


Molly Lightowler
Molly brings academic and industry research experience to the chemistry team, supporting the development of intellectual property (IP) strategies for innovations in the pharmaceutical and chemical sectors.
Molly works with clients across a wide variety of subject matter including new chemical entities, medical uses, formulations and drug delivery technologies. Her experience includes patent drafting, global prosecution, IP due diligence and strategic portfolio management.
Before joining Potter Clarkson, Molly completed a PhD in inorganic chemistry at Stockholm University, where she researched pharmaceutical polymorphism using electron diffraction. During her master’s, she undertook a year-long placement in a start-up’s medicinal chemistry team and contributed to research on zeolite-polymer composites for antibacterial coatings on medical devices.
- Drafting patent applications
- Global patent prosecution
- IP due diligence
- Strategic portfolio management
- Member of the Supplementary Protection Certificates (SPC) specialist team
- PhD, Inorganic Chemistry, Stockholm University
- MSci, Medicinal Chemistry, University of St Andrews
About Molly
Experience
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How We Live Our Values: Excellence
As part of the SPC specialist team, I focus on giving clients valuable support in one of the more complex areas of IP. I regularly write updates on SPC developments and offer ongoing advice to help them stay informed, feel confident navigating the complexities of IP protection, and make decisions that support long-term growth.
In My Own Words
During my research on polymorphism in pharmaceuticals, I saw first-hand how important IP protection can be. Polymorphs can hold significant commercial value, and securing patents for them can turn years of research into real competitive advantage.
Since joining Potter Clarkson, my understanding of the commercial impact of IP has deepened. I now use this knowledge to help clients protect their work, recoup their investment and succeed in competitive markets. It’s rewarding to apply that knowledge in a way that supports innovation.
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