Robert graduated from Glasgow University with a BEng in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, and followed this with a PhD in Bioelectronics during which he worked with a team conducting pioneering research into microfabricated structures used to record activity within neural networks.

Robert has extensive experience across a large number of technical areas. In his early career he worked in-house for Nokia Mobile Phones working on 3G and 4G mobile telephone systems. He continued in this field for other clients, moving onto 5G systems and other wireless and Internet-based communication systems. Other related areas of interest include computer security and very high speed manufacturing. More recently, Robert has worked on technologies more closely related to his academic background, and has advised a number of exciting start-up projects in the areas of bioelectronics and DNA analysis, both medical and consumer focussed. Robert also leads the firm's engagement with the motorsport industry and is an active participant in the Motorsport Industry Association.

Robert takes a pragmatic proactive approach to his work, avoiding rigid patenting strategies and preferring to tailor his approach for each client based on a thorough understanding of where the client is trying to get to. Robert sees the education of his clients as being critical to their success and is happy to provide either formal or ad hoc in-house training. He considers patents in the wider context of a client’s IP, advising on related know how, designs, trade marks and copyrights, knowing when it is appropriate to involve colleagues with specialised technical or knowledge in certain areas. Robert has had success in rapidly building patent portfolios for his clients in order to provide a solid basis for company valuation and investment.

“Robert has been immensely helpful in introducing the various overarching principles in patent law. He guided me through the process of patent application, reviews from the patent offices, and the enforceability of patents in different regions in the world.”

Dr Bryan Ng
Director, Repolywise