How to Become a Patent Examiner
As a patent examiner, you're a vital part of the invention process. You review the patent application for compliance, compare it to other similar patents and work with an applicant to bring their invention into compliance. You'll need technical knowledge, creativity, organizational skills and an analytical mind to excel in this field.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
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1
Study as many science and technology courses in high school as you can. A well-rounded science curriculum opens up more possibilities for a future patent examiner.
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2
Get a bachelor's in biology, microbiology, chemistry, biochemistry or physics if you're interested in scientific breakthroughs.
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3
Pursue a bachelor's degree in engineering if you like analytical problem solving. Biochemical, biomedical, nuclear and electronics engineering are relevant studies for a future patent examiner.
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4
Consider becoming a patent examiner with your computer science degree. You'll be on the cutting edge of technology with access to information about these inventions.
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Include courses in pharmacology if you want to learn about drug innovations. Pair this knowledge with a bachelor's in medicine, veterinary studies or biology.
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Take courses on search strategies to become a more effective patent examiner. You'll find them in the library and information sciences department.
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7
Join the Patent Office Professional Association (POPA) to network with other professionals. It's an independent union that advocates better working conditions and policies.
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Tips & Warnings
You can become a patent examiner without a bachelor's degree in science if you've got an advanced degree of some kind and work experience in an appropriate field.
You'll have to develop a thick skin to be a patent examiner. You'll occasionally hear insults from patent attorneys and their clients.
