After earning a Ph.D. in cancer biology from Northwestern University, I spent a few years in a lab but decided research work was not the right career path for me. I learned about the possibility of a career in patent law from a friend who is an attorney. While I wasn’t interested in pursuing a law degree, MBHB allowed me to put my biology background to work as a patent agent.
I joined MBHB as a technical advisor and then took the patent bar exam to become a registered patent agent with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. As a patent agent, I perform technical analyses, draft patent applications, prosecute patent applications in front of examiners, coordinate with foreign associates, and manage client engagements.
At MBHB, I am able to work creatively and independently but also enjoy great mentorship and support from attorneys across the firm. I am also able to mentor new technical advisors that join the firm. Most importantly, I am able to use my academic background and the experience I’ve gained in the legal industry to help inventors protect biotech innovations.