Steven Sturlis, Ph.D.

Steve works with the firm’s attorneys and clients in preparing and prosecuting patent applications, devising prosecution strategy, and providing technical and legal research and analysis with respect to matters pending before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

In addition to domestic patent prosecution, Steve supports the international prosecution of patent applications. He is additionally skilled in preparing patent specifications, including the drafting of claims, and assisting attorneys in writing clear and concise scientific and technical documents. 

Highly organized and with meticulous attention to detail, Steve focuses on bridging the gap between science and the law. In addition to his academic achievement and technical know-how, Steve is valued for his strong writing and analytical skills and his ability to conduct detailed analysis of patent-related matters.

Steve’s training and background in biochemistry, drug discovery research, and organic chemistry provide him with a heightened sensitivity to the underlying principles and challenges inherent in such disciplines, as well as the requisite technical insight to analyze new disclosures in greater depth. Steve’s broad base of scientific experience allows him to quickly get up to speed with technologies from fields outside his core technical acumen, while also cultivating associated strengths in market analysis, competitive landscaping and commercialization strategy.

Prior to working in-house with law firms, Steve held a fellowship with the University of Michigan Office of Technology Transfer, where he analyzed nearly 50 unique inventions born of cutting-edge research conducted at the university. These inventions arose from a wide range of scientific disciplines – from the chemical and biological sciences to mechanical engineering, materials science, energy technology and behavioral sciences.