemistry and materials team covers every aspect of chemistry, whether protecting products, processes or AI/Machine‑Learning‑powered discover programmes, and partners with large multinationals, research institutions, start‑ups and universities.

\”It’s genuinely thrilling to work with clients using cheminformatics and AI to drive molecular discovery and innovation. I’m pleased to apply my academic background daily as a patent attorney, supporting clients in this exciting area.\” – Aidan, Attorney

The Role

Reflecting the exciting technology spaces in which our clients operate, you will work closely with colleagues across our chemistry practice group, as well as attorneys from life sciences, engineering, technology, physics, solicitors and trade‑mark teams. We take a holistic approach to IP and that will be a theme throughout your training and beyond.

You will be invested in personal and professional growth, gaining experience across different mentors and areas that allow you to develop as an attorney and find your niche.

You will sit with a qualified patent attorney and assist them with all parts of their work, including drafting and prosecuting patent applications and advising clients on various aspects of intellectual property law.

Essentially, we provide you with all the tools needed to become a trusted advisor to clients, helping you use your scientific background in a legal context.

What’s in it for you?

• A friendly, inclusive and team‑based working culture
• A hybrid office and home working approach
• A generous remuneration package
• Enhanced pension scheme / family leave
• Financial support for location changes – see placement scheme for details
• 30 days annual leave (not incl. bank holidays) and additional study leave days
• Wide range of domestic and international clients with the chance to work abroad
• One paid day off per year for charitable endeavours and fundraising matching
• Firm‑wide discretionary bonus
• Multiple additional benefits such as discount vouchers, workplace ISA, electric car, bike‑to‑work and healthcare cash plan schemes

About You

We look for individuals with a curious, enquiring mind. Excellent communication skills, especially in writing, are vital. General commercial awareness is valuable but no prior knowledge of patent law is required. An open‑minded, personable approach to learning will also serve you well.

Because the role is highly specialist, a strong academic background in Chemistry, Cheminformatics or Computational Chemistry is essential, along with strong evidence of post‑degree learning. This may be, for example, a relevant Masters coupled with industry experience or a PhD in a relevant computational field.

Please note that due to the level of expertise required, we are unable to progress applications that don’t meet these criteria.

If the role sounds appealing and you could start your career journey with us in Bristol, Cambridge, London or Manchester we’d love to hear from you.

We’re committed to equal opportunities and welcome a broad diversity of talent to apply.

Seniority level

Entry level

Employment type

Full‑time

Job function

Science and Legal

Industries

Law Practice