Associate, Patents

21 hours ago

London Area, United Kingdom Rutherford Full time

Overview

Our client, a major international law firm with a top-tier contentious IP offering, is looking to appoint a patent litigation associate into its London practice. The team is widely recognised for steering complex, multi-jurisdictional patent disputes, particularly in the life sciences and technology sectors, and regularly co-ordinates strategy across key European forums, including the UPC.

The group handles technically sophisticated disputes and is known for its commercial approach — resolving matters pragmatically where possible, and litigating decisively when required.

The Role

The incoming lawyer will join a busy London team and work primarily across contentious patent matters. You will contribute to large-scale court litigation, EPO opposition and appeal work, and global strategy on parallel proceedings involving multiple jurisdictions.

Working closely with senior lawyers and partners, the role offers hands-on responsibility from the outset and consistent exposure to high-profile matters for innovative clients across pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medical devices and advanced technology.

Key Responsibilities

  • Developing a deep understanding of the scientific and technical issues underpinning each dispute.
  • Reviewing patents to develop arguments on infringement and validity.
  • Drafting correspondence, pleadings, applications, and supporting evidence.
  • Preparing and engaging with technical and factual witnesses, including experts.
  • Managing communications with clients, courts, overseas counsel, and relevant authorities.
  • Assisting advocates during hearings and trial preparation.
  • Conducting structured legal research and maintaining matter documentation.
  • Providing guidance to trainees and paralegals on day-to-day tasks.

Your Profile

  • 2–5 years' PQE
    , qualified in England & Wales or overseas with solid exposure to English litigation processes.
  • Strong background in
    patent litigation
    or technical IP disputes, with the ability to quickly grasp complex scientific and technological concepts.
  • Excellent academics, clear written advocacy, and confident communication skills; experience supporting junior team members is advantageous.
  • Highly organised, commercially minded, and able to manage competing deadlines while maintaining a client-focused approach.
  • Resilient, adaptable, and committed to continuous learning, business development, and contributing to a collaborative team environment.

Rutherford is a leading legal recruiter that also works closely with tier one sponsors, buyside firms and investment banks for in-house roles. Please get in contact if you would like to be alerted to the most exciting Counsel opportunities.

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Job Reference: NWC5657

Keywords:

Patent litigation, contentious IP, UPC, EPO oppositions, pharmaceutical disputes, technology litigation, life sciences, technical trade secrets, 2–5 PQE, London litigation, multi-jurisdictional disputes, IP associate, scientific patents, commercial IP disputes

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