Overview
Erica is an intellectual property attorney who helps life sciences innovators protect and advance their most important scientific breakthroughs. With a background that spans molecular biology, biochemistry, gene therapy, plant science, and biologics, she focuses on building strong, strategic patent portfolios that support clients through every stage of development—from early-stage research to commercialization. Her work includes patent preparation and prosecution, freedom-to-operate analyses, licensing, and portfolio strategy across technologies such as viral delivery vectors, adenoviruses, immunotherapies, antibodies, plant and agricultural innovations, and protein purification methods.
Erica partners closely with researchers, technical founders, and R&D teams to understand their science deeply and translate it into robust IP protections. Her approach is grounded in both scientific fluency and practical experience—whether she is guiding clients through the complexities of USPTO practice, helping them anticipate regulatory or commercialization challenges, or identifying opportunities to strengthen the long-term value of their innovations. Before becoming an attorney, Erica led technology transfer efforts at major research institutions, giving her a unique perspective on how discoveries move from lab bench to marketplace.
Recognition
- Phi Beta Kappa
Professional & Community Involvement
- American Intellectual Property Law Association (AIPLA)
- AUTM
- Technology transfer leadership roles supporting research communities at multiple research institutions (Boyce Thompson Institute and Donald Danforth Plant Science Center)
Experience
- Develop patent strategies for life sciences clients, including innovators in gene therapy, biologics, immunotherapy, plant science, and diagnostics.
- Prepare and prosecute U.S. and international patent applications involving viral delivery vectors, adenoviruses, antibodies, drug-targeting constructs, and protein purification methods.
- Provide freedom-to-operate analyses, licensing support, portfolio assessments, and due diligence for biotechnology and life sciences companies.
- Advise research and business teams on intellectual property strategies throughout the R&D and commercialization lifecycle.
Prior to GTC
- Associate, Day Pitney LLP
- Associate, Hamilton Brook Smith & Reynolds P.C.
- Director of Technology Transfer, Boyce Thompson Institute
- Director of Technology Transfer, Donald Danforth Plant Science Center
- Biochemist, Sigma-Aldrich (now MilliporeSigma)
Testimonial
“I’m committed to helping innovators turn scientific insights into protected, scalable assets. My goal is always to meet clients where they are—scientifically and strategically—and deliver clear, actionable IP guidance that empowers their next breakthrough.”