Secerna is pleased to announce the appointment of Part Qualified Patent Attorney, Ethan McHugo, and Trainee Patent Attorney, Joseph Lawton to the firm's Physics and Engineering team.
Ethan joins Secerna to continue his career in intellectual property, bringing specialist expertise across physics, electronics, and engineering sectors. He holds a First Class BSc in Physics from the University of Warwick and an MSc by Research in Physics from the University of Bristol, where his research focused on optical instrumentation, specifically backscattering interferometry (BSI) apparatus design and biophysical measurement techniques.
Ethan commented:
"I'm excited to be joining Secerna and continuing my career in intellectual property. The opportunity to work alongside such an experienced team while supporting clients in protecting their innovations is something I am really looking forward to."
Joseph brings strong expertise in imaging physics, computational modelling, and electronics. He graduated from Durham University with a First Class BSc in Physics before earning an MRes in Medical Imaging with High Distinction from Nottingham Trent University.
Joseph added:
"I am delighted to join the team. It is an exciting opportunity to develop my skills as a patent attorney while helping clients protect their ideas and support the growth of new technologies."
Secerna Partner Jason Boakes said:
"We are delighted to welcome Ethan and Joseph to the team. Both bring exceptional academic credentials and technical expertise. I am confident they will deliver real value to our clients as our Physics and Engineering practice continues to expand."
The appointments reinforce Secerna’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of patent attorneys. Working with clients ranging from university spin-outs and start-ups to established multinational corporations, the expanded team continues to deliver clear, commercial IP advice across complex technical sectors.