Garrett K. Atkinson

Garrett served as a primary examiner and senior technical expert with the USPTO, where he managed a diverse portfolio of complex and high-profile technologies, including wearable devices, virtual reality (VR) systems, and smart fitness equipment for leading global companies. Over the course of his thirteen-year career there, Garrett was recognized for consistently exceeding production and quality benchmarks, as well as for his ability to navigate complex negotiations. In addition to his examination work, he mentored several junior examiners, many of whom have gone on to become primary examiners and achieve recognition for performance excellence. Garrett was frequently called upon to advise on complex legal and technical issues and led internal training programs addressing nuanced patent law topics and examination strategy.

Garrett’s experience spans a broad range of technologies, including fitness, rehabilitation, surgical, and dental devices, as well as interdisciplinary innovations involving both hardware and software.

Prior to serving as a patent examiner, Garrett conducted research in nanomaterials and physical chemistry at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), where he co-authored multiple peer-reviewed publications in leading scientific journals. His research focused on nanocatalysts, graphene-based materials, and photothermal effects, contributing to widely cited advancements in the field.

Garrett serves on the Biomedical Engineering (BME) Advisory Board at VCU, where he has helped shape the BME curriculum, assisted with Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) accreditation efforts, mentored students, and graded senior design projects.