Patent Examiner Requirements, Skills & Qualifications

The following common skills and qualifications are required of a Patent Examiner:

Degree in a relevant science, engineering, mathematics or computer science course.
Ability to apply scientific and technical knowledge to the concepts of patent law
Excellent analytical and critical skills and an eye for detail
Ability to communicate complex technical and legal arguments, justifying the granting or otherwise of a patent, both orally and in writing
Research skills
Negotiation skills
Communication skills to interact with colleagues and applicants to process patent applications efficiently
Flexibility of thought and the ability to grasp unfamiliar concepts
Self-motivation and a willingness to take responsibility for your own actions
Competence in IT, in order to search databases and check the originality of inventions.

Note that this is not an exhaustive list of Patent Examiner skill, qualifications and experience. Job requirements for specific Patent Examiner roles may vary, depending on the industry and type of employer.

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