Gordon Stark

Gordon Stark’s core area of expertise lies in the field of biotechnology, with a particular focus on novel biologics and immunotherapeutics, such as antibody and peptide-based therapies. He has significant experience in developing patent portfolios around new therapeutic and diagnostic products, and advises on both patentability and freedom to operate aspects related to those.

Gordon’s proactive and engaging approach particularly lends itself to working integrally with small and medium-sized biotechnology companies, developing their IP estate to derive maximum return from their spend.

His scientific background includes a first class Honours degree in immunology from the University of Edinburgh and research at the Roslin Institute. He has an established track record of advising both developing and mature life science companies. Notable involvement in this area includes drafting the patents around a biologic currently undergoing phase two clinical trials, and leading the IP strategy that helped a client secure the second highest biotechnology-related fundraising in Europe during 2009.

Joining Murgitroyd in 1998, Gordon initially spent six years in the Glasgow head office, before moving to Dublin to manage the office there for three years. In 2007, he returned to his home town of Edinburgh to head up the newly-opened office there. Gordon oversaw the management of the company’s offices in Edinburgh, Belfast, Dublin and Helsinki, and operations and business relationships in Japan.

In 2012 he took on the role of Chief Operations Officer. He was appointed Chief Executive Officer in June 2020.