Eliot Ward

Eliot handles a diverse client portfolio spanning the life sciences sector and a growing practice in the cross-over space between physics and biology.  A skilled patent prosecutor, Eliot also has wide experience of drafting patent applications on breakthrough technologies, as well as leading offensive and defensive opposition proceedings post-grant.  Eliot is also experienced in handling Freedom to Operate projects and in performing due diligence, which have led to the successful completion of high value transactions and investment rounds.

Areas of Expertise

• Microbiome
• Immunology – including cancer immunotherapies and autoimmunity
• Diagnostics
• Gene therapy
• Antibody therapies
• Industrial production and purification of biomolecules such as antibodies and industrial enzymes
• Medical devices
• Large molecule analytics

Clients

Eliot works with biopharma companies, multinational biotech corporations, biotech start-ups, overseas attorneys, UK universities and spin-outs.

Background

Eliot has a degree in natural sciences from Cambridge University, majoring in pharmacology. After graduating, he spent two years researching the biochemistry of innate human receptors – first at Oxford University and then at Imperial College London. His PhD is from University College London, which involved developing gene therapies for autoimmunity. He joined Mewburn Ellis LLP in 2011, qualifying as a European Patent Attorney in 2015 and a Chartered Patent Attorney in 2016. He joined the partnership in 2019.

Opposition highlights

Eliot has worked on multiple opposition cases across the life sciences sector.

Recommendations

Eliot has been listed as a recommended lawyer in the 2021 edition of The Legal 500.