Emily Smith

Trainee Patent Attorney

Associate Patent Attorney, Agile IP LLP

Education

Emily joined Agile IP in February 2025 as a Trainee Associate Patent Attorney. A highly accomplished scientist with a PhD in Cellular Biology and Regenerative Medicine, she specialises in biotechnology, stem cell research, cellular and developmental biology, and immunology. Driven by a passion for scientific discovery and innovation protection, she seamlessly combines her hands-on technical expertise with legal insight, playing a pivotal role in translating cutting-edge research into strategic intellectual property (IP) solutions.

Emily’s academic journey began with a First-Class Honours degree in Equine Science from Coventry University, where she built a strong foundation in biochemistry, molecular biology and veterinary medicine. She then pursued her doctoral studies at the Royal Veterinary College, University of London, focusing on the role of inflammation in tendon degeneration, using embryonic stem cells as a model. Her research explored how regenerative therapies and pharmaceutical interventions could minimise tissue fibrosis, ultimately contributing to the development of novel therapeutic strategies. Throughout her PhD, she secured competitive research funding, developed innovative 3-D cell culture models and authored multiple peer-reviewed publications. Her work has been widely recognised, earning awards for scientific presentations at both national and international conferences.

Beyond academia, Emily has gained extensive experience in IP law, working across a range of areas including patents, trademarks, designs and copyright. Her work includes formulating legal arguments, evaluating patentability, and handling infringement and opposition cases. Additionally, her participation in moot court competitions has further refined her ability to construct compelling legal arguments and present complex scientific ideas with clarity and precision.

Emily is highly adaptable, detail-oriented and thrives in fast-paced environments that demand analytical thinking and strategic problem-solving. She is passionate about mentoring aspiring attorneys, learning about complex scientific concepts and ensuring that groundbreaking innovations receive the legal protection they deserve. She provides clear, business-focussed IP advice, helping clients ranging from start-ups to established enterprises develop cost effective and robust IP strategies.

Outside of her professional life, Emily enjoys cooking, art, and skiing—always seeking new challenges and creative passions. A fun fact about her: she can solve a Rubik’s Cube in under a minute!