After completing my first degree in biological and medicinal chemistry, I decided to complete a PhD. While I enjoyed scientific research, I decided that I did not see myself working in the lab long-term. Alongside my PhD, I also worked part-time in technology transfer, assessing academic research for its commercial viability patentability. This gave me my first real insight into IP and inspired me to pursue a career in law.

Coming from a STEM background, I was attracted to Bristows because of its reputation in IP and strong sector focus in life sciences and technology. I found the process of applying for a training contract at the firm straightforward and personable, as the process consisted of a written application, written task, and a series of interviews.

I began my training contract with a six-month seat in Patent Litigation, before moving to a three-month seat in Real Estate, and now a seat in the Commercial IT, IP and DCL. I have enjoyed the variety of seats available at Bristows throughout my training contract, as it has allowed me to start developing both contentious and transactional skills. I’ve also had the great opportunity to attend a two-day hearing at the Court of Appeal as part of a patent litigation matter.

While my day-to-day work varies depending on the seat, my typical tasks include carrying out legal research, drafting documents, reviewing agreements, or preparing attendance notes and meeting minutes.

Aside from the work, the culture at Bristows is another aspect of my training contract that I have really enjoyed. The environment is really friendly and supportive. Supervisors are genuinely interested in trainee development and always encouraging us to explore areas of interest and take on more responsibility wherever we can. On the personal side, I have also found the small trainee cohort of 10 to be a real benefit. It has allowed me to connect with peers and made settling in at the firm easy.