Beyond the Bench: Lauren's Journey From Cancer Research to Patent Law

The MSc in Applied Cancer Science at the University of Oxford's Department of Oncology is a one-year, full-time course designed to equip aspiring scientists with the skills needed to shape the future of oncology. Alongside fundamental cancer science, the programme has a strong focus on transferable skills, including critical thinking, sourcing and appraising literature, scientific writing, and data handling. Since its launch in 2023, the course has attracted outstanding students who have gone on to pursue varied careers across academia and industry.

Lauren Woodman studied the MSc Applied Cancer Science in 2024-2025, having first developed her interest in cancer biology during her undergraduate research. After completing the course, Lauren began her career as a Trainee Patent Attorney. In this blog, she shares her experience of the course and how it inspired her interest in patent law.

Can you tell us about your background? 

Prior to starting the MSc in Applied Cancer Science course, I graduated with a BA in Natural Sciences from the University of Cambridge. This interdisciplinary degree allowed me to specialise in various subject areas including human physiology, pharmacology and biochemistry. My favourite module was by far, the pathophysiology of cancer module, which dissected the role of the tumour microenvironment in disease progression. This love for cancer biology inspired my dissertation “Targeting Calcium Channels in Cancer”, which explored the role of calcium channels and associated signalling pathways in driving tumour progression and ultimately led to my decision to pursue an MSc in the field.

How did you hear about the MSc Applied Cancer Science course and what made you decide to apply?

I came across the course whilst searching online for MSc courses that had a strong focus on cancer biology and translational research. When comparing courses, it was clear the MSc in Applied Cancer Science offered the best breadth of modules, covering cancer research from all angles.

What did you enjoy most about the course?

Firstly, I thoroughly enjoyed the modules on Immunological Therapies and Translational Research Methods and Applications. It was a truly eye-opening experience to learn, from leaders in the field, the work that goes into taking candidates from the bench into the clinic. Secondly, the course offers a wide variety of assessment formats. It was refreshing to be able to demonstrate my learning through presentations, popular science articles and case studies. Finally, the tutorials offered the opportunity to dissect cutting edge research and emerging areas in the field with my peers, which made for an enriching learning experience.

What were your next career steps after completing the MSc in Applied Cancer Science?

After completing the course, I began working as a Trainee Patent Attorney at a Tier 1 patent law firm. Working within the biotechnology team, I am working towards qualifying as a UK and European patent attorney. Intellectual property law allows me to utilise my technical knowledge to support inventors in obtaining legal protection for their inventions.

How has the MSc in Applied Cancer Science helped you to achieve your career goals?

My role involves understanding how various cutting-edge therapies offer unique and inventive contributions to the field. The MSc in Applied Cancer Science gave me a strong foundation in a breadth of therapy modalities and techniques which can be applied not only to cancer but other prevalent diseases. The course also highlighted to me that there is a plethora of opportunities to contribute to scientific innovation outside of laboratory research or academia, and that my skills as a scientist are transferable to other industries.

What is your top tip for getting the most out of the course?

I would recommend preparing a set of questions or discussion points for tutorials as this small group teaching is an excellent chance to explore a topic in depth. Oxford University as a whole is home to an abundance of brilliant minds and resources, if you are unsure of what to you want to do next, talk to as many people and explore as many options as you can!

Lauren’s journey highlights the breadth of opportunities available to graduates of the MSc in Applied Cancer Science. Whether progressing into academia, industry, policy, or intellectual property law, students leave the course with the skills to make meaningful contributions to the field. To find out more about the course: MSc in Applied Cancer Science