Before starting my training contract, I worked as a cardiac physiologist in a leading tertiary cardiac centre in London. I had a strong interest in science from a young age which led me to study Cardiac Physiology at undergraduate level and later complete an MSc in Translational Cardiovascular Medicine while continuing my clinical work. While I gained valuable skills through my work in the NHS,  clinical work was not where I saw myself in the long term, so I began exploring other careers that would allow me to make the most of my background in life sciences. Intellectual property law stood out as the perfect fit.

After completing an accelerated LLB, I was drawn to Bristows because of its reputation as a leader in life sciences and the breadth of work it offers in the sector. Another key factor in my decision was the firm’s progressive values and its visible commitment to improving diversity – from gender-balanced promotions and the composition of the senior management team, to the appointment of a female Joint Managing Partner at the time of my application. Hearing about the experiences of current and former trainees also reinforced my sense that Bristows had a genuinely positive and supportive culture.

My first seat in patent litigation involved working on interesting matters for clients in both the life sciences and technology sectors. While I joined the department at a time when there weren’t any live trials, I was involved in the early stages of patent disputes as well as the later stages of costs and damages proceedings. The team made a real effort to ensure trainees still had exposure to court proceedings, which I really appreciated.

During my time in patent litigation I became a member of a new internal working group at Bristows called the Women’s Health Initiative, which aims to strengthen the firm’s long-standing legal support of clients working in women’s health. Women’s health research, innovation, and the gender health gap are areas I feel passionately about, so it has been great to engage with this work within the firm.

Overall, it has been a steep learning curve, but one I have really enjoyed. The supportive culture at Bristows makes a huge difference – people genuinely take the time to explain things and make sure you’re developing in the right direction. It’s a place where trainees are trusted with meaningful work, but also encouraged to ask questions and grow.