Announcing our new collaboration with Appleyard Lees

We are pleased to announce a new collaboration with leading intellectual property (IP) law firm Appleyard Lees

Appleyard Lees have committed to supporting young people through the In2scienceUK programme over the next three years, to commemorate the outstanding contribution made to the firm by Clifford Lees OBE (the ‘Lees’ of Appleyard Lees). Mr. Lees, who came from an economically disadvantaged background, sadly passed away in August 2021. 

David Clark, Appleyard Lees Managing Partner, said, “Mr. Lees was possibly the key figure in the firm’s history. He was instrumental in the growth of the firm from a one-man-band patent firm, to a firm of several IP attorneys with complementary skill-sets. He set the firm on the path toward where we are today. 

“Mr. Lees was active on the Council of the Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys (CIPA) for many years, serving as President from 1991 to 1992. He was awarded an OBE for services to the patent industry in June 1996. His passion for new technology and IP, and his client first attitude and overwhelming desire to help people, are cornerstones of our firm’s culture today.”

Appleyard Lees’ support will enable young people to access mentoring sessions, expert-led skills workshops and industry placements, equipping them with the necessary skills and networks to help begin to work toward a successful future.

Shared mission

In2scienceUK’s mission is to empower young people from low-income backgrounds, to achieve their potential and progress to science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) degrees and careers. Appleyard Lees is also committed to diversity and supporting underrepresented groups. 

David Clark said, “We are continually looking at ways we can become a more diverse firm and a more inclusive workplace, whether that be reviewing our approach to recruitment or looking at ways we can support initiatives that encourage underrepresented groups to study STEM subjects.”

About Appleyard Lees

With approximately sixty patent and trademark attorneys and litigators, Appleyard Lees are a leading intellectual property law firm. They offer broad sector, industry and commercial knowledge, enabling them to respond to specific client requirements.

Your Support

In2scienceUK rely on the generous support of our partners, who enable us to grow our programme and reach more young people across the UK from disadvantaged and low-income backgrounds. Find out how your organisation can get involved and help support the next generation of STEM professionals.