Robert Kennedy

Background

Robert joined Dehns in September 2026 after graduating from the University of St Andrews, where he earned a First Class Integrated Master’s Degree in Materials Chemistry. His final-year thesis benchmarked machine learning models, such as graph neural networks, LLMs and tree-based methods, for molecular property prediction, with a view to integration within in silico drug discovery pipelines. Robert received the Charles Horrex prize for best physical chemistry research project and the Irvine Jubilee medal as the best finishing MChem student.

Robert undertook a year placement within the Ministry of Defence, where his research investigated the ageing behavior of functional polymers within a complex formulation. This work involved extensive collaboration with UK universities and industry, as well as with US National Laboratories. Robert was awarded the Armourers and Brasiers’ Prize for best placement student in materials science.

Type of clients and client work

Robert works with a variety of clients, from a number of well-known multinational corporations to startup and spinout companies. In addition to prosecuting patent applications in Europe, Robert’s work includes international prosecution in jurisdictions such as the US, China and Japan.

Expertise

Robert is particularly interested in composite materials and polymer chemistry, as well as the rapidly-developing field of AI-assisted discovery in chemistry and pharmaceuticals.

Qualifications and Memberships

• Student Member of CIPA (Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys

Higher Education

MChem (Hons) Materials Chemistry with External Placement, University of St Andrews, 2026