Tom is a Partner in our Life Sciences and Chemistry group specialising in biotechnology, therapeutics and diagnostics. Described by clients as an “antibody expert” (IAM Patent 1000, 2020 edition), Tom’s experience includes also includes machine learning and digital health, chemotherapy, biomarkers and infectious diseases. His practice is also strong in the areas of vaccines, next generation sequencing and new uses for known compounds.
Freedom-to-operate opinions and due diligence form a significant part of Tom’s practice, and he is experienced in helping business maximise the value of their IP when seeking to collaborate, to develop products or to sell their portfolio. With a reputation for getting difficult patents granted, Tom is accomplished at representing his clients at oral proceedings and has considerable familiarity with the EPO’s opposition and appeal procedures, both defending and attacking.
His legal expertise has seen him lecture for the AIPLA, the Centre for Commercial Law Studies and at various conferences, and he also leads tutorials on European patent law to students studying for the European Qualifying Examinations. Tom is also happy to provide comments to journalists on the latest legal developments. As part of the industry’s IP Inclusive initiative, Tom co-founded the IP Out support network for LGBT people working in IP.
Tom is cited by a client in the 2017 edition of Managing IP, IP Stars Handbook, as ‘one of the best advocates I have worked with in my 20 years of practice,’ who adds, ‘[his] logical and concise arguments are perfectly tailored to what [IP offices] need to see to make proper decisions’. Other clients say he is ‘incredibly organised’ and ‘picks up complex matters extremely quickly’. Tom is also 'recommended' in the IAM Patent 1000 (2020 edition) and in the Legal 500, 2015.
Tom attended Christ's College, University of Cambridge, where in 2004 he graduated with a BA honours degree in Natural Sciences (Pharmacology). He also undertook an additional part II in Management Studies, which included a management consultancy project at Cambridge Antibody Technology (as it was then), and a master’s in Musical Theatre, which somehow he stills finds time for through his involvement in Sedos, London’s premier amateur theatre company.
Year Joined Firm: c.2006
Education/Alumni: University of Cambridge, Queen Mary University of London
Network Memberships: CIPA, EPI
Last updated 21 October 2021
