Alex Hilton

Biotechnology Specialist

“This job gives you the opportunity to live in an incredible country while developing professionally and living comfortably. There are not many jobs out there that give science graduates this opportunity.”

 

Why did you choose patenting/IP as a career?

I liked the multi-disciplinary aspect of the job with science, law and business all playing important roles. Plus, I didn't feel the laboratory and medical research was suited to me and I wanted to be experience a deeper business perspective to science and innovation.

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

Primarily the language was an issue in your daily life outside work, but luckily Japanese people are welcoming and friendly enough for you to feel unafraid of making a fool of yourself or attempting to talk to them and figure out what you're eating or if it's edible.

How was Japan in reality to what you had imagined before you arrived?

It was everything I had expected, bright, energetic, polite, respectful, entertaining and surreal. The food isn't bad either, although I'd stay away from oden.

What were your fondest leisure experiences while you were working in Japan?

Beach and BBQ's(especially around cherry blossom season) in spring to summer, skiing in the winter and football with the local Irish pub team all year round effortlessly provided great entertainment and opportunity to meet people from all 4 corners. All gave me great memories.

What is the most important thing that working at SY has taught you about yourself?

I was generally involved in forming prosecution strategies and providing legal counsel while participating in a number of litigation proceedings. The work was definitely challenging and varied daily requiring you to read and understand a range of technologies from typical pharmaceuticals to mechanical apparatus to in silco computer models in view of the applicable law. It was as rewarding as it was challenging. The best thing about my experience was that I enjoyed what I did and my fellow BIO team members. The culture, I would say, was friendly, professional and very focused. We worked as a tight team, and we like to have a laugh together. What I like especially, is the interaction with people from different nations and cultures in a multidisciplinary environment.

What did you like most about working?

The workday went by very fast, because I liked what I did – for the most part - and things moved really quickly too. I was very pleased with what I had accomplished at the end of each day and the clients knew that we added value in their valuable intellectual property interests. The work taught me that I have the ability to work and communicate with people of varying cultures, and has provided me with a work ethic that I think will make me succeed.

How has your work and experience at SY helped in your current position?

It certainly made me able to organize myself for handling a large workload and the associated pressures, while also improving my communication skills, which is essential in my current position.

What advice would you give to entry level recruits?

Don't give up; stick at it and the personal and professional rewards are obvious. This job gives you the opportunity to live in an incredible country while developing professionally and living comfortably. There are not many jobs out there that give science graduates this opportunity.