Ben Appleton

Ben graduated from Leeds University with an honours degree in chemistry & biochemistry. He was subsequently awarded a Ph.D. from the same university for research into the synthesis of novel biomimetic compounds which mimic the active site of glucose oxidase enzymes. Ben entered the patent profession in 1998 with another firm. He obtained the Manchester University Postgraduate Certificate in Intellectual Property Law and went on to qualify as a Chartered and European Patent Attorney. He joined Wilson Gunn in 2012.

Ben also spent a number of years as in-house counsel at Cadbury and Kraft Foods, managing the UK patent team and advising the business on a wide range of patent, design and technical know-how matters. As a result of his time as in-house counsel, Ben has a particular expertise in patent matters relating to food chemistry, packaging and manufacturing processes. He also has extensive experience in European Patent Office oppositions and appeals, both offensively and defensively, and has been actively involved in successful litigation in Europe, Australia and the US. In addition, Ben also has broad experience in a range of other chemical and material science fields, including dye and colour chemistry, lithographic printing technologies, household cleaning products, alloys, and medicinal chemistry, as well as mechanical engineering experience.

Ben is also an Examiner for the UK patent attorney professional examinations, in relation to the advanced examination on the infringement and validity of patents.

Ben Appleton