Triathlons, Chemistry, and Patents

In this edition of our Meet the IP Professional series, PatWorld is delighted to feature Yann Robin, a Principal Associate and Patent Attorney at Marks & Clerk. With a career spanning over 17 years, Yann has built a reputation for his meticulous approach to intellectual property, combining technical expertise with a deep understanding of client needs. We spoke to Yann about his journey through triathlons, chemistry and patents, the evolving role of foreign languages in patent law, and the importance of tailoring IP strategies to meet diverse client priorities.

Falling into IP: Yann’s Unexpected PathUnlike some who enter the IP profession with a clear vision, Yann’s path was more serendipitous. After completing his postgraduate studies at the University of Strathclyde, Yann began his career at Thomson Derwent, working on patent classification tools. His work involved assigning codes to patents, particularly in the field of chemistry and polymers. This experience sparked his interest in patents and naturally led him to pursue a career as a patent attorney.

“I didn’t have a lifelong ambition to work in IP; I simply followed the opportunities my career presented,” Yann reflects. “But I’m glad I did. It’s a fascinating and rewarding field.”

The Power of Languages in IP Practice

As a native French speaker, Yann’s language skills have long been an asset in his practice. When he started in the profession in 2007, proficiency in a second language—particularly one of the EPO’s official languages—was highly valued. This was because access to machine-generated English translations was not as widespread as it is today.

While machine translation tools have advanced dramatically, Yann highlights that fluency in foreign languages remains invaluable in certain circumstances. “There are still instances where a precise understanding of a foreign language is essential,” he explains. For example, a recent freedom-to-operate analysis required Yann to review a French competitor’s EP patent and the associated French prior art. In this case, subtle linguistic nuances in the claims and prior art documents meant machine translations could not be solely relied upon. Yann’s fluency in French allowed him to provide his client with the clarity needed to make a sound commercial decision.

Although machine translations will likely continue to improve, Yann believes there will always be circumstances where working with the original language is indispensable. The subtleties of technical and legal terms often defy perfect translation, making human expertise a necessity.

Tailoring IP Strategies to Diverse Client NeedsYann’s client base is diverse, ranging from individual innovators and start-ups to SMEs and multinational corporations. This breadth of experience has reinforced his belief that no two clients are the same. “The most critical point is to first understand the client’s situation and commercial goals, both short-term and long-term,” he says.

He recalls a client, a local SME specialising in cancer diagnostics, who successfully secured a significant round of funding. Their robust patent portfolio, developed with Yann’s guidance over a decade, played a key role in this achievement. This example underscores the importance of aligning IP strategy with a company’s growth trajectory and commercial objectives.

Yann emphasises that budget constraints often shape the IP strategies of start-ups and SMEs. He and his team at Marks & Clerk address this by offering tailored solutions, including a dedicated Start-up Offering and access to IP Audits to help businesses get a cost-effective start on their IP journey.

Sustainable Innovation: A Personal and Professional Interest

Sustainability is a growing area of importance in IP. I find it exciting both technologically and because it aligns with my belief that we need to find solutions to the environmental challenges we face.

 

Combining his professional expertise with personal values, Yann is actively involved in Marks & Clerk’s Sustainable Materials Group. This initiative focuses on supporting clients developing eco-friendly and innovative materials. “Sustainability is a growing area of importance in IP,” Yann explains. “I find it exciting both technologically and because it aligns with my belief that we need to find solutions to the environmental challenges we face.”

Building Long-Term RelationshipsFor Yann, building trusted, long-term relationships with clients is fundamental. “Our job is to advise as best we can, and that means understanding the people behind the businesses,” he notes. Regular dialogue and staying attuned to a client’s evolving needs enable him to deliver advice that is not only legally sound but also commercially practical.

Advice for Aspiring IP ProfessionalsFor those considering a career in intellectual property, Yann offers honest and practical advice: “Be patient and stay humble. It takes time to develop the technical, legal, and client-facing skills needed to become truly independent as a patent attorney. You may come into the profession with an impressive academic background, but you’ll need to embrace the learning process, sometimes at a pace which may feel frustratingly slow”

Beyond the Office: Triathlons, Trail Runs, and Outdoor AdventuresAway from the world of patents, Yann is a passionate outdoor enthusiast. He enjoys trail running, cycling, open-water swimming, and competing in triathlons. “I’ve been doing triathlons for almost 10 years now,” Yann shares. “Like most people who dip into that world later in life, I started with shorter distances like Sprint or Olympic, then moved on to longer distances. I tend to do a couple of events a year. I completed my first Ironman distance last summer in Northumberland, finishing an unexpected third overall. One of the most unusual events I did was a half-ironman night race near Aviemore, starting at midnight with a swim in Loch Morlich in complete darkness, followed by biking through the night and running up Cairn Gorm at sunrise—a truly unique experience!”

He also has a lesser-known trait—a photic sneeze reflex. “I sneeze when I look at bright sunlight,” he laughs. “Apparently, it affects around 20% of people, but it still surprises my colleagues!”

Looking to the FutureYann predicts that while machine translation tools will continue to improve, the need for human linguistic and cultural understanding will persist. The nuances of IP law and the complexity of technical inventions will always require the expertise of a skilled professional who can interpret beyond the limitations of automated tools.

Connect with Yann Robin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yann-robin-515a66/

For more information on Marks & Clerk visit: https://www.marks-clerk.com/

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