Summer Intern: Law, IP

We are seeking a student intern to help us explore legal, regulatory and intellectual property (IP) management challenges in our various R&D and commercialisation projects.

Upflow is a New Zealand based consultancy, with a focus in research and innovation and providing intelligent solutions to the global geothermal industry.  We seek out opportunities where others may see insurmountable challenges. We want to do cool things with cool people via innovative tool development, delivering geothermal research outcomes, and finding new and creative ways to challenge old paradigms. At Upflow, you will be respected, have autonomy and be part of a core team of geothermal experts and enthusiasts.

About the role

You will work closely with the members of our multi-disciplinary project teams, and work at the intersection of law and IP with engineering, microbiology, indigenous knowledge, and the commercialisation of deep tech innovations.  You will gain experience in the legal and regulatory landscape for R&D and commercialisation within New Zealand and internationally.

Areas in which the role will assist us are:

·       Documenting the current IP and regulatory landscape for value added products, such as food, nutritional supplements and active ingredients from alternative proteins and geothermal sources.

·       Understanding and improving our management of contract clauses, partnership agreements, regulatory requirements in New Zealand and target international markets, Māori data sovereignty and Mātauranga Māori, benefit sharing arrangements, as well as IP management and protection.

The successful candidate will do 400 hours of paid, full-time work with our team over the university summer holiday period, starting by 1st December 2025 and finishing by 27th February 2026.

The role will be based in an Upflow office in Rotorua / Taupō.

Key R&D project

An example of a project you will provide support for is a four-year initiative named "Novel Biofeedstocks using Indigenous Resources". This R&D project aims to demonstrate the feasibility and scalability of a lab process for growing single cell proteins from extremophile bacteria and algae as alternative feedstocks for animal feed and other valuable products. The project aims to prove the technical, economic and environmental viability of this novel biotech process, and to explore the potential markets and applications for the food products generated.

Your main tasks will include:

·       Reviewing legal frameworks, regulatory pathways and IP documentation related to the project. This will include contract clauses, partnership agreements, Māori data sovereignty and Mātauranga Māori, benefit sharing arrangements, as well as various mechanisms for IP protection.

·       Researching options, ideas, critically analysing alternatives, and forming a position to recommend – sharing your results in written and oral form with our team.

You can find out more about this exciting project here.

About you

·       You will be studying towards a Bachelor or Masters level degree in law, business, innovation or equivalent. You will have already completed at least two years of a relevant undergraduate degree.

·       You have excellent communication and writing skills in English and can work effectively in a multidisciplinary and multicultural team.

·       You are proactive, creative, problem-solving oriented and can work independently and under pressure.

·       You are passionate about innovation and sustainability, eager to learn and grow with us.

How to apply

·       If you are interested in this position, please send your CV, relevant references and an interesting cover letter explaining your motivation and suitability for the role

We will review the applications and contact the shortlisted candidates for an interview. We look forward to hearing from you