Matthew Penna

Matthew has experience managing patent portfolios for universities, research organisations, start-ups, and established companies across a broad range of technologies. His practice includes patent drafting and prosecution, patent oppositions, re-examination proceedings, validity and infringement advice, and freedom to operate assessments. Matthew has a particular interest in patent drafting and partnering with clients from the earliest stages of innovation to identify, protect, and maximise the value of their inventions.

Matthew specialises in chemical, materials and process-related inventions, with expertise spanning minerals processing, renewable energy, electrochemistry, advanced materials, water treatment, industrial chemical technologies, and other engineering-based innovations. He has a particular interest in technologies that support sustainability, resource efficiency, and the transition to lower-emission industrial processes.

Matthew takes a practical and commercially focused approach to intellectual property. He works closely with inventors, researchers, and commercialisation leads to understand the technologies underpinning their innovations, identify the aspects that create commercial value, and develop patent strategies aligned with broader business objectives.

Before joining FB Rice, Matthew completed a PhD in Chemical Engineering at the University of Adelaide and was a postdoctoral research fellow at RMIT University where he was a member of the ARC Research Hub for Australian Steel Innovation. Through his academic research, Matthew developed expertise in chemical engineering and process development, as well as a strong appreciation for translating fundamental research into real-world impact. His research background enables him to quickly understand complex technologies and work effectively with inventors across a broad range of technical disciplines.

Matthew is a registered Australian and New Zealand Patent Attorney.