Work with innovations before they change the world

Are you driven to explore groundbreaking technologies before they reach the market? Does the idea of working at the crossroads of chemistry, biochemistry, law and strategy excite you?

At EP&C, as a trainee patent attorney, you’ll be among the first to work with promising innovations. You will investigate, analyse and advise, helping organisations protect their ideas smartly and use them strategically.

Your role within EP&C

From day one, you’ll contribute to real cases. You’ll learn the profession hands-on and dive into innovations long before they launch. You’ll support clients in protecting their ideas strategically and gradually grow into an independent trusted advisor.

If it turns out to be a good match on both sides, you’ll start the three-year training programme to become a Dutch and European Patent Attorney. This means working and learning at a high professional level.

You’ll collaborate with your team, each case is reviewed by multiple colleagues. You’ll have a dedicated mentor, regular substantive reviews and guidance in both your practical work and your studies. This ensures you grow with confidence in a profession where quality matters.

What you will be doing

• Analysing technical innovations and evaluating their novelty and inventive step.
• Performing literature and patent searches and assessing novelty reports.
• Drafting and filing patent applications in the Netherlands and internationally.
• Advising R&D teams, management and inventors on protection options and IP strategies.
• Building long-term client relationships and growing into a technical sparring partner.

What we are looking for

• A completed university degree (MSc or PhD) in organic chemistry, biochemistry or a related field.
• A PhD and/or relevant R&D experience is an advantage.
• Excellent command of both Dutch and English, written and spoken.

You’re also:

• Ambitious and motivated to grow into a strategic advisor.
• Analytically strong and intellectually curious.
• Able to explain complex topics simply and clearly.
• Careful and capable of balancing attention to detail with a broader view.
• Communicative and able to build trust with clients.

What you can expect from us

We believe in a positive working culture where collaboration, quality and job satisfaction are central. You’ll be given responsibility and the space to grow.

On top of that, we offer:

• Full coverage of the training programme to become a Dutch and European Patent Attorney, including intensive guidance from experienced colleagues.
• A one-year contract (37.5 hours) with the prospect of a permanent position.
• Attractive salary, 13th month and 8% holiday pay.
• Flexible working hours and the option to work hybrid.
• A solid pension scheme.
• Attention to vitality and well-being.

Matthijs van der Linden, patent attorney:“As a trainee, you’re given a lot of freedom as well as strong guidance. There’s room to learn, focus on your studies and develop yourself. The atmosphere is open and non-hierarchical, making it a very pleasant place to work.”

About EP&C

EP&C is a modern patent firm with a rich history and a clear purpose: to help companies protect their ideas and make them stronger. We combine expertise with commitment, honesty and an eye for the person behind the innovation.

You’ll join a team that is professional in what we do but informal in how we work together. We value initiative, encourage growth and support each other every step of the way.

Ready to grow?

Would you like to use your technical expertise to help shape tomorrow’s innovations? Send your CV and motivation letter to jobs@epc.nl, for the attention of Ellen Offenberg.

If you’d like to know more first, feel free to contact Michiel Croes or Mark Jolink via +31 (0)70 – 414 54 54. They’re happy to tell you more about the role and the training.