How I can help your business

• Advise on patent protection strategies for biotechnology innovations, including biologics and advanced therapies - Guide you through SPCs and patent term extension to manage exclusivity and lifecycle planning
• Develop and coordinate global IP strategies across multiple jurisdictions

Overview & Expertise

Gareth Williams is a Partner and Head of Legal Practice based in Cambridge. He has over 25 years’ experience in intellectual property, advising clients across the life sciences sector. He is a European Patent Attorney, Chartered Patent Attorney (UK) and UPC Representative.

Gareth’s technical background is in human molecular biology and genetics, with a doctorate funded as part of the Human Genome Project. His practice focuses on biotechnology, including CRISPR, RNAi, genetically modified organisms, diagnostics and screening methods. He also advises clients working with therapeutic antibodies and proteins, stem cells, pharmaceutical formulations, and research tools. 

He advises on patent term extension and loss of exclusivity for both biologics and small molecule pharmaceuticals, and coordinates SPC filing programmes across Europe. His work also includes infringement matters, freedom to operate analyses and due diligence on complex IP portfolios, providing clients with clear guidance when investing in or acquiring IP assets.

Gareth has acted before the Unified Patent Court in infringement and revocation proceedings. He also serves as Head of Legal Practice at Marks & Clerk LLP and is a director of PAMIA Limited, a mutual providing professional indemnity insurance to the IP profession. 

Client Work & Case Experience

• Life sciences sector — coordinated global filing programmes for siRNA therapeutics, maintaining consistency while addressing differing national patentability requirements
• Pharmaceutical companies — advised on the selection of appropriate basic patents for Europe-wide SPC filing programmes and coordinated multi-jurisdictional filings