Patent law

Was looking at alternative career paths with my degree (Biochemistry) and found out about patent agents. There is quite a small number of them in the uk so was wondering if anyone had any info on completion for spaces in companies and such

Competition*

The Patent Agent profession is quite a small profession. I think that the competition for training places may be comparable to competition for training opportunities at commercial law firms and in barristers' chambers. Therefore: very competitive, but not impossible for those with good science degrees.
I have a friend who studied physics and he has a great career as a Patent Agent, doing "Hard IP" work for international tech clients. Hard IP, as you may know, involves patents, trademarks, and industrial design rights. Soft IP involves copyrights, passing-off, and database rights.
You could also look into training to be a solicitor or barrister, and focusing on IP (or other fields, according to what interests you).
Good luck, whatever path you choose.