Fortifying IP at NLO as a patent attorney, Barend advises his pharma and life sciences Clients on various IP related issues. He has assisted life science clients in building and executing successful IP strategies integrated in the overall business. These strategies for example also can focus on late-stage rights based on clinical trial data. Designing patenting strategies for drug repurposing programs is also part of Barend’s expertise, contributing to establishing a business case for the Clients. In view of this Barend is regularly involved in clinical trial design, due diligence (for example for investors, innovators, M&A) and freedom-to-operate analyses. Barend has previous experience as COO and head of R&D of a Dutch Biotech firm and worked several years at an IP strategy consultancy firm. Barend holds a PhD in biochemistry, structural biology, autoimmune disease and bleeding disorders.