Life Sciences

Partner, Patent Attorney

Frances (Fran) works in all patent cycle stages within the life sciences sector – from invention capture, drafting and patent strategy to prosecution and global portfolio management. She is a member of our plant variety rights team, having completed the official WIPO course on plant variety protection under the UPOV convention. As such, Fran has extensive experience dealing with plant-related inventions, including obtaining plant variety rights and entry onto the national list and common catalogue.

Areas of Expertise

Cell therapies, such as adoptive cell therapy and CAR-T therapy Personalised and stratified medicine Plant related inventions and plant variety rights

Fran’s clients include universities and technology transfer offices, as well as start-ups, spin-outs and SMEs. She works closely with many Singapore-based clients and is a regular visitor to region.

WoMEn of Mewburn Ellis Network

Fran is our Women's Champion and runs our WoMEn of Mewburn Ellis Network. The network provides a valuable space for women and allies to support and champion each other regardless of their role within the company. Fran is also an advocate for all women in IP and active in championing their value in the sector.

Inclusion & Diversity

Fran has been recognised as a WIPR Diversity 2023 ‘Influential Woman in IP’. These are women who have built some of the most successful careers in IP, including some who are already making waves in the industry.

Fran has a BSc degree in biological sciences from the University of Bristol and a PhD in plant molecular genetics from the University of Edinburgh.