Professional Overview

John Sears is an intellectual property strategist and advisor to universities, technology companies, and investors developing advanced science and engineering innovations. With experience spanning venture capital IP leadership, university tech transfer, research laboratories, and private practice, he offers a sophisticated blend of legal, technical, and business insight.

John has overseen hundreds of patent matters involving biotechnology, chemistry, pharmaceuticals, polymers, materials science, nanotechnology, medical devices, imaging technologies, semiconductors, advanced electronics, and artificial intelligence. His pragmatic approach emphasizes aligning IP strategy with commercial goals and helping clients bring breakthrough technologies to market. A Ph.D. chemist, published author, and experienced educator, John frequently presents at major scientific conferences and remains active in AUTM

He is a Certified Licensing Professional.

Practice Focus

Intellectual Property Strategy & Prosecution:

• • Patent portfolio development and global prosecution
  • Freedom-to-operate evaluations and competitive analysis
  • Trademark strategy and brand protection
  • Trade secret policies and IP risk reduction

Technology Commercialization & Licensing:

• • University technology transfer and licensing support
  • Spin-out planning and commercialization strategy
  • Technology partnership agreements and IP valuation

Venture Capital & Private Equity Support:

• • Pre-investment IP diligence for early-stage and growth-stage companies
  • Portfolio IP strategy development and oversight
  • Transactional and governance support for venture-backed entities

Startup & Corporate Counseling:

• • Corporate formation and structuring
  • Capital raising and investor readiness
  • Technology transactions, strategic partnerships, and commercial agreements

Technical Domains:
Biotechnology, chemistry, pharmaceuticals, polymer science, materials science, nanotechnology, medical devices, imaging technologies, semiconductors, advanced electronics, and AI/ML.

• • State Bar of Arizona (2025)
  • Certified Licensing Professional (2019)
  • State Bar of Georgia (2018)
  • USPTO Registered Patent Attorney (2014)

• • IAM 300 Top Global IP Strategist, 2023, 2024, 2025

Education