This year’s theme is IP and Youth: Innovating for a Better Future. Some Powell Gilbert Associates have reflected on why they chose to specialise in IP, what IP means to them & how it helps shape the future.
 
Jessica Rosethorn, Associate:
“After reading engineering at university, I knew I still wanted to be involved in the world of STEM and work on something that is tangible. IP offers just that and what’s more it is increasingly becoming a mainstream talking point.  Whether it’s impacting creatives dreaming up new songs in a world where everyone has access to practically every song ever created, or a pharmaceuticals company developing life-saving treatments and pioneering medical breakthroughs, and working out how to protect its inventions whilst still getting them to the people who need them most – IP is at the forefront of how we, as a global community, can build a future together.”
 
Adam Mackinnon, Associate:
“IP was always a natural fit for me as a way to stay involved in science and technology, within the world of law. Ideas are all too easy to steal and IP creates an invaluable framework and legal system to protect them. Patents, in particular, reward and incentivise scientific research, invention and technological innovation, all of which ultimately drive the world forward and continue to make it a healthier, richer and more sustainable place. As I was doubtful of my ability to make those breakthroughs myself, a career in IP seemed like the next best thing!”
 
Theo Cooper, Associate:
“As a patent lawyer, deep-diving into the detail of a new invention is an extremely enjoyable challenge. Every case is a new opportunity to learn and you could be playing a part in the protection of the next life-changing treatment, device or technology. Almost everything we do as patent lawyers has wider international implications and coordinating an international strategy to account for this impact is an exciting aspect of the job.”
 
Ashley Stansfield, Associate:
“Working in IP, and in particular patent law, has provided an opportunity to work with companies which have developed brilliant technologies with real world impact. In a time when the world is facing multifaceted challenges such as climate change, incentivising innovation is particularly important and IP plays a key role in that. The prospect of supporting companies working to overcome these challenges makes it an exciting time to be an IP lawyer.”