Associate
Drawing from his degree in biochemistry and hands-on experience in diagnostics and organic chemistry, Michael Nielsen brings scientific depth to intellectual property (IP) strategy. His practice focuses on helping life sciences innovators protect breakthrough technologies and secure competitive advantages.
Michael has experience in patent and trade secret litigation in U.S. district courts, where he advocates for client’s IP rights. He also assists clients with patent drafting, patent prosecution, and IP strategy matters.
Before starting his legal career, Michael contributed to cutting-edge research working under Dr. David Michaelis while pursuing undergraduate studies in biochemistry. After completing his undergraduate studies, he worked as a laboratory technician for a leading diagnostics innovator.
Michael maintains an active pro bono docket, including representing veterans in their efforts to receive discharge upgrades before military discharge review boards. He was recently recognized on the Virginia Access to Justice Commission Pro Bono Service Honor Roll.
Federal Circuit IP Blog
Federal Circuit Says PTAB’s Delay Is Not a Reviewable “Shenanigan” Under APA Federal Circuit Says PTAB’s Delay Is Not a Reviewable “Shenanigan” Under APA
February 2, 2026
At the PTAB Blog
“Fundamentally Different Technology” Argument Almost Leads to IPR Referral “Fundamentally Different Technology” Argument Almost Leads to IPR Referral
September 18, 2025
At the PTAB Blog
Acting Director’s Incorporation by Reference Makes Discretionary Denial Decision Short and Sweet Acting Director’s Incorporation by Reference Makes Discretionary Denial Decision Short and Sweet
August 6, 2025
Federal Circuit IP Blog
“Do It With AI” Not Enough – Federal Circuit Strikes Down Machine Learning Patent under § 101 “Do It With AI” Not Enough – Federal Circuit Strikes Down Machine Learning Patent under § 101
May 28, 2025
Federal Circuit IP Blog
False Claims of Patent Protection at the “Sole” of Lanham Act Case False Claims of Patent Protection at the “Sole” of Lanham Act Case
October 29, 2024
Award/Ranking
61 Finnegan Attorneys Recognized on the 2025 Capital Pro Bono Honor Roll 61 Finnegan Attorneys Recognized on the 2025 Capital Pro Bono Honor Roll
May 7, 2026
Award/Ranking
56 Finnegan Attorneys Recognized on the 2024 Capital Pro Bono Honor Roll 56 Finnegan Attorneys Recognized on the 2024 Capital Pro Bono Honor Roll
April 24, 2025
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