(Aug. 2) – Foley Gardere enhanced its technology transactions and outsourcing practice with the addition of partner Dr. Guy Birkenmeier in Dallas, the firm announced on Wednesday.
Birkenmeier most recently practiced in the intellectual property group of Baker McKenzie. He says he had experience working with Foley & Lardner lawyers on transactions and the firm’s merger with Gardere in April “precipitated” the move for him.
“It is a great platform for collaborating to respond to clients’ business needs,” he says.
Birkenmeier points to Foley’s bench of between 40 and 50 attorneys who have advanced degrees. Before obtaining his J.D., Birkenmeier spent more than 10 years as a researcher of microscopy, molecular biology, biochemistry, chemistry and plant physiology.
Birkenmeier advises universities, Fortune 500 companies and energy startups on the intellectual property matters involved in technology transactions, particularly in the biotechnology and healthcare sectors. He says data use and privacy, the impact of Brexit and the U.S.-China business climate are key areas of concern for his clients.
Another area Birkenmeier is following is regulation questions surrounding plant science CRISPR technology at home and abroad.
“Texas is home to companies ranging from early-stage startups to international organizations, and nearly all of them have embraced the tech-centric mindset that drove the tech boom here in the early 2000s,” Michael Newman, managing partner of Foley Gardere’s Dallas office, said in a statement.
“Guy’s unique background as both a researcher and lawyer, combined with his understanding of the local and national markets, will make him an immediately sought-after advisor.”