Marks & Clerk expands Chinese expertise in Cambridge

Cambridge witnessed a significant development on 12 November 2026, as international intellectual property firm Marks & Clerk announced the relocation of Principal and patent attorney Zephyr Su from Hong Kong to its Cambridge office. Zephyr’s arrival introduces over 15 years of comprehensive insight into the Chinese patent system to one of Europe’s key centres of innovation. His move is seen as a strategic benefit for both UK and European clients as well as Chinese companies aiming to protect their innovations abroad.

From his new base in Cambridge, Zephyr will provide guidance to clients on various elements of patent strategy concerning China, including the planning and filing of applications, protecting and enforcing rights, and navigating litigation and cross-border disputes. He will also assist Chinese businesses in safeguarding their innovations within the UK and Europe, acting as an effective link between these two vital markets.

Over his tenure at Marks & Clerk, Zephyr has established a strong reputation, particularly in representing clients during invalidation proceedings before the Chinese Patent Office and in the Chinese court system. His technical expertise extends across fields such as artificial intelligence, microelectronics, IT and software, fintech, blockchain, cellular network technology, and microwave engineering.

In addition to holding dual qualifications as a Chinese Patent Attorney and a Chartered (UK) Patent Attorney, Zephyr possesses a Certificate of Legal Profession Qualification in China. He earned a BSc in Electrical & Electronic Engineering from the University of Macau and an MSc in Telecommunications from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and is fluent in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the move, Zephyr Su remarked, “I’m delighted to be joining Marks & Clerk Cambridge. So much of the innovation in this city already has such a strong connection to China, and being based locally means I can help clients build the right protection and enforcement strategy there from day one, while supporting Chinese businesses looking to do the same in the UK and Europe.”

Matthew Pinney, Office Managing Partner for Marks & Clerk Cambridge, added, “We’re thrilled to welcome Zephyr to Cambridge. His combination of Chinese and UK patent know-how, his contentious experience before the Chinese Patent Office and courts, and his technical depth in areas like AI and telecommunications make him a real asset to our clients. Many of the start-ups, universities and multinationals we work with are thinking globally from day one, and China is frequently a key part of that picture. Having Zephyr here means we can offer that insight locally, as part of a seamless service across our international network.”