Marks & Clerk: Understanding the importance of IP for business in the space sector

This session, presented by Phil Merchant of Marks & Clerk, will provide an introduction to IP and is intended to help innovators and decision makers working in the space sector understand more about this important topic. The session will cover:

• The different types of IP available, including patents and trademarks

• How to protect innovations and products across the space sector upstream and downstream

• The IP registration process

• Understand how the IP rights of others (e.g. others’ patents and branding) might impact your business plan

• Action points to be taken now and in the future to improve your position

Speaker Information

Phil is a European and UK Patent Attorney and advises on the preparation, filing and prosecution of patent applications worldwide. Phil advises clients of all sizes from start-ups to large global organisations on their IP strategy.

Phil has experience in handling patent applications across a variety of technologies across the space ecosystem, with his interest and expertise encompassing both upstream and downstream space sectors.  This includes spacecraft launch systems, payload construction and navigation, space debris mitigation, and deployment of on-board satellite systems such as quantum communications systems, beamforming, encoding, and orbit injection and control. Phil also has experience in many other practice areas, including cutting edge quantum technologies, artificial intelligence/machine learning, distribution of digital content, blockchain, solid state physics, computer interfaces, scientific instrumentation, medical devices and telecommunications.

Before qualifying as a patent attorney, Phil studied Physics at the University of Oxford and obtained a PhD in Condensed Matter Physics from University College London.  He is now a regular speaker and adviser to space accelerators and space clusters across the UK, and is a keen supporter of space sector innovation and emerging businesses.