The chemicals, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology industries worldwide rely upon being able to patent inventions in order to protect investment in research and development, and to reap commercial rewards. An increasingly globalized sector requires a global perspective, and Philip Grubb's highly acclaimed book guides the reader through the legal and procedural complexities of the British, European, Japanese and US patent systems, and explains in detail the role of patent practitioners (both in-house and in private practice) in maximizing the commercial potential of their client's or company's innovative products.This eagerly awaited fifth edition provides vital updating to take account of the latest legal developments, while retaining focus on the relevant technology and industry practices that sets it apart from more general books on patent law and procedure.