FB Rice announces four new partners

FB Rice is pleased to announce the elevation of four new partners across our chemistry, biotechnology and engineering teams, in our Melbourne and Wellington offices, effective 1 July 2025.

On the qualities the new partners bring to FB Rice, Brett Lunn, Managing Partner said, ‘Each of these individuals has consistently demonstrated an outstanding commitment to integrity, technical expertise, superior client service and skill in leading diverse teams. Their ability to support our clients and inspire our people sets them apart.”

Congratulations to our new partners

Brittany Ashton, Chemistry, Melbourne

“I am delighted to join the FB Rice partnership, as it represents an exciting opportunity to contribute more deeply to the future direction of the firm. I'm particularly looking forward to making a meaningful impact within the chemistry team as we continue to grow and deliver outstanding results for our clients.”

Brittany Ashton joined FB Rice in 2015. She specialises in pharmaceutical and medicinal chemistry, with particular expertise in small molecules, formulations, methods of treatment, and dosage regimens. Brittany also has a growing interest in radiopharmaceuticals and antibody-drug conjugates.

With a PhD in Medicinal Chemistry and postdoctoral research experience at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in the United States, Brittany brings a strong scientific foundation to her work. She manages complex patent portfolios for clients ranging from local innovators to multinational pharmaceutical companies and universities, and regularly advises on freedom to operate, validity, infringement, and strategic patenting across major global markets.

Recognised for her clear communication and practical, commercially focused advice, Brittany was named Best IP Specialist at the Client Choice Awards in 2021, and is a former MIP Rising Star and Notable Practitioner.

David Herman, Chemistry, Melbourne

"This is a special milestone in my career and one which would not have been possible without the support and trust of the partners, an amazing team, and most importantly our clients - which I am truly grateful for. I look forward to contributing to the firm's growth and success in new ways and the challenges this elevation will bring."

David Herman joined our Melbourne chemistry team as a trainee attorney in 2015, progressing through the firm to Partner. He specialises in materials science, nanotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and radiochemistry, with expertise in nanoparticles, electroactive materials, polymeric coatings, composites, mineral processing, radiopharmaceuticals, and flow and process chemistry.

David holds a PhD in Nanomaterials Chemistry and with undergraduate degrees in medicinal chemistry and molecular pharmacology, which enables him to work across a wide range of interdisciplinary technologies — including innovations at the interface of chemistry and biotech, such as drug delivery and theranostics. He is approachable, responsive, and values long-term relationships. Becoming part of his clients’ wider team and achieving results that enhance the value of their businesses is something he considers one of the most rewarding aspects of his role.

Through his growing local and overseas client base, David’s practice includes patent drafting and prosecution, freedom-to-operate, infringement and validity advice, patent oppositions, and litigation support. He is also actively engaged with the patent profession, sitting on various industry committees and regularly contributing thought leadership on patent law developments, particularly in New Zealand.

Desma Grice, Biotechnology, Melbourne

"I’m really happy to be stepping into the role of Partner. It’s a milestone I’ve worked hard to achieve, and I’m incredibly grateful for all the support along the way. I feel privileged to work with such brilliant scientists and inspiring science, and I’m excited to continue supporting our clients and all that lies ahead."

Desma Grice has been a member of our Melbourne biotechnology team for more than 10 years. With a PhD in Molecular and Cell Biology and a decade of research experience prior to entering the IP profession, Desma brings deep technical knowledge across plant biotechnology, molecular biology, cancer therapeutics, human genomics, and the gut microbiome.

Desma has held research roles at three leading Australian universities and completed a postdoctoral fellowship with CSIRO, focusing on the link between obesity and colorectal cancer. Her research in breast cancer therapeutics led to multiple peer-reviewed publications, including in Cell, and she received several academic awards for research excellence.

At FB Rice, Desma supports a diverse client base spanning biologics, pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, agtech, food processing, microorganisms and probiotics. Her practice includes drafting and prosecuting patent applications, advising on local and international freedom to operate, and managing global patent portfolios.

Clients value Desma’s strong scientific insight, practical approach, and commitment to helping them navigate complex IP landscapes to support the commercial success of their innovations.

Matt Adams, Engineering, Wellington | Te Whanganui-a-Tara

"Being a partner is both a privilege and a deeply fulfilling responsibility. It means having the opportunity to shape the future of innovation by mentoring the next generation of attorneys and fostering a culture of collaboration and inclusion. I'm really thrilled at the opportunity to move my team to such a supportive environment. What drives me is the chance to connect with brilliant minds across disciplines and borders, and to help turn their ideas into lasting impact. Leading the Wellington office has been a highlight—building something meaningful in Aotearoa, grounded in respect for our people, our place, and our shared future."

Matt Adams in our New Zealand | Aotearoa engineering team has been instrumental in establishing and leading FB Rice’s Wellington office since joining the firm in 2022. With over 30 years of experience as a patent attorney, Matt specialises in patents across a broad range of technologies in Agritech, CleanTech, aerospace, and visual effects.

Matt works with clients of all sizes, including early-stage start-ups, research institutions, Crown Research Institutes, and multinational corporations. He provides strategic patent drafting, prosecution, and commercialisation advice.

Recognised by the profession, Matt featured on the IAM Global Leaders list (2024–2025), the IAM Prosecution Recommended list, and has been named an IP Star by Managing IP (2023–2025). He was also listed in The Best Lawyers in New Zealand for 2025.

Known for his collaborative and inclusive approach, Matt is actively engaged in mentoring junior attorneys. He values diversity and cultural inclusion, including learning te reo Māori, and enjoys connecting across borders to strengthen the wider firm community. When he’s not advising clients, you’ll find him gliding through forest trails on his bike or wandering high country tracks beneath open skies.

Our new partners are an extremely talented group of individuals, providing vital services to our clients and we are delighted to acknowledge the value they bring.