Sophie has a strong enthusiasm for science and its real-world applications, cultivated through her university studies, academic research, and industry experience. Her proactive learning style and a meticulous attention to detail makes her well-suited for a career as a patent attorney.
Sophie joined HLK as a Trainee Patent Attorney specialising in Chemistry and Life Sciences following the completion of her PhD in Chemistry from the University of Cambridge, through a prestigious AstraZeneca studentship award. Her PhD research focused on the synthesis of next-generation therapeutics, including PROTACs, and selective kinase inhibition. Additionally, she gained biological research experience at Cancer Research UK, where she tested therapeutics in vitro.
Prior to her PhD, she completed an MChem in Chemistry with Industrial Experience at the University of Manchester, graduating with First Class honours, and achieving the highest overall mark in the Industrial Experience programme. During her degree, she developed a comprehensive understanding of various fields within chemistry, particularly organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, and biochemistry. To expand her scientific knowledge, Sophie spent a year as a placement student at GlaxoSmithKline in the Medicinal Chemistry team, which provided her with an insight into the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors. It was during this time that she first recognized the importance of intellectual property in research and development, inspiring her to pursue a career in IP.
Outside of scientific research Sophie is a keen rock climber and boulders both indoors and outdoors across the country.
