We are looking for a trainee patent attorney to join our chemistry team in Nottingham.
Potter Clarkson is one of the leading pan-European firms, with staffed offices across the UK, Denmark and Sweden, and more than 90 patent, trade mark and IP professionals, as well as around 115 paralegals and support staff.
The Chemistry team advises leading industrial and technology companies on protecting innovative chemicals and materials, while also working with leading global life sciences and pharmaceutical companies to protect research across the drug development pipeline.
We are seeking someone to join our industrial chemistry team. The team’s work spans consumer goods such as food and personal care products, advanced materials, energy storage, catalysis and sustainable chemical processes. There would also be opportunities to undertake work in the pharmaceutical sector.
Our success is built on a simple formula: we recruit outstanding people and invest heavily in their training and personal development to develop exceptional legal professionals. The firm’s organisation, infrastructure and dedicated support staff give our experts everything they need to apply their skills efficiently and deliver exceptional service to clients.
Training and qualifying as a patent attorney requires hard work and dedication. To excel, you will need strong scientific understanding, excellent language skills and commercial acumen. It may seem daunting, but we will make your training experience varied, challenging and rewarding.
We are committed to promoting a healthy work-life balance and supporting the wellbeing of all our people. We offer a wealth of health and wellbeing benefits and resources, including healthcare, flexible working options, a virtual wellbeing hub, mental health first aiders and a mentorship programme.
If you are ready to join our team, we would love to hear from you. When applying, please provide details of your technical background to help us streamline the application process.
A 2:1 or first-class degree in chemistry or a closely related subject.
Strong technical and scientific knowledge.
Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
Research or industrial experience preferred, though not essential.
A professional manner when liaising with clients and other stakeholders.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Ability to manage and prioritise your own workload.
A high level of attention to detail.
A structured training programme based on an in-house Training Academy and a supportive peer network across the firm to help you succeed.
A fast-paced learning environment paired with increased responsibility as you progress.
Excellent career development opportunities.
A hybrid working policy.
An exciting range of clients and complex patent cases.
A focus on building long-term relationships, including opportunities for networking and business development.
A chance to define your own career goals, with plenty of support along the way – we will do everything we can to help you continue developing even after qualification.
Application Deadline: 15 June 2026
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