Trainee Patent Attorney – AI & Software – Leeds Office

Page White Farrer; Leeds; Hybrid; GBP 27,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working

25 days holiday

Company pension

Income protection

Social events

Job summary

Page White Farrer in Leeds is seeking a Trainee Patent Attorney specializing in AI and software to join our Leeds office. You will work directly with partners and clients from day one, handling inventions in AI, software, data science and cryptography.

The training offers early responsibility, mentoring, and exposure to UK, European and international patent work, with a route to qualification as a UK and European Patent Attorney.

Qualifications

• Experience with machine learning, computer vision, natural language processing or high-performance computing.
• First-class degree preferred; master's/PhD advantageous.
• Degree with substantial computing content accepted.

Responsibilities

• Identify and analyse inventions in AI and software.
• Draft and prosecute patent applications in the UK/EU and internationally.
• Advise on patentability and infringement issues.
• Contribute to client IP strategies aligned with commercial objectives.
• Develop technical, legal and commercial skills during training.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Understanding of AI and software tech

Attention to detail

Collaboration

Tech-law interest

Education

Computer Science degree

Master's degree or PhD advantageous

Job description

Page White Farrer, Trainee Patent Attorney - AI & Software - Leeds Office

Page White Farrer is a specialist boutique firm of UK and European patent attorneys. We focus on deep technology and work closely with innovative businesses ranging from ambitious start-ups to some of the world’s most recognised technology companies, helping them protect valuable innovations in highly competitive markets. Our size is our strength. Trainees work directly with experienced partners and attorneys from day one, gaining responsibility and client exposure that can be difficult to find in larger organisations. We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional service, building long-term client relationships, and creating a supportive environment in which talented people can thrive.

The Role

We have an exciting opportunity for a Trainee Patent Attorney - AI & Software to join our Leeds office.

Working directly with partners and clients from the outset, you will help protect innovations in artificial intelligence, software, data science, cryptography and next-generation computing technologies for organisations ranging from ambitious start-ups to some of the world’s leading technology companies.

Your work will include identifying and analysing inventions, drafting and prosecuting patent applications in the UK, Europe and internationally, advising on patentability and infringement issues, and contributing to the development of intellectual property strategies that support clients’ commercial objectives.

As a boutique firm, we offer early responsibility, direct client exposure and close mentoring throughout your training. From day one, you will gain experience across a wide range of technologies and industries, while developing the technical, legal and commercial skills required to qualify as a UK and European Patent Attorney.

The technologies you will encounter include machine learning models, generative AI, autonomous vehicles, distributed systems, cryptography, cybersecurity, software architectures, and blockchain technologies.

About You

You will have, or be expecting, a Computer Science degree, or another degree with substantial computing content. A first-class degree is preferred, and a master’s degree or PhD would be particularly advantageous.

We are especially keen to hear from candidates who can engage confidently with mathematically demanding computer science material, such as research papers in machine learning, computer vision, natural language processing, computer architecture or advanced computing systems. Relevant experience might include research, dissertation or practical development work involving machine learning or high-performance computing.

You will be intellectually curious, enjoy analysing complex technologies and have excellent written communication skills.

Successful candidates will demonstrate:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• The ability to understand complex computer-implemented technologies quickly.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality work.
• A collaborative approach and enthusiasm for working closely with clients and colleagues.
• An interest in the intersection of technology, innovation, law and business.

Training Package

Trainees at Page White Farrer benefit from a comprehensive structured training programme with generous study and revision support and a choice of completing the Postgraduate Certificate in Intellectual Property Law, gaining exemption from the UK foundation examinations, at one of:

• Bournemouth University
• Brunel University London
• Queen Mary University of London

You will receive close mentoring from experienced attorneys and support throughout the qualification process.

Benefits & Hybrid Working Arrangements

We offer the opportunity to join a supportive team and a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Hybrid working (work any 2 days in the office each week)
• 25 days' holiday, increasing by one day each year after 3 years' service to a maximum of 30 days per annum, plus an additional day at Christmas and for volunteering
• Company pension scheme
• Income protection
• Opportunity to participate in regular social, sporting and community events throughout the year

Please Note

Right to work: You must have the right to work in the UK. We are unable to offer any form of sponsorship.

Agencies: We are not using agencies at this time. No fee will be payable in the event of any introductions.

• Areas of Specialism: Artificial Intelligence, Electronics, Electrical Engineering, Physics
• Location: Based in our Leeds office with 3 days working from home each week.