Griffith Hack is proud to formally announce the elevation of two high-achievers to the position of Principal, effective as of 1 January 2021.
Patent Attorneys Dr Malcolm Lyons and Georgina Higinbotham have been key contributors to Griffith Hack since joining as trainee patent attorneys.
Managing Director Aaron LePoidevin said that the elevations recognise Malcolm and Georgina’s contribution to delivering great outcomes for Griffith Hack’s clients and developing many of the firm’s young attorneys.
“It’s fantastic recognition of their client centric approach and the value delivered to clients in Australia and globally. It’s great to see the firm cultivate the IP industry’s future talent. I look forward to supporting Malcolm and Georgina’s continued success with the firm”
Georgina Higinbotham – Patent Attorney (Sydney)
A former US patent agent, Georgina has expertise in medical devices including implantable devices and materials and mechanical devices, processing and packaging systems, reactor technology, mechanical devices, energy storage, building products and building and mining equipment. With more than 15 years’ experience working on mechanical devices and a background in physical and analytical chemistry, Georgina has developed a strong capability in medical systems and devices, chemical engineering systems, and systems that require both pharmaceutical or chemical aspects alongside mechanical devices or assemblies.
“I first qualified and worked as a patent agent in the United States, then moved home to Australia to continue my career. I’ve never regretted the decision to work in IP. It’s a rare job that teaches so much every day. Patent attorneys stand at the crossroads of law, science and business, and no two clients are the same.
For me, the highlight of my job is developing an understanding of not just innovative technologies but also the businesses and people that create them. From the beginning, I was impressed by the thoughtful leaders of Griffith Hack and I am proud that I can step up to lead our team with them.” – Georgina Higinbotham
Dr Malcolm Lyons – Patent Attorney (Melbourne)
Malcolm trained in chemistry and biochemistry, and now specialises in biotechnology and genomics. He has post-doctoral and industry experience in medical research into various aspects of human health and disease during which he was awarded several prestigious fellowships and published his research regularly. His work extends across the IP lifecycle from analysis of invention disclosures and drafting through prosecution to post-grant enforcement strategy. Malcolm has expertise in patent term extensions for pharmaceutical patents, and discretionary extensions of time.
“After 13.5 years, I’ve now been in the patent profession for about twice as long as I was in research at the lab bench – I guess time flies when you’re having fun! It seems like there’s always something new to learn or a new way to look at something with patents and IP. Whenever I can, I look to our up and coming attorneys to prompt me to keep that fresh approach. I hope that never changes.
With that in mind, it makes sense that relationships are key to this profession. So as a principal, I look forward to a more significant mentoring role for our attorneys within Griffith Hack, and outside Griffith Hack, I aim to spread Griffith Hack’s reach to new clients and strengthen relationships with existing clients.” – Dr Malcolm Lyons
