Jonathan Stafford

Partner @Marks & Clerk

Manchester, GB

I handle patent matters in the chemistry and life science sectors, with emphasis on pharmaceuticals, medical and diagnostic devices, industrial chemistry, materials, and synthetic methods. I have particular expertise in the area of small molecule drugs and formulations, cardiovascular devices and wound care, polymers and polymer additives, graphene, catalysis, and stereoselective synthetic processes. I have been consistently recognised as a key European Patent Attorney by IP Stars, and as a recommended practitioner in the Legal 500 rankings, JUVE rankings, and IAM Patent rankings. I am listed as a recommended UPC litigator in the JUVE UPC litigator rankings 2025. I specialise in handling contentious matters for my clients, frequently attending hearings at the EPO’s Opposition Divisions and Boards of Appeal. This experience in leading EPO opposition and appeal proceedings includes complex multi-party hearings representing patentees and opponents, and working closely with litigators to harmonise EPO opposition and national litigation strategies. I am a registered UPC representative with experience in handling multiple UPC revocation actions. I handled advocacy at the first ever full hearing on the merits in a revocation action at the Paris Central Division of the UPC (EP 36•••25), where I acted as co-representative for the claimant. I handle drafting and prosecution of patent applications where I have considerable experience in coordinating the prosecution of global patent portfolios for my clients. I have particular expertise in handling IP due diligence for companies looking to buy, license, or invest in new technology, including conducting freedom to operate and SWOT analyses, where I am recommended by my clients for practical and commercially focussed advice.In my spare time I enjoy swimming and playing water polo, having previously represented Great Britain Junior and England Senior Men’s national water polo teams.

University of Cambridge

PhD Chemistry, Organic synthesis / medchem

The University of Manchester

MChem, Chemistry