Closing the gender gap in innovation

This article examines the persistent gender gap across science, innovation and patenting, and why representation matters at every stage of the innovation ecosystem.

It considers the structural barriers affecting women in R&D and IP, and outlines practical steps that firms, institutions and leaders can take to support more inclusive participation and decision-making.

Laura Fè

Director, Patents

The future of Battery Innovation: Smarter IP Strategy

This article explores growing interest in silicon anodes as a next-generation battery technology and the technical challenges surrounding their development. It also considers the expanding battery patent landscape and the role of patents and trade secrets in protecting innovation in this space.

Before you file:

The value of Prior Art Searching

This article explains what counts as prior art, how patent searches are carried out, and why they remain a critical step before filing. It also highlights the strategic value of searching, reducing wasted cost to identifying freedom-to-operate issues and shaping a stronger filing strategy.

Sufficiency and inventive step in mathematics-based patents

This article considers the challenges of patenting mathematics-based inventions in Europe and the UK, with a focus on sufficiency and inventive step. It highlights common drafting issues and outlines how careful disclosure can support stronger, more defensible patent protection.

EU motion marks:

Key lessons on registrability

This article reviews a recent General Court decision on motion marks under the EUTMR, highlighting the high threshold for distinctiveness and the technical function exclusion. It also considers how non-functional visual elements may influence registrability.

Company News

Responsible AI at Murgitroyd

This article introduces Murgitroyd’s Responsible AI Framework and sets out how it underpins the firm’s approach to using AI in patent and trade mark practice. It outlines the governance principles, operational safeguards and expert oversight that support responsible adoption in a legal services environment.

Barry Moore takes on Patents leadership role

This article announces Barry Moore’s appointment as Managing Director of Murgitroyd’s patents practice and highlights the firm’s strategic focus on client relationships, talent and technology. It reflects Murgitroyd’s continued commitment to commercially informed patent advice across the innovation lifecycle.

Events & Webinars

Highlights of our most recent Webinar
 

FinTech innovation is evolving rapidly, particularly in areas such as artificial intelligence, blockchain and software-driven financial services. In this webinar, Clare Collins of Murgitroyd and Min Xu of Jingtian & Gongcheng examine how FinTech inventions are assessed by the European Patent Office and the China National Intellectual Property Administration.

The session highlights key differences in patentability approach, including the treatment of computer-implemented inventions, business methods and mathematical models. It also touches on wider filing trends and practical considerations for applicants seeking stronger protection in both Europe and China.

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