Emma Stares

Originally trained as a chemist, Emma completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Otago before heading to Canada to undertake a PhD at Brock University. After a stint as a research chemist at UC San Diego, she returned home to Aotearoa and joined the Intellectual Property Office of New Zealand (IPONZ) as a patent examiner in the chemistry team. She recently transitioned into a role in the IPONZ hearings office.

Emma decided to pursue the Master of Intellectual Property (MIP) at Auckland Law School to deepen her formal understanding of IP law and broaden her expertise beyond patents. She says the Auckland MIP offered a structured yet flexible way to do this while still working.

“The MIP has opened up the world of IP beyond what I knew as a patent examiner,” she says.

The trademarks papers she took have been particularly useful. “They have been invaluable for my new hearings office role. The programme also covers copyright, designs, and plant variety rights - it's fascinating to see the similarities and differences between the various domains in terms of law and practice, and how both of these evolve over time.”

For prospective students, Emma encourages an open mindset. “Be open to stepping outside your primary area of expertise! There’s tremendous value in understanding the full range of IP rights, and the teaching team is incredibly supportive and keen to help you make those connections. The programme is a commitment, but one that pays off quickly in both confidence and capability.”

Asked what makes the MIP unique or valuable for her, Emma says: “It offers a fantastic mix of legal theory and practical insight which is helping me grow into a more well-rounded IP professional.”