Navigating the Complex World of SPCs – Meet the IP Professional: Lawrence Cullen

When Lawrence Cullen discusses Supplementary Protection Certificates (SPCs[i]), he does so with the clarity and passion of someone who has spent decades at the heart of the system—and who still finds it intellectually rewarding. After a distinguished career at the UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO), where he became one of the UK’s leading experts on SPCs, Lawrence has launched a consultancy to help others navigate the intricacies of life sciences IP.

From Chemistry Labs to IP Policy

Lawrence’s journey into IP began in the lab. Originally from Ireland, he studied industrial chemistry there at the University of Limerick. He then went on to complete a PhD at the University of Sheffield. A research career followed, taking him to UK. France, Germany, and the United States. It was during this time—working on a some patents at the University of Kentucky—that his interest in IP was sparked.

“I read my original proposal to the university for the patent and then saw the final patent application,” he recalls. “They were both describing the same thing but in completely different ways. I found that transformation fascinating.”

After returning to the UK with a young family and looking for a more stable career path, Lawrence applied to the UKIPO—and never looked back.

Building a Reputation in SPCs

Lawrence spent just under three decades at the UKIPO. Initially as a patent examiner, then working in policy and trademarks en route to becoming a Deputy Director and Hearing Officer in patents. His experience spans petrochemicals, cosmetics. pharmaceuticals and biotech, but it’s his specialism in SPCs that has become his hallmark.

“What makes SPCs so challenging is that they sit at the intersection of patent law and regulatory law,” he explains. “They’re not just a patent extension. They’re a sui generis right—unique in legal terms—and require a good understanding of both systems.”

As a Hearing Officer, Lawrence was responsible for reviewing disputed SPC applications. He often found himself deciding issues involving the UK’s approach to SPC case law for the first time. His decisions, nearly all of which were appealed (and subsequently upheld) helped clarify regulatory grey areas and provided vital guidance in a field where every word of the relevant legislation is scrutinised. 

“It is not surprising that these decisions were nearly always appealed” he says “given the commercial value of the right being sought. Aa single granted SPC could be worth millions. That’s why nearly every one of the 19 articles in the relevant regulation has been argued over and litigated!”

A New Consultancy for a Complex Landscape

Now, Lawrence is offering his specialist knowledge directly to clients through his new consultancy. His goal? To support life sciences businesses, patent attorneys, and legal teams as they deal with complex SPC and pharmaceutical patent issues.

“If someone comes to me and asks, ‘Can I get an SPC based on this patent and this marketing authorisation?’ I can help them assess the options—perhaps even identify strategies they hadn’t considered.”

His expertise is particularly valuable at critical decision points: choosing the right patent to base an SPC on, assessing post-grant amendment possibilities, and anticipating how a granting authority might interpret a borderline case.

“Most people only apply for one SPC in a given matter, so there’s a lot riding on getting it right,” he adds. “My job is to bring clarity and reduce uncertainty.”

Beyond the Patent Office

Lawrence’s consultancy work is already expanding. He supports clients with early-stage planning, responds to refusals, and even helps those opposing SPCs in competitive scenarios. He’s also involved in academic research as a Visiting Scholar at the University of Sheffield, exploring the foundations and future of the SPC system.

His aim is to ensure that clients not only understand how the system works today but are also prepared for the changes ahead.

“We’re entering a more complex regulatory environment—particularly with medical devices and software becoming integral to treatments. That’s going to create new questions around if and how SPCs apply.”

Still Curious, Still Learning

Despite decades in the field, Lawrence’s enthusiasm remains undimmed.

“Every problem is slightly different. I still enjoy the ambiguity. You’re often working on the balance of probabilities, not certainties. That keeps it fresh.”

That curiosity extends beyond the office. When not immersed in SPC regulations, Lawrence is likely to be out walking stretches of the Wales Coast Path. Or, cheering from the stands at rugby games. A recent trip to Australia for the British & Irish Lions tour being a particular highlight.

“Being there and seeing the games in person was incredible. I’ve played the game, coached it, and still find it endlessly fascinating.”

How Lawrence Can Help

If you’re navigating SPCs—whether preparing an application, managing a refusal, or just trying to understand your strategic options—Lawrence is ready to help. With in-dept knowledge of how decisions are made and why, his consultancy offers a rare depth of insight for those operating in the life sciences, pharmaceutical, and biotech sectors.To get in touch with Lawrence or learn more about his services, connect via LinkedIn

[i] What is an SPC?

A Supplementary Protection Certificate (SPC) is an intellectual property right that extends the protection of a patented active ingredient in a pharmaceutical or plant protection product. SPCs compensate for the time it takes to obtain regulatory approval before a product can be sold, offering up to five additional years of market exclusivity after a patent expires. Because they sit at the intersection of patent and regulatory law, SPCs are both legally and commercially significant—yet often misunderstood. This article explores their impact and the unique expertise Lawrence Cullen brings to this space.