From mobile communications research to global IP diplomacy, Daniel Chew’s career has been shaped by curiosity, connection, and commercial instinct. Now a partner at HLK and Chair of CIPA’s International Liaison Committee, his story is one of strategic thinking and a passion for building strong relationships – across borders, across professions, and across generations.
From PhD to Patent Attorney
Daniel Chew’s path to the patent profession began with an invention. During the first year of his PhD in mobile communications at the University of Surrey, Daniel was preparing to publish a breakthrough in a scientific journal, only to find the university blocked the submission in favour of filing a patent.
“I was frustrated,” he admits, “I just wanted to publish. I had no idea what a patent was, let alone that it could be licensed.” Fast forward a couple of years, and Daniel returned home one day to find a cheque and a letter telling him the university had licensed his patent. Shortly afterwards, the licensee offered him a job, an opportunity he accepted, though only briefly. Determined to pursue a career in the patent profession, he soon moved on. It was the beginning of a journey that would shape his future in Intellectual Property.
Building a Career on His Own Terms
Daniel’s early experiences shaped a mindset that would define his professional approach: one of independence, ambition, and a clear-eyed focus on business development. “I realised quite early on that in private practice, many attorneys inherit clients from retiring partners. I didn’t want to spend my career working only on other people’s clients.”
Determined to build his own practice, Daniel began networking as a trainee, attending events, building connections, and investing time after hours to grow his pipeline. “We talk a lot about the importance of client service, but when you’re the one making promises to new clients, you feel a real responsibility to deliver. That changes how you approach everything.”
After gaining experience at two other London based firms, Daniel joined HLK, where he quickly established his own client base. Before long, nearly all his work came from relationships he had built himself. He’s at his best when out meeting clients or on the conference circuit, listening, learning, and understanding what really drives their business. That hands-on approach, coupled with an instinct for connection, has become his hallmark and one of the keys to his success as a patent attorney.
Business Development as a Mindset
Daniel is a passionate advocate for embedding business development (BD) into the culture of IP firms. “It shouldn’t be something people only do for career progression. It should be a natural part of working in professional services. If you don’t have a network, you don’t have prospects. If you don’t have prospects, you can’t build a practice.”
“Business development takes practice, patience, confidence and resilience. The more you do, the more satisfying it becomes to give our clients the best. Afterall, it’s all about helping clients succeed.”
He’d like to see BD skills offered more formally, particularly to early-career professionals. “Whether you’re in-house or in private practice, soft skills like networking and relationship-building are essential,” he explains.
“At HLK, our attorneys are trained with these client relationships at an early stage in their careers,” he adds. “They continue to build on these skills by working closely with in-house teams, so that together we operate as one highly effective team.”
A President with Global Perspective
It was Daniel’s extensive international network, built through years of active engagement and collaboration within the IP community, that positioned him for his appointment as President of the Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys (CIPA) in 2023, making him the first person of Asian heritage to hold the role. “When I was first approached, I thought it was madness – I was in the middle of growing a busy practice. But I realised I could use my network to help promote CIPA globally.”
During his term, Daniel focused on raising CIPA’s international profile, connecting with sister organisations, patent offices, and industry leaders. One highlight was a meeting with then USPTO Director Kathi Vidal, whose energy and commitment to emerging technologies and diversity left a lasting impression.
He also undertook international missions across the USA and Asia, representing CIPA at major IP events and fostering collaborations that strengthened the UK’s standing in the global IP community.
Strengthening the UK’s Voice Post-Brexit
Now Chair of CIPA’s International Liaison Committee, Daniel continues to ensure the UK profession remains visible and competitive on the world stage. A key focus has been demystifying the UK’s continued representation rights before the Unified Patent Court (UPC), which many overseas organisations initially misunderstood post-Brexit.
“The narrative has shifted,” he says. “At first we were explaining that UK-based European Patent Attorneys have rights of representation before the UPC. Now we’re showing that we are actively representing parties before the UPC and doing it well.”
Leadership, Visability and Representation
Daniel made history as CIPA’s first Asian President, a fact he initially found uncomfortable. “I hated it, to be honest. I’ve lived in the UK for 26 years, and it didn’t feel significant to me. But then someone from an ethnic minority background came up to me and said, ‘It made me believe it’s achievable.’ That really changed my view.”
He now sees it as a platform to inspire others and to demonstrate what leadership in the profession can look like.
Advice to Future IP Leaders
Daniel’s advice to young professionals is simple: get involved. “Be open-minded. Go to events. Build a network. You never know who you’ll meet or what opportunity might follow.”
He’s also a strong supporter of engaging with professional bodies. “CIPA has 23 committees – there’s something for everyone. It’s a great way to give back, learn, and build your presence in the profession.”
A Dolphin Trainer in Disguise?
Outside of work, Daniel loves hiking (most recently at Torrey Pines, California) and long walks near his home in St Albans. One of his most memorable business trips? A prospective client cutting straight to the chase: “Daniel, we know why you’re here. Just tell us what you can offer.” He laughs, that directness, he says, was a dream for someone who appreciates straight talking.
And while he once joked that, 21 years ago, back then hardly anyone knew what a patent attorney was, telling people his profession was the “ultimate conversation killer,” he’d instead tell curious strangers at bars that he was a dolphin trainer. Who knows, maybe there’s still time for that second career?
Meet Daniel at APAA 2025
Daniel will be attending the Asian Patent Attorneys Association (APAA) 2025 Conference in Kuala Lumpur next month. If you’re also planning to be there and would like to connect, feel free to reach out via LinkedIn or say hello at one of the networking sessions.
Daniel is a partner at HLK, a full-service intellectual property firm that helps clients around the world to protect, exploit, and defend their IP rights. HLK combines patent and trademark attorneys with a legal team to deliver strategic, technically informed advice across all sectors of innovation.
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Some careers are forged by ambition. Others by curiosity. For Joeeta Murphy, it was both. A former research scientist turned top-tier patent attorney, Joeeta blends a deep love of science with a sharp legal mind—bringing decades of insight to the ever-evolving world of life sciences intellectual property.
Now Head of Life Sciences at ip21, Joeeta’s career spans more than 30 years and reflects her unique ability to bridge two complex worlds: cutting-edge science and rigorous intellectual property strategy.
A Scientist at Heart, A Strategist by Choice
Joeeta began her career working on vaccines, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s research. But it was a law A-Level—taken in the evening out of sheer interest—that set her on a new path. “I didn’t want to give up science, but I also really enjoyed the legal side,” she explains. “Becoming a patent attorney allowed me to do both.”
That instinct paid off. Joeeta went on to complete an MSc in IP Management at Queen Mary, London, and qualified as a UK and European Patent Attorney. She now also holds the CIPA Litigation Certificate and is registered to represent clients before the Unified Patent Court (UPC).
But ask her which qualification was the toughest? “Definitely my MPhil in pharmaceutical sciences. It was a pure research degree—I was on my own, designing experiments and trying to make discoveries. That experience gave me huge respect for inventors. It’s what they do every day.”
The Power of Perspective
That scientific empathy has shaped Joeeta’s entire career. Whether advising startups or representing multinationals in high-stakes oppositions, she takes a tailored approach—always grounded in clarity, context, and commercial awareness.
“With startups, the focus is on budget and timing. We work closely to prioritise their innovations, patent filings and avoid early disclosure,” she explains. “With multinationals, it’s about building expansive, global patent portfolios and aligning with long-term product lifecycles.”
It’s a skillset that’s earned her a place on the IAM Strategy 300 list, for the third year running, recognising the world’s leading IP strategists.
A Career Highlight: Uncovering Hidden Value
Among her many successes, one case stands out. After reviewing a client’s large patent portfolio following an acquisition, Joeeta identified a buried platform patent with huge potential. “Several competitors were already in clinical trials using that technology—it was a clear case of infringement.”
Her work led to successful EPO oppositions, strategic pre-litigation moves, and ultimately a lucrative licensing deal for the client. “It was high pressure but incredibly rewarding. That’s when the job is really fun.”
Vision, Leadership and a Global Outlook
As head of ip21’s Life Sciences team, Joeeta combines legal excellence with natural leadership. “It all comes down to organisation and understanding priorities,” she says. She actively mentors young innovators through initiatives like the Trinity Bradfield Prize, and sits on the CIPA Council, helping shape the profession’s future.
For her, the best IP strategies are deeply embedded in a company’s broader goals. “Your IP should evolve with your business—identifying what to protect, where, and why. Freedom to operate and patentability searches are vital. So is knowing when to prune a portfolio.”
She’s also a passionate advocate for staying up to date. “Technology is always moving—so we have to move with it. That means reading constantly, attending conferences, and learning from our clients, who are often the real subject-matter experts.”
Life Outside IP: Snorkels, Spices and Cambridgeshire Walks
When she’s not in the courtroom or mentoring PhD students, Joeeta unwinds with cooking, countryside walks, and the occasional snorkelling adventure. “I’ve tried windsurfing—failed miserably,” she laughs. “But snorkelling in the Red Sea and in Key West, Florida was incredible.”
Her favourite recipe? A Bengali classic: chilli chicken, rich with spices and colour. “I love cooking with my children. They’ve picked up my tips and cook on their own now, which is brilliant.”
As for her go-to walk? “Around the Wimpole Estate in Cambridgeshire. It’s beautiful, and not too steep,” she says, smiling. “We also love visiting the Lake District and enjoy the circular walks and mountain scenery.”
A Lasting Legacy
Looking ahead, Joeeta is optimistic. “AI will transform drug discovery. Biotech innovation continues to accelerate. I want our Life Sciences team at ip21 to be at the forefront—offering the kind of support that makes a real difference to our clients’ success.”
And with Joeeta leading the way, there’s no doubt they will be.
Connect with Joeeta
If you’d like to follow more of Joeeta’s work or connect professionally, you can find her on LinkedIn. To explore the innovative IP services offered by her team, visit ip21 Ltd—a firm at the forefront of life sciences and biotech intellectual property.
PS: PatWorld works closely with leading Patent Attorneys like Joeeta Murphy to provide professional, reliable patent search services—including Freedom to Operate (FTO), Patentability, and Collection (State-of-the-Art) searches. Learn more.
Behind every ground-breaking biotech innovation lies a carefully crafted intellectual property strategy—and few understand this better than Elizabeth Pond, Partner at Sagittarius IP. With a background in biochemistry and a passion for helping biotech companies navigate complex patent landscapes, Elizabeth has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of biotech IP. From the rise of gene therapies to the challenges posed by the Unified Patent Court, her expertise offers invaluable insights for start-ups and established firms alike. Join us as we we explore her career, insights, and the exciting developments shaping the biotech IP landscape.
A Journey from Biochemistry to Intellectual Property
For many patent attorneys, the journey into intellectual property begins with a love for science. Elizabeth Pond, Partner at Sagittarius IP, is no exception. With an undergraduate degree in biochemistry, she was fascinated by the intricacies of scientific discovery but found that lab work wasn’t for her. Instead, she sought a career that combined her passion for science with a different skill set which led her to patent law.
“Patent law allowed me to stay connected to the science I loved while developing a completely new skill set,” Elizabeth explains. After hearing about the profession at a careers fair, she pursued a master’s degree in intellectual property at Queen Mary University of London, solidifying her path in IP. This journey ultimately led her to Sagittarius IP, where she has been shaping biotech patent strategies since 2011.
A Career Defined by Specialisation and Growth
Elizabeth’s tenure at Sagittarius IP has been marked by both personal and firm-wide milestones. One of the most pivotal moments in her career came during her training when she had the opportunity to work in-house at a major pharmaceutical company. This experience gave her first-hand insight into the IP challenges big pharma faces, informing her approach to private practice.
“It was a defining moment,” she recalls. “I gained a deeper understanding of the complexities of pharma IP and, when the secondment ended, I considered whether to move in-house or continue in private practice. I chose private practice because I wanted to develop long-term client relationships and help shape their IP strategies.”
Fast forward to 2024, and Elizabeth has now stepped into a leadership role as a Partner at Sagittarius IP. With the firm expanding, including the recent launch of a London office, she sees exciting opportunities ahead: “Sagittarius IP is growing, and our expertise in life sciences means we’re well-placed to support the next generation of biotech innovation.”
Expertise in Gene Therapies and Biotech IP
The innovation happening in cell and gene therapy is phenomenal, these technologies involve complex IP strategies because there’s so much innovation in a single product. It’s an incredibly exciting space to work in.
With her background in biochemistry and a keen interest in gene and cellular therapies, Elizabeth has built a specialism in some of the most cutting-edge areas of biotechnology.
“The innovation happening in cell and gene therapy is phenomenal,” she says. “These technologies involve complex IP strategies because there’s so much innovation in a single product. It’s an incredibly exciting space to work in.”
Her work involves crafting tailored patent strategies that not only protect biotech breakthroughs but also make them attractive to investors. With Sagittarius IP’s deep-rooted expertise in life sciences, the firm advises companies of all sizes—from early-stage start-ups to major pharmaceutical players—on how to best position their IP portfolios for commercial success.
A Client-Centric Approach to IP Strategy
Sagittarius IP’s reputation as a leading life sciences IP firm is built on two key pillars: specialisation and service. The firm’s exclusive focus on life sciences ensures that its attorneys have a deep understanding of the industry’s unique challenges.
“We work with clients at every stage of development and investment,” Elizabeth explains. “Because of that, we know what big pharma and investors look for in a strong IP portfolio. We help start-ups align their patents with those expectations while also supporting larger companies with strategic filings and due diligence.”
Flexibility is another key differentiator. “We tailor our service to our clients’ needs. Whether they require a specific reporting format or have unique strategic goals, we adapt to ensure they receive the best possible support.”
The Future of Sagittarius IP and the Cambridge Office
As Sagittarius IP continues to grow, Elizabeth is focused on expanding the firm’s presence in Cambridge—a hub for biotech innovation. “Cambridge is a hotbed of activity in life sciences, with new research parks and lab spaces opening all the time,” she says. “Our goal is to integrate ourselves into this thriving ecosystem and support its growth.”
With an increasing number of mid-sized biotech firms opting to remain independent rather than being acquired by big pharma, she sees a shift in how IP services will be provided. “Biotechs are standing on their own longer, which means they’re building in-house IP teams. The challenge for us is to ensure that we provide services that complement their internal capabilities. Our experience working both in-house and in private practice uniquely positions us to do that.”
Trends, Challenges, and the Unified Patent Court
The introduction of the Unified Patent Court (UPC) has brought new considerations for IP strategy in Europe. While still in its early days, Elizabeth sees both opportunities and risks. “It’s an exciting development, but companies are still figuring out the best way to integrate the UPC into their filing strategies,” she notes. “We advise clients on how to balance early adoption with risk mitigation, such as using divisional filings to keep options open.”
Beyond regulatory shifts, staying ahead of scientific trends is crucial. Sagittarius IP fosters a strong internal knowledge-sharing culture, ensuring that all attorneys within the firm remain up to date on the latest biotech and pharma developments. But ultimately it is their clients that are the true experts in their technologies, “our role is to ask the right questions to make sure we understand their innovations and ensure that they are fully protected.”
Advice for Start-ups and Aspiring Patent Attorneys
For start-ups looking to protect their biotech innovations, Elizabeth emphasises the importance of long-term strategy. “Patents are locked in early, so it’s vital to have a clear vision of what sets your product apart and where you want to take it. A well-thought-out IP strategy can make all the difference in attracting investment and achieving commercial success.”
For those considering a career in IP, her advice is simple: persistence. “The path to becoming a patent attorney is challenging, but it’s worth it. Keep learning, build your network, and don’t be discouraged by setbacks.”
A Passion for Science, Law, and… Gardening?
Outside of her work, Elizabeth finds relaxation in gardening—specifically, on her allotment. “It’s a great way to unwind,” she says. “I love growing vegetables, though my 3-and-a-half-year-old sometimes has other plans—like pulling them up before they’re ready!”
As she embarks on this next phase of her career at Sagittarius IP, Elizabeth is excited about the firm’s future and the role she will play in shaping biotech IP strategy for years to come. “It’s an incredible time for innovation, and I’m proud to be part of a team that helps bring ground-breaking technologies to life.”
For more information about Sagittarius IP, visit their website: Sagittarius IP.
Connect with Elizabeth Pond on LinkedIn: Elizabeth Pond.
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