Connie Merlino is a partner of the firm and heads the Sydney computing and electronics team. She is known for delivering commercially focused patent advice and for building long‑standing relationships with large international companies, as well as startups and universities. Connie joined FB Rice in 2000 and specialises in the drafting and prosecution of patent specifications across a wide range of ICT technologies. Her practice focuses on patent prosecution in Australia and the major commercial markets of Asia, with technical experience spanning software, telecommunications, data communications, security, databases and imaging. She has expertise in imaging, artificial intelligence, quantum computing and complex application software across industries including mining, logistics, finance and manufacturing. Connie also advises on patent oppositions before the Australian Patent Office and provides strategic guidance on patent portfolios, infringement matters and licensing arrangements, giving her strong practical insight into the ongoing impact of Aristocrat Technologies Australia v Commissioner of Patents. She is a registered Australian Patent and Trade Marks attorney.