Microscopic photo from National Cancer Institute

Sector group

Life sciences

HGF’s life sciences attorneys understand the challenges associated with commercially focused IP management and can advise on the pertinent issues, from invention conception through to patent term extension, to maximise the value of intellectual property.

Lady looking into test tube

As one of Europe’s largest groups of specialist life science attorneys, HGF has the wealth of technical and legal expertise to deliver truly global, commercially-focused strategies.

From protecting new research from Europe’s most prestigious universities, to high-profile oppositions for international healthcare companies on market-leading technologies, the team possesses in-depth legal experience. Particular technical expertise within the group covers the fields of foodtech, microbiome for therapeutic purposes, cell and gene therapy, bioinformatics, agritech, gene editing, and personalised medicine.

In addition, our life sciences attorneys work closely with our IP lawyers in relation to life cycle agreements such as MTAs, R&D collaborations, companion diagnostics, IP licensing, clinical trials through to commercial manufacturing and supply, and litigation.

Latest updates

The Antibody Series #4 | pH points in antibody claims: when “same pH ” becomes an addition of matter

The Boards of Appeal of the EPO (BoA) are the appeal body that reviews EPO decisions; in this case, they reviewed a revocation in opposition of a patent relating to …

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The Antibody Series #2 | Definition via binding strength in antibody claims: when “binds strongly... but only minimally...” becomes a trap of lack of clarity

Defining an antibody by its binding strength is common practice in patent claims, but it can quickly become a pitfall under Article 84 EPC on clarity. In this second installment …

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HGF Shortlisted for Women in Diversity Awards 2026

We are proud to announce that we’ve been shortlisted in the Diversity and Inclusion Initiative or Programme of the Year category for the Women in Diversity in Law Awards 2026, …

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Exam Success at HGF!

HGF is pleased to announce that several of our attorneys have passed their UK Advanced Patent exams! In no specific order, we would like to say well done and a …

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HGF office closures in December 2024 and January 2025

Please note that our offices will be closed for business in accordance with national holidays on the following dates.  Please plan accordingly and provide us with your instructions in advance …

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UMV Art. 7 (1) (c) and Art. 7 (1) (b) - DASH - AWAITING ENGLISH COPY FROM JSA

UMV Art. 7 (1) (c) und Art. 7 (1) (b)  – DASH Die Bezeichnung „DASH“ des technischen Standards/Protokolls/Formats für das Streaming von Daten im Internet stellt eine beschreibende Sachangabe in …

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HGF ranked band 1 in Chambers and Partners UK 2025

Chambers and Partners UK 2025 guide is now live. HGF is proud to be highly ranked as a firm and to have five ranked individuals. HGF is ranked band 1 …

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Bite-sized MBA Course

HGF are proud to announce 14 of our colleagues have completed a bite-sized MBA and have now achieved a strategy consultation accreditation awarded from The University of East Anglia. The …

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