Cooley has launched a life sciences practice in London with a double partner hire from fellow US firm Reed Smith.

The hires are the second and third for the London newcomer since its headline-grabbing launch in the capital in January.

Last week, Cooley announced that it has signed up former Olswang corporate partner Stephen Rosen, who is yet to join the firm.

Reed Smith partner John Wilkinson's practice focuses on biotech and medical technology companies on a range of transactional, intellectual property, regulatory and antitrust matters.

Wilkinson is joined by life sciences partner Nicola Maguire, who specialises in advising life sciences companies on collaborations, M&A, joint ventures and other negotiated transactions.

Maguire hinted that she expected some Reed Smith clients to follow the pair to Cooley. She said: "With its extensive footprint in all aspects of the representation of life sciences companies, Cooley is a natural fit for our practices and for our clients.

"We're extremely impressed by the current team already in place in London, and we're excited to be a part of a firm that is committed to building such a differentiated presence in Europe."

Wilkinson added that Cooley had "platform and prestige in the life sciences sector".

He said: "With the London office now established, the timing couldn't be better to explore the natural synergies that we can collectively bring to a global client base."

The firm declined to comment on whether Wilkinson and Maguire are set to bring any associates with them.

The hires bring Cooley's London partner headcount to 22, following its 20-strong partner launch in January.