Currently enrolled in Minnesota Law’s Master of Science in Patent Law program, Dr. Rohit Singh brings a wealth of experience into the classroom with him. Hailing from Chandigarh, India, he holds a Ph.D. and M.S. in Organic Chemistry from the University of New Orleans and an M.S. in Physical Chemistry and B.S. in Chemistry from Panjab University.

You have a strong background in science, including a Ph.D. in chemistry. Can you discuss a little bit about the work you have done in the sciences?

I have a master's degree in physical chemistry and another in organic chemistry. My doctoral research focused on developing ligands for metal-mediated chemical transformations, and environment-friendly organic catalysts. In my postdoctoral career, I worked on anti-HIV therapeutics. At my current position, my projects are focused on anticancer drugs, and non-addictive analgesics for the alleviation of pain.

Your academic work has taken from India to New Orleans. How did wind up in Minnesota?

I developed an interest in medicinal chemistry during my graduate research, so I pivoted toward it for postdoctoral work. I had heard about the University of Minnesota's Center for Drug Design (CDD) at a national meeting of the American Chemical Society. I found a postdoctoral position here, and Minnesota has been home ever since.

How did you connect with/ become aware of the Masters of Science in Patent Law Program at the University of Minnesota?

A chance meeting with an M.S. in Patent Law alumna brought the program to my attention. I contacted the director of the program, Professor Christopher Turoski. He answered all my questions and explained everything about the program to me.

What motivated you to enroll in the program?

Prior to joining the program, I had filed a provisional patent application based on the research from one of my projects. During that process, I got the opportunity to work closely with the University of Minnesota's Office of Technology Commercialization. Gaining that experience piqued my interest in the field of patent law. 

What are you hoping to do with what you learn in this program?

With the rigorous training offered by this program, I will be well equipped to help bridge the gap between state-of-the-art technological innovations and their applications to the market. I am also looking forward to expanding my opportunities for learning via exchanging ideas with innovators and inventors while helping realize the best commercial value for their technologies.

What is your favorite thing about the program so far?

I have thoroughly enjoyed the courses I have taken throughout the program. Several of these courses have been taught by practicing attorneys from the Twin Cities. area. Each instructor brings a real-world perspective and a lifetime of experience to the class.

What advice would you offer someone pondering enrolling in the M.S. in Patent Law program? 

I would tell them that 90% of the graduates from the M.S. in Patent Law program find employment within one year of graduation and that 100% of the program students receive scholarships.  I would also tell them that the median salary of a patent agent is about $120k. I would probably tell them the salary thing first.

What makes you passionate about patent work?

In my current job, I've worked directly with the director of C.D.D., Professor Robert Vince. Several years ago, he was at the forefront of the well-known patent infringement lawsuit against Glaxo (Regents of the University of Minnesota v. Glaxo Wellcome, Inc.). Favorable outcomes to his case attest to the significance of a robust work ethic in patent law. It could not only help in achieving successful outcomes in contested issues, it could help avoid the disputes altogether.

What are some of your hobbies/ interests?

I like riding motorcycles, watching movies, solving crosswords, and lifting moderately heavy things up and putting them back down at the gym. I got into downhill skiing in 2019. I am hoping to get better at it this year.

How do you like to spend your free time?

My favorite thing to do is to hang out with my middle schooler. She is hilarious! Also, I bought a house last month and started a few DIY projects. I always thought I was useless when it comes to being handy, but now, thanks to YouTube, I am something of a mason/carpenter/painter myself!

What are a few things you enjoy about being located in Minnesota?

The best thing about Minnesota is the people of Minnesota. I have lived in a few different places in the country. Minnesotans are the warmest and most kind-hearted people. Skol!