Eliot Ward

Eliot is a highly valued partner at Mewburn Ellis and a key driver within the Life Sciences team. With a reputation for driving complex projects from inception to completion, he works with a diverse range of clients, from innovative startups to multinational corporations worldwide.

In 2023, Eliot successfully led the firm’s adoption of the unitary patent package, a landmark initiative that involved the development of new IT programmes, workflow design, internal training seminars, and a suite of client-facing materials, including articles, web tools, and videos. This success has propelled Eliot to lead another vital project—optimising the firm’s Information Disclosure Statement (IDS) procedures. This initiative, which included standardised documentation, streamlined workflows, and comprehensive internal training, was rolled out in October 2024.

On the business development front, Eliot has played a pivotal role in high-value retender pitches, including a successful bid to retain and expand work with a major US multinational. He has consistently delivered excellent results, particularly in contentious EPO opposition cases, and recently secured the firm’s retender for this US client.

Eliot is also dedicated to expanding the firm’s presence in emerging business ecosystems. Notably, he identified a strategic opportunity at the BioInnovation Institute (BII) in Copenhagen, Denmark, a renowned biotechnology accelerator. Through establishing a Mewburn Ellis residency at BII, Eliot has facilitated collaboration with burgeoning start-ups and successfully onboarded new clients from this dynamic ecosystem.

Further cementing his leadership credentials, Eliot has transformed the firm’s microbiome campaign from a niche initiative into one of the firm’s most prominent subject matter areas. By leading a team of younger attorneys, he has inspired them to engage in thought leadership, writing articles, attending conferences, and proactively approaching prospective clients. 

The microbiome campaign has since gained significant traction, positioning Mewburn Ellis at the forefront of this rapidly advancing field of biotechnology.

Through his innovative approach, strategic foresight, and strong leadership, Eliot continues to drive growth, influence, and success at Mewburn Ellis.

Opposition highlights

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

EP3109258 for Janssen Vaccines. Successful opposition against ID Biomedical and GSK to help clear the way in the RSV vaccine space.  The patent was revoked for insufficient disclosure.

[Undisclosed]  Major multi-party opposition defending a European patent covering a dosage regimen for a blockbuster monoclonal antibody. Coordinated opposition proceedings at the EPO with national litigation in the Netherlands and supported our client in ultimately reaching a favourable settlement with all ten opponents.

EP3218474 for Danisco. Successful opposition against Henkel AG, leading to broad claims being finally revoked without need for appeal.

Recommendations

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