Sir Hugh Laddie joins UCL

Taking up his position in September 2006, Sir Hugh's appointment forms part of UCL's strategy of expanding its activity in the field of intellectual property law, a subject of intense interest in legal practice today. It is also an area especially important across UCL, particularly in the fields of biomedicine, science and engineering, and the new chair will build upon UCL's leading position in these fields. Sir Hugh's continuing consultancy with intellectual property solicitors 'Rouse & Co International', the UK arm of Willoughby & Partners, puts him in an ideal position to carry out the vision that led to the creation of this chair.

Sir Hugh said: "Intellectual property law reaches into most areas of science and business and has a major impact on much of the world we live in. It presents challenges and opportunities. It is a great privilege to be allowed to participate in the development of the teaching and analysis of this area of law within UCL. I feel that it is particularly fortunate that I will be able to do this while maintaining my regular contact with the interests and concerns of users through my continuing association with Willoughby & Partners. This is an exciting move for me and I look forward to it with relish."

Professor Michael Bridge, Dean of the UCL Faculty of Laws, said: "Hugh's appointment is a tremendous coup for UCL. Apart from his eminence in intellectual property law, he has strong links with practice and industry, and the energy and vision to drive UCL forward in this hugely important and competitive area."

• Link: UCL Faculty of Laws