Sandra Clelland

Patent Attorney

An experienced patent attorney in a very broad range of Intellectual Property matters, with a focus on biotech and chemical matters.

Sandra Clelland’s experience in biotech matters sees her working with many of the firm’s University clients in this area.

About Sandra Clelland

Sandra Clelland is a patent attorney and partner at Von Seidels. She is in charge of the firm’s biotech patent practice. She holds a science degree in chemistry and biochemistry and an honours degree in biochemistry. Sandra has extensive experience in the biotech, life sciences and pharmaceutical fields.

Sandra joined the firm in 2011 and is a patent attorney with over 20 years of experience in the patent field, specialising in biotech, life science and pharmaceutical inventions.

Sandra was singled out in the Legal 500 report on the IP industry in South Africa for her experience in the biotechnology and genetics sectors (2010). The Legal 500 recognises Sandra as a ‘Leading Individual’ since 2014.

Best Lawyers recognises Sandra as a leading lawyer in IP law (2021 - 2024).

Managing Intellectual Property recognises Sandra as a ‘Patent Star’ (2013 - 2023) and featured Sandra as one of the Top 250 Woman in IP (2017).

IAM Patent 1000 features Sandra as a Recommended Individual (2012 - 2023).

Focus areas

  • Biotechnology and genetics
  • Patent prosecution in Africa

Education

  • University of KwaZulu-Natal, BSc in Chemistry and Biochemistry (1991)
  • University of KwaZulu-Natal, BSc (Honours) in Biochemistry (1992)
  • University of KwaZulu-Natal, LLB (1996)
  • South African Institute of Intellectual Property Law, Qualified Patent Attorney (1998)

Affiliations and accolades

  • Attorney of the High Court, South Africa
  • Patent Attorney, South Africa
  • Fellow, South African Institute of Intellectual Property Law (SAIIPL)
  • Patent Examinations Board Member
  • Member, South African Research and Innovation Management (SARIMA)

Featured in

Von Seidels Awarded

“Patent Firm of the Year – South Africa” recognition during Managing Intellectual Property’s awards ceremony held last night in London.

Von Seidels in Gold Tier

Ascending to the gold tier this year, Von Seidels is “an admirable practice with a team of top-notch, innovative and dynamic practitioners…

Patent Star 2022 by MIP

An experienced patent attorney in a very broad range of Intellectual Property matters, with a focus on biotech and chemical matters. Sandra’s