Deborah Selden

Partner. Patents.

Deborah Selden is especially well known for her expertise in the chemicals and biotech sectors, where she is valued by clients for her “sharp mind” and deep understanding of their products and businesses.

Deborah’s broad patent practice is founded on a background in chemistry, which – together with her acute business brain – helps her to “understand technical matters in depth and apply what is needed for success.” Experienced in working with a wide range of clients, from start-ups and individual entrepreneurs to multinational corporations, she has also developed a flourishing trade mark practice.

Deborah’s technical background is in chemistry. Her practice spans a wide range of fields, from photovoltaic devices and printing techniques to carbohydrate synthesis, biotechnology, and a number of separation technologies, including air separation, chromatography and protein extraction.

An expert in drafting and prosecuting patent applications for a variety of businesses, ranging from multinational corporations to small start-up companies, she enjoys helping her clients develop and protect their inventions, going the extra mile where necessary to achieve the results they need. In addition, Deborah has experience in prosecuting and defending oppositions to European patents, and providing infringement and freedom to operate advice to clients across a range of technical fields.

Deborah also practises in trade marks. Here she has particular experience in the fashion and beauty sector, handling an international portfolio of marks for a well-known fragrance brand. This includes advising on strategies for extending and maintaining the portfolio, and conducting and advising on searches. Deborah is also regularly called upon to defend the brand in a number of jurisdictions, through opposition proceedings and the negotiation and drafting of settlement agreements.

Merton College, University of Oxford (2000 MChem); University of Oxford (2004 DPhil Organic Chemistry).