Ms
Emily
Thao

Experience

Emily is a European and UK Chartered Patent Attorney with broad exposure to direct client practice, from large multinationals to universities and SMEs. She has advised clients on global IP filing and prosecution strategy, and enjoys assisting SMEs in developing and managing their IP portfolio tailored to their commercial needs.

Emily has considerable experience in drafting patent applications and prosecuting them before the EPO and UKIPO, from filing applications through to Oral Proceedings. Her work spans the electronics sector, with a particular focus on computer-implemented technologies including AI, precision scientific instruments, automotive technologies and mechanical devices.

Aside from IP matters, Emily also takes a keen interest in STEM outreach. She has enjoyed regularly participating in school outreach events, which has involved leading workshops and talks in order to promote STEM subjects and the IP profession. Before entering the profession, Emily carried out research investigating diversity and equality in the NHS, and her resulting report was subsequently published by “GovToday”.

Emily joined HGF in November 2018 as a part qualified UK and European patent attorney. Prior to HGF, she worked for two other IP firms, with a focus on electronics and mechanical devices.

Emily graduated from the University of Liverpool with a first class master’s degree in Astrophysics. During her master’s research project, she investigated transient sources using the Liverpool Telescope on La Palma. Emily also completed a research placement at the University of Leicester, where she calibrated the University’s optical telescope and designed a user manual for the undergraduates.