What are the highs and lows of patent work?

As a patent agent or patent examiner you will experience a diverse range of work and learn about brand new inventions – so you’re unlikely to get bored. You are also likely to be able to build up expertise in a range of scientific and technical areas. Career progression is generally structured with lots of potential for professional development and patent law salaries are pretty generous too.

Patent attorneys find it rewarding when a project is granted a patent, particularly if it has taken years to get there. The job involves some travel, such as visiting clients if they need to demonstrate their invention on-site, going to the UK Intellectual Property Office and visiting the European Patent Office . However, it takes a long time to qualify as a registered patent agent and the exams are hard. There is a lot of detailed work and pressure from strict deadlines.

Patent examiners usually enjoy being able to affect how technology is used for years to come. They also like to get stuck into projects, using their analytical and research abilities to make real decisions. While the administrative processes are routine, patent examiners tend to gain a sense of achievement when they've found the information they were looking for.