Renowned for its proficiency in high-profile patent litigation and big-ticket transactions – including M&A, licensing and collaborations – A&O Shearman advises across the full spectrum of life sciences, supporting global pharmaceutical, growth-stage and consumer healthcare companies. The ‘professional, efficient and effective’ team also handles regulatory, antitrust, employment, and investigations matters. The practice is jointly led by Matthew Appleton, noted for his ’innovative’ transaction structuring; Jim Ford, IP and commercial specialist at the forefront of AI and machine learning in drug development; and Marjan Noor, an expert in life sciences patents and regulatory law. Rafi Allos focuses on contentious patent matters and regulatory advice, while Megan McMellon combines expertise in cross-border IP transactions and commercial agreements. The team’s IP capabilities were strengthened by the arrival of Gemma Barrett from Bristows LLP in February 2024.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team provides seamless services across a wide range of work streams that cut across multiple complex fields of law in a professional, efficient, and effective manner - and in the process delivers an end product that is best of breed.’
- ‘They provide comprehensive support, involving European and American team members as necessary, for a wide range of matters, including licensing agreements for life science technologies, small and large cross-border M&A deals, investments in venture companies, and the establishment of joint ventures.’
- ‘Deep knowledge of the important aspects around the complicated interface between law, deal-making and biotech.’
- ‘In and amongst a world-class Health Sciences M&A team, Matthew Appleton and Gareth Irving bear mentioning as stand-out lawyers. These individuals operate together as an incredibly well-oiled machine, producing top-quality solutions to complex legal problems. Matthew's approach to transaction structuring is visionary, as he creates innovative solutions for key issues that could otherwise become deal breakers. Gareth is a leading strategic legal mind with an outstanding ability to craft top-drawer agreements that are incredibly well considered and designed to offer solid protection in the face of potential dispute.’
‘Megan McMellon and Jim Ford, in particular, are very collaborative and easy to work with, as well as hard-working and smart.’
‘Marjan Noor and Tom Edwards are excellent.’
Key clients
- Bayer
- Exscientia
- BioNtech
- Haleon
- Life Healthcare
- Mallinckrodt
- Shionogi
- GSK
- Optima Health
- Goldman Sachs
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Jim Ford
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Rafi Allos
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Megan McMellon
Practice head
Matthew Appleton; Jim Ford; Marjan Noor
Other key lawyers
Rafi Allos; Megan McMellon; Gemma Barrett; Gareth Irving; Tom Edwards