Patent examiners usually have a scientific or engineering background. They use this background to see if inventions qualify for a patent and fit within existing legislation.

Where patent examiners are employed

Patent examiners typically work for IP (Intellectual Property) Australia, a government agency that administers intellectual property rights and legislation relating to patents, trade marks, designs and plant breeder’s rights. To become a patent examiner you need to have a strong interest in technology and an ability to understand technical concepts.

How to become one

Usually you need to study engineering or law (intellectual property / intellectual property law) at university. At school consider doing chemistry, computing studies, mathematics and physics.

For information on course admission requirements and how to apply to the universities and TAFE in South Australia visit the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre (SATAC).

Check South Australian Universities at The University of Adelaide, Flinders University and University of South Australia.

For information about Australian universities visit Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT). 

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Useful links

• Job Outlook
• IP Australia