My background is biochemistry, and so my primary technical fields are biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medicine, food science and medical devices. I work in patents and have wide experience in this area, including UK litigation and freedom to operate opinions. My core area of expertise is law and practice at the EPO, where I have considerable experience, especially in opposition and appeal procedures.

I qualified as both a UK and European Patent Attorney in 1989, and became a partner in 1993. From 2010 to 2015 I was Managing Partner.  I spend several weeks a year in the office in Munich, in connection with my work at the EPO.

I have been a member of the epi and CIPA Councils, and part of the epi Professional Education Committee and CIPA Education Committee.  I am regularly invited to talk at EPO-organised events, both internal and external.

I am married with two adult daughters – so have plenty of practice of arguing my case in the face of overwhelming odds – and live in North London. We spend as much time as we can meeting and laughing with friends. I am an avid music fan and regular concert-goer – the more obscure the better. I am also no stranger to disappointment, being a life-long supporter of Watford FC.