Kirsten van der Knaap

I joined EP&C as a trainee patent attorney in October 2026. After completing my Master’s degree in Molecular Chemistry in 2022, I gained four years of experience in advocacy and commercial collaboration within the cosmetics and biopharmaceutical sectors. During this time, I learned how to bridge the gap between science and practice. I now use this experience to connect innovation with commercial interests.

My curiosity and analytical mindset help me understand the essence of an invention. I ask targeted questions, look beyond the technical aspects and take my clients’ commercial objectives into account. This allows me to contribute to patent strategies that are not only technically and legally sound, but also aligned with their business operations.

What appeals to me most about this profession is the combination of science, strategy and collaboration. I enjoy working closely with inventors to bring innovative ideas forward and contribute to protecting developments in chemistry and life sciences.