Co‑sponsored by Where Do I Go From Yale? (WDIGFY), this STEM PhD Pathways event spotlighted how scientific expertise can power a legal career safeguarding innovation. On February 28, 2025, Miho Kaneko (Senior Associate & Patent Attorney, Goodwin Procter) traced her journey from Yale chemistry labs to global IP strategy, offering insider tips for researchers intrigued by patent law.
During this session, Dr. Kaneko explored:
- How patent law bridges science and legal strategy — and where STEM PhDs fit in
- Practical steps for moving from research to IP‑focused roles — internships, law‑school options, and on‑the‑job training
- Core skills for a patent practitioner — analytical writing, client counseling, portfolio management, and due diligence for deals
- Common challenges when transitioning from bench to bar — and proven tactics to overcome them
Miho Kaneko, PhD, Senior Associate and Patent Attorney, Goodwin Procter
Dr. Miho Kaneko obtained her PhD in Chemistry from Yale in 2015. She is a patent attorney at Goodwin Procter in Boston and specializes in global IP strategy, patent prosecution, patent counseling, and portfolio management. She also has extensive experience in IP diligence related to various business transactions. Dr. Kaneko is an Advisory Trustee of Yale Graduate School Alumni Association Board and a Mentor for student ventures at Tsai CITY.
This event was co-hosted by Qi Yan and Hao Xie, McDougal Fellows at the Office of Career Strategy.
