Webinar: Patentability – novelty, inventive step, industrial application facilitated by Beck Greener

Overview

This webinar provides a clear and practical introduction to the core principles of patent protection. We will break down the key requirements for patentability, including novelty, inventive step, industrial application and excluded subject matter. The session will also explain the fundamental “bargain with the state,” where inventors receive a time‑limited monopoly in exchange for fully disclosing their invention. We will explore the concept of sufficiency: what must be included in a patent to enable others to reproduce the invention and obtain its benefits? Attendees will gain a solid understanding of the tests for what makes an invention protectable.

Speaker

Catherine Jewell, Partner, Beck Greener

Catherine is a chemist by training, completing her MChem, PhD and post‑doctoral research before moving into the Intellectual Property profession. With nearly two decades of experience, she specialises in applying patent and trade mark law across the chemical, pharmaceutical and materials sectors, supporting clients through drafting, prosecution and strategic IP advice. Catherine also leads Beck Greener’s outreach programme, aimed at widening access to IP careers. As a Visiting Lecturer at UCL and Imperial, she equips future entrepreneurs with essential IP knowledge. Outside work, she enjoys watching rugby, as well as cycling, running and practising her own brand of “destructive gardening”.

Dr James Stones, Partner, Beck Greener

James read Chemistry at Imperial College London, completing his degree and PhD there. James joined the patent profession in 1996, and as head of the BG Chemistry team, has a broad client base spanning chemistry, pharmaceuticals and chemical engineering. He has worked with Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. for over 25 years, including e.g., cryogenic air distillation, gas purification, carbon capture, and hydrogen production. James drafts and prosecutes patent applications, and handles opposition and freedom to operate matters. Through his lectures at UCL, Univ. Exeter and Imperial College, James shares IP knowledge with the next generation of entrepreneurs and inventors.

The material presented has not been peer-reviewed. Any opinions are the presenter’s own and do not necessarily represent those of IChemE. The information is given in good faith but without any liability on the part of IChemE.

Time

12:30 - 13:30 BST.

Software

The presentation will be delivered via Microsoft Teams. We recommend downloading the app from the Microsoft website, rather than using the web portal.