Seminar information

Thursday 20 November 2025
1.30pm-5pm
Followed by networking & drinks
D Young & Co LLP, 3 Noble Street, London, EC2V 7BQ

Highly respected and influential practitioners in IP, R&D tax, and investment will share practical insights from their extensive experience, and explore ways in which intellectual property and related considerations can support and commercialise the development of cutting-edge research.

Talks and a panel discussion will be followed by networking and drinks.

Talks

Patent strategy for techbio innovation
Robbie Berryman, Partner, D Young & Co LLP

An overview of what types of patents are being filed in the techbio field, advantages of patenting in this space, strategies for deciding when to file a patent application, and when other forms of protection may be more appropriate.

IP protection for data sets and computational models (other than patents)
Peter FitzPatrick, Partner, Powell Gilbert LLP

Beyond patents, what IP protection is available for data sets and computational models? A discussion of the role of confidential information (including trade secrets), database rights and copyright works in protecting data sets and computational models.

Advanced therapies funding: engaging with and pitching to investors
Sven Kili, Partner, Saisei Ventures

An overview of the current advanced therapies investment ecosystem and outlook for the near future, with tips and advice on engaging with investors, and developing and presenting pitches.

Tax considerations for techbio companies: R&D tax relief and Patent Box
Jenny Tragner (Partner) & Sahdia Raja (Senior Tax Manager), S&W Group

After a period of significant change and uncertainty for R&D tax relief in the UK, this session will explore what recent changes mean for techbio businesses, including key opportunities and managing risk against a backdrop of increased scrutiny from HMRC. We will also provide an overview of the UK Patent Box regime and how it applies to techbio companies. We’ll cover eligibility criteria, how profits from patented therapeutics and technologies can benefit from a reduced 10% tax rate, and how the scheme complements R&D tax relief. We’ll also walk through practical examples and key steps in accessing the Patent Box regime.

Panel discussion and Q&A

Key business considerations for early stage techbio innovators
Chaired by Jennifer O’Farrell, Partner, D Young & Co LLP

Our expert speakers discuss the key drivers behind techbio business decisions and give an insight into their experiences in supporting techbio businesses in their journey towards commercialisation of their innovation and beyond.

Speakers

Jennifer O'Farrell
Partner, Patent Attorney, D Young & Co LLP

Jennifer specialises in immunology, molecular biology, biotechnology and biochemistry. She prosecutes and defends patents before the European Patent Office and UK Intellectual Property Office, coordinates global portfolios, and advises on strategy, freedom to operate, and supplementary protection certificates. Active in the biotech community, she sits on the BIA’s Cell & Gene Therapy Advisory Committee, speaks at industry events, and is recognised for translating complex science into clear, actionable IP guidance.

Robbie Berryman
Partner, Patent Attorney, D Young & Co LLP

Robbie is a UK Chartered and European Patent Attorney with expertise in computing, electronics, machine learning, and software. He leads the D Young & Co team that provides patent drafting and prosecution services to the leading British semiconductor design house whose processors underpin the modern world.

Robbie and Jennifer have collaborated in advising on patents relating to the application of computing and electronics solutions to life sciences problems.

Sven Kili
Partner, Saisei Ventures

Sven is a key opinion leader in healthcare and biotechnology with 20+ years’ experience, from NHS surgeon to leading the development and commercialisation of pioneering cell and gene therapies. He is a partner at therapeutic venture investment firm Saisei Ventures, heads Sven Kili Consulting Ltd, and has served as Chief Development Officer for the Centre for Commercialisation of Regenerative Medicine and OmniaBio. Active on industry boards including BIA CGTAC, ISCT, and ARM, he also holds a visiting chair at UCL, where he guides a postgraduate program in CGT manufacturing and commercialisation. Sven is dedicated to advancing regenerative medicine through innovation and strategic collaboration.

Peter FitzPatrick
Partner, Powell Gilbert LLP

Peter is a partner at Powell Gilbert and heads the firm’s Dublin office. A multi-jurisdictional IP lawyer, he advises on patents, FRAND, licensing, copyright, database rights, trade marks, and plant breeder’s rights. He has substantial experience in co-ordinating cross-border litigation, with expertise before the Unified Patent Court and English Courts. Formerly a software developer/architect, he combines tech insight with legal strategy across diverse sectors ranging from IT and electronics to medical devices and pharmaceuticals.

Jenny Tragner
Partner, S&W Group

Jenny is a chartered accountant and tax specialist with over 20 years of experience. She advises corporate clients on R&D tax reliefs, particularly complex cases ranging from proactive advice on structuring R&D projects and expenditure through to dispute resolution. Jenny has worked with R&D intensive businesses from a broad range of sectors, ranging from university spin-outs, to fast growth technology businesses to many of the UK’s leading innovators. She works with both business owners and investors to manage risk and achieve growth ambitions. Jenny provides transparent and practical tax advice, helping business navigate this increasingly complex specialist area.

Sahdia Raja
Senior Tax Manager, S&W Group

Sahdia is a corporate tax incentives specialist with over 10 years’ experience helping businesses to improve their cash flow by accessing various incentives including R&D and Patent Box. Sahdia’s background in accounting and corporate tax together with scientific research enables her to align with both technical and financial teams to facilitate and optimise incentive claims and elections. She works closely with companies in various industries to help them unlock significant tax savings on profits derived from patented technologies. With deep expertise in aligning IP strategy with commercial outcomes, Sahdia supports clients in navigating Patent Box eligibility, integrating it with R&D tax relief, and maximising value from their innovation pipeline.