Alistair is a European and UK patent attorney who drafts and prosecutes patent applications across a range of technology including optics & photonics, electronics, RF engineering, medical devices, software, and mechanical engineering. A significant proportion of his practice is defending and attacking patents in EPO opposition proceedings. He also coordinates worldwide patent portfolios and advises on third-party infringement risks (freedom to operate).
Alistair represents innovative enterprises of all sizes, from first-time patent filers to multinational corporations with thousands of patents. He particularly enjoys getting an inside perspective of his clients' commercial priorities, tailoring protection to their specific needs and advising on big-picture IP strategies.
A special area of interest for Alistair is inventions in light/EM manipulation and detection. His practice includes metamaterials, laser systems, medical imaging, displays, holography, RF ranging, waveguides, and microscopy – and is always keen to find new opportunities to work with pioneers who solve problems with light.
Prior to working in intellectual property, Alistair completed Master’s degrees from the Georgia Institute of Technology (Electrical and Computer Engineering), and the University of St Andrews (Physics). His studies included electromagnetism, optics, electronics, quantum physics, biophotonics, laser physics, and nanotechnology. He also has experience developing software in the nuclear industry.