Sara Jane Paines

"In her job, I need to have a good eye for detail, be technically curious and be able to explain complicated concepts in simple language, which fit well with the ‘Influencer’ and ‘Quality Controller’ types. I am self-reliant and conscientious, and enjoy reading and writing which is lucky as I spend most of my time doing this! I am also fair-minded and the ‘Innovator’ type, which helps me to be confident and creative in my arguments and to understand my clients' needs."

"My job involves advising clients on which actions to take in order to best protect their inventions and writing patent applications, which are detailed descriptions of inventions and how they work.If my arguments are successful, my client will be granted a patent for their invention so that nobody else can use that invention without permission. People who do my job also help patent holders to defend their patents against opposition and to enforce their rights when somebody uses a patented invention without permission."

"I studied Maths, Physics, Chemistry, French and German at A-Level. I then studied for a degree in Modern Languages before becoming a technical translator. Once I found out there was a career that combined being skilled at language and science, I thought it would be the best of both worlds for me!I studied for a second degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering in order to become eligible to begin training as a patent attorney. To qualify as a patent attorney, I've had to sit a lot of professional examinations that my employer is paying for. I am currently part-qualified in the UK and Europe. My starting salary was £29,000, and each time I pass the next level of qualification, I receive a salary increase."

"I like to read and watch films, and I also like climbing and hiking. I joined a weightlifting gym and trains a few times a week, as well as having taken part in a 10km mud race. I used to be a Scout leader but am having break at the moment to focus on my exams.I have the opportunity to travel to hearings at the European Patent Office in Munich, Berlin or The Hague. My firm has offices all over the world so I also have opportunities for travel further afield. They have recently introduced secondments to other international offices for qualified associates, which is another incentive for me to get through my exams! I hope to be an international partner in my firm one day."

"I write to and attend hearings at patent offices in order to persuade patent examiners to grant patents to my clients. I also read technical documents and come up with persuasive technical and legal arguments. "

"Maths, Physics, Chemistry, French and German at A-LevelDegree in Modern LanguagesDegree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering"