One of Australia’s leading Intellectual Property Law Firms, Wrays, has announced the hiring of Principal, Dr Mary Turonek. Mary joins the firm from FB Rice.
With over 20 years experience Mary adds significant weight to the already-established Perth Chemistry, Resources and Oil and Gas teams. Mary has, in particular, provided IP protection and management for a broad range of Australian and International oil and gas clients as well as start-ups, universities and research organisations.
Mary is well-known for the enthusiasm and energy she brings to the world of IP. “As a patent attorney, you have the unique privilege of learning about new technologies and engaging with businesses that value innovation. It’s such a stimulating environment. I meet and work with lots of people who are experts in their field and you never really know what the next invention will be. The prospect of getting the best outcome for clients – persuading a recalcitrant examiner to accept the patent or a win at a hearing – appeals to the competitive side of me”.
Mary started her career as a Chemist, completing a PhD in physical and inorganic chemistry before spending 10 years in research in Australia and the United Kingdom.
Mary’s IP Oil and Gas practice at Wrays will focus on upstream and downstream technologies, in particular offshore and subsea engineering, natural gas processing, LNG production, refrigerants, shipping logistics and GTL processes. She will also draw on her experience with mining equipment, mineral processing, hydrogen, biofuels and pyrolysis of organic material.
Mary has a particular interest in the challenges facing the oil and gas industry to develop sustainable solutions. “I think there will be a trend towards investment and development of alternative sustainable energy technologies such as hydrogen and energy storage as this sector transitions from fossil fuel to a broader spectrum energy sector”.
Mary enjoys sharing her passion and knowledge of IP with various industry groups through podcasts, radio and television broadcasts and presenting seminars. She is currently a mentor for postgraduate students in STEM and is a former long-standing committee member and former WA regional chair of the Intellectual Property Society of Australia and New Zealand.
About Wrays – Wrays is one of the largest independent IP specialist firms in Australia – providing end to end IP solutions including IP strategy, patents, trade marks, commercial agreements and dispute resolution. Established in 1920, this year Wrays celebrates their 100th year Anniversary.