James specialises in European patent matters relating to chemistry, with a broad practice spanning everything from pharmaceuticals to novel materials and chemical processing.
On pharmaceuticals, he advises clients at all stages, from small-molecule target identification to
commercialized-product-stage portfolio strategy. Notable recent pharmaceutical work includes protecting a first-in-class blockbuster small-molecule cardiac drug. His non-pharmaceutical practice focusses on electrochemical inventions and specialty materials such as bioplastics and nanotechnologies.
James previously worked in-house for a global corporation as part of their IP strategy team. In his current role, he leverages this experience and emphasizes building commercial value for his clients through IP. Here, he advises on the strategic use of patent portfolios and other IP tools to deliver on commercial objectives, particularly in contentious areas. James adopts a pragmatic and business-oriented approach to support his clients’ success throughout.
He is particularly experienced with diligence and opinion work for investment rounds, licensing/transactional negotiations and M&A. He enjoys supporting companies during the acquisition of new assets and then devising an IP strategy to deliver on long-term commercial objectives.
James graduated with a Master’s in Chemistry (MChem) from the University of Manchester. He also holds a second Master’s from the University of Manchester, in Intellectual Property Law (LLM). James is also a regular lecturer on patent law and drafting for the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO).
He typically splits his time between our liaison offices in the US (San Francisco and Boston) and our HQ in London.
Year joined the firm: 2016
