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Felix White

Biotechnology Specialist

“Be ready to jump into the deep end both culturally and professionally. But you will have the chance to learn a lot in a short time that will prepare you for a career in IP anywhere in the world.”
 

What was the most difficult aspect of adjusting to work in Japan initially?

Language was obviously the most difficult aspect. In practice this means that foreign staff had initial difficulties understanding and adjusting to Japanese office culture and protocols. On the other hand, the office was very helpful assisting foreign staff with essential Japanese paperwork such as immigration, accommodation, bills etc.

At A Glance

Felix joined us after receiving a vacancy email alert from his Head of Department. Felix was the pioneering foreign biotechnology specialist in the Firm and his formidable legacy of excellence in analysis is still cherished till this day.

As Leader of the foreign biotech practice team, he handled a full docket that included prosecution, invalidation, licensing and litigation matters. He also mentored junior biotech specialists.

After his successful and groundbreaking 3 year stint in Osaka, Felix became a patent manager at a biotech vaccine start-up in Oxford, UK. The Firm had the pleasure of providing a letter of recommendation in support of Felix's successful application to be a patent examiner at IP Australia.

Shusaku Yamamoto Tenure

February 2001 to February 2004

Education/Honors


  • Australian National University, PhD candidate, 1998-2000
  • Australian National University, University Medal Prize Biochemistry, 1998
  • Australian National University, BSc, (First Class Honors) 1998

How did you cope with the stresses of working and living in Japan?

Osaka is a 24/7 city with plenty of avenues to let off steam, both after work and at the weekends. The foreign staff members tended to stick together and were an invaluable source of support and advice.

What has been your fondest experience in Japan?

That would be a toss-up between learning to snowboard in powder fresh off the Sea of Japan, and strolling through Kyoto's temples in cherry blossom season. Both beautiful in their own right.

What did you like most about living and working in Osaka?

Osaka is a (relatively) compact city with all imaginable facilities. Easy to get around and the inhabitants are invariably friendly and helpful to their foreign guests. No shortage of things to do. The office location with views over Osaka Castle was also a plus. Some things that I didn't think I would like were karaoke and Japanese style baths, but I was quickly converted.

What advice would you give to entry level recruits?

Keep an open mind and prepare to learn on your feet and be constantly challenged. Working on patent matters in the Firm combined everything I like: thinking really hard about a problem, figuring out a solution, offering it to the client - and doing that with some memorable co-workers.

What one piece of advice you would offer to someone looking to work at Shusaku Yamamoto?

See above - be ready to jump into the deep end both culturally and professionally. But you will have the chance to learn a lot in a short time that will prepare you for a career in IP anywhere in the world.

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