Michael (“Mike”) McHugh graduated from the University of Strathclyde, Scotland, earning a First-Class Honours Degree in Chemistry and a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry. Mike became a Registered Canadian Patent Agent in 1997.

Mike has worked in-house at a number of research-based pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, as well as in private practice. Before becoming a patent professional he worked for a number of years as a research scientist, in both academic and industrial settings.  Mike has been involved in matters relating to chemical and pharmaceutical compounds, biotechnology and proteomic products and processes, monoclonal antibodies and rubber technology.

Mike has extensive experience in patent drafting and prosecution, as well as in patentability and freedom to operate analyses. Mike has prosecuted and managed worldwide patent portfolios for a number of research-based companies, and has been involved in the strategy and negotiations for in-licensing and out-licensing of technology and pharmaceutical products.  Mike also has experience in negotiating research-related agreements, including material transfer and sponsored research agreements.