Dr Joanna Peak

I am a Partner with Boult and work with a diverse range of clients in the biotechnology and life sciences sector.

My clients range from universities and SMEs through to multinational pharmaceutical companies. I assist my clients with patent matters spanning many different areas of biotechnology. These include therapeutic antibodies, immuno-oncology, gene editing, stem cell therapies and nutritional products.

I have a scientific background in translational research having completed a PhD at the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) prior to entering the IP profession. My time at the ICR gave me first-hand experience of the drug development process and the challenges faced by those working in this field. The ultimate goal of bringing successful treatments to the market remains important to me and I feel that my background in research assists me greatly in aligning my clients’ patent strategy with their clinical and commercial objectives. In this regard, I am experienced at patent drafting, prosecution and advising my clients with respect to freedom to operate and infringement issues.

I also enjoy representing my clients in contentious proceedings before the European Patent Office. For several years, I have successfully defended my clients’ patents and challenged third party patents before the EPO’s opposition divisions and Boards of Appeal. My cases are often complex from both a technical and legal standpoint and I enjoy working closely with my clients throughout the process to try to achieve the desired result.

I am supported in my work by my biotech and pharma colleagues, and it is a privilege to work alongside such talented individuals. We regularly share thoughts and ideas and I feel that our collaborative approach is of real benefit to our clients. It also provides a strong environment for training and supervision, and I find it very rewarding sharing my experiences so as to support others in their career development.

“The ultimate goal of bringing successful treatments to the market remains important to me and I feel that my background in research assists me greatly in aligning my clients’ patent strategy with their clinical and commercial objectives.”