What are the key Intellectual Property (IP) essentials for drug discovery startups?

In the high-stake world of drug discovery, intellectual property (IP) is a strategic asset that can make or break a company’s future.

For startups pushing the boundaries of science and technology, navigating the complex IP landscape is both a challenge and an opportunity. We have prepared a series of articles exploring the critical IP issues facing early-stage innovators in drug discovery and offers actionable strategies to help protect breakthroughs, attract investment, and build long-term value.

Published in the lead-up to ELRIG Drug Discovery 2025, this series is designed to equip you with the insights you need to approach IP with confidence.

If you are attending ELRIG Drug Discovery 2025 and would like to know more about IP, get in touch with us to arrange a meeting.

See you in Liverpool at booth F31

Learning Zone: Network Like a Boss

ELRIG Drug Discovery 2025 - Day 1: Network like a boss

Connect with Secerna's Charlotte Watkins at the "Network like a boss" session from 17:15–18:15 on Tuesday 21st October.

Often described as professional speed dating, it’s a fast, informal way to meet people working across the drug discovery field. It’s specifically designed for Early Career Professionals (ECPs)—undergrads, postgrads, postdocs, and anyone starting out in life sciences—to network with each other and connect with industry experts. Use this chance to talk to them about their jobs, their career paths, and the valuable lessons they’ve picked up along the way.

You get five minutes at each table. That's enough time to ask a few solid questions and understand what that person does and how they got there. Then, at the blow of a whistle, you move on to the next table. And the next boss.

Location: Learning Zone

Time: 17:15-18:15

Find out what else is on at ELRIG Drug Discovery 2025

Breakthrough Zone Theatre: Panel Discussion

ELRIG Drug Discovery 2025 - Day 2: Building spinout/ SME capacity and investment readiness

Join Secerna's Melvyn Ansell at this panel discussion as part of the Innovation Breakthrough Zone, which aims to connect emerging technologies & companies with the larger life science/drug discovery community to enable new partnerships, support for funding & advice.

Location: Breakthrough Zone Theatre

Time: 13:45-14:50

Chaired by Dr Lucy Buckley - Digital Health Assurance

Lorna Cuddon - Zyme Communications

Melvyn Ansell - Secerna LLP

Christopher Church - AstraZeneca

Stuart Rose - OBN

Find out what else is on at ELRIG Drug Discovery 2025

Intellectual Property Strategy Checklist

An effective Intellectual Property (IP) strategy is the key to securing a competitive edge. It's a living plan, not a one-time event, and every innovative company needs one. Download and complete your IP Checklist and get in touch with our attorneys to begin.

Download your IP Checklist

ELRIG Series: Managing freedom-to-operate (FTO) risks in drug discovery startups

ELRIG Series: Smart intellectual property (IP) strategies for resource-constrained drug discovery startups

ELRIG Series: Resolving patent ownership issues in drug discovery startups

ELRIG Series: Timing patent filings for maximum impact in drug discovery startups

ELRIG Series: Choosing between patents and trade secrets in early-stage drug development

ELRIG Series: Managing intellectual property (IP) risks in licensing and collaboration agreements

ELRIG Series: Strengthening your intellectual property (IP) position ahead of investor due diligence

Chemistry and Pharmaceuticals

Our clients operate at the forefront of this fast-paced and dynamic sector

Our team has a wealth of experience gained from working with world leaders in the chemistry and pharmaceutical disciplines encompassing new chemical entities, materials science, agricultural chemistry, chemical processes and formulation technology. We have also worked extensively in the medical device materials and carbon nanotechnology sectors.

The team works across all areas of pharmaceuticals, industrial chemistry and medical devices, with experience spanning academic and in-house environments, as well as private practice. Some of our attorneys have gained considerable insight working in industry and being closely involved in the protection and defence of market leading pharmaceuticals.

For intellectual property advice relating to your next project, please get in touch. Our team will be happy to assist.

Secerna LLP at ELRIG Drug Discovery 2025