(Pictured above) 29 SEAD Course 2024 participants together with course tutors, FICPI and IPOS International staff.

Course title

SEAD Course 2024

Date

18 March – 20 September 2024 (hybrid)

Course Overview

The SEAD Course 2024 is a highly specialised training programme designed to immerse participants in the art of patent drafting. It covered everything from patent law fundamentals to advanced claim drafting techniques for different jurisdictions.

Organised by the FICPI Training & Education Committee and IPOS International, this year’s programme in Singapore is meticulously structured to deliver theoretical and practical knowledge. From interactive workshops to real-world case studies, the participants learnt from top industry professionals while collaborating with peers from around the globe.

Caption: Mr. Alfred Yip, Director of Patent Search, Examination, and Analytics at IPOS International, delivering a warm welcome and setting the stage for an enriching learning journey on Day 1.

Who Attended?

This year’s cohort includes 29 participants from 6 countries, representing diverse industries and professions such as patent scientists, examiners, technology analysts, technology transfer managers, lawyers, and patent specialists. Two-thirds of the group hail from Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, India, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), making it a truly international experience and rich learning environment where cross-industry perspectives were shared and explored.

Caption: Instructors leading engaging lectures, sharing their extensive knowledge on patent law, drafting techniques and real-world experiences.

Caption: Participants actively engaging in the lecture, taking turns to ask insightful questions and fostering a collaborative learning environment.

Programme Highlights

Expert-Led Training

This year’s programme brought together instructors from the US, Canada, and Europe who shared invaluable best practices and real-world insights. Their guidance provided participants with a thorough understanding of patent law, as well as strategies for drafting patent claims tailored to specific jurisdictions.

Hands-On Workshops

One of the key highlights of the SEAD Course is the practical, small-group workshops. These sessions offered hands-on drafting guidance, where participants practised claim drafting and received real-time feedback from experts. This interactive element helped participants solidify their understanding of the nuances involved in drafting patents.

Mock Trial

A unique feature of the SEAD Course is its mock trial session, where participants tested their drafting skills in a simulated legal environment, further enhancing their grasp of how patent claims can be challenged and defended.

Participant Experiences

"The insights and practical knowledge from the SEAD Course are invaluable for my work as a Patent Specialist. The course has been particularly eye-opening in understanding the nuances of patent law and the strategic considerations in patent drafting. I highly recommend this course to anyone looking to enhance their patent drafting skills."

Annisa Nurjanah, Patent Specialist in Chemistry, Biro Oktroi Roosseno

"This course has opened my mind to many perspectives on inventions from my peers and instructors, especially the diverse perspectives of instructors from Europe and the US. Most importantly, I gained a fantastic network of fellow participants!"

Sirada S., Senior IP Officer, Mitsubishi Electric Asia (Thailand) Co. Ltd.

Caption: Participants presenting their group projects, sparking lively discussions and collective problem-solving during this interactive session.

Caption: Tutors offering expert feedback and sharing their perspectives on group work exercises, helping participants refine their approach to patent drafting.

Caption: Participants networking and deepening connections with peers and industry experts during the SEAD Course 2024 welcome dinner and closing reception.

About SEAD Course

Since its inception in 1997, the SEAD Course has trained professionals in over 22 sessions worldwide. In each session, experienced practitioners from Europe, the USA, and Canada, specializing in fields such as electrical engineering, mechanics, biology, and chemistry, lead this intensive 6-month programme. Divided into three segments, the course includes two in-person practical workshops and corresponding assignments, providing participants with a comprehensive learning experience.

Ready to Take Your Patent Drafting Skills to the Next Level?

Don’t miss your chance to join the next SEAD Course and transform the way you approach patent drafting. Whether you're looking to enhance your skills or build your professional network, this course is your gateway to success.

Register your interest for our next run by contacting Ms Hui San at huisan.lim@iposinternational.com and apply to be part of this transformative journey.