Christopher Lacenere, Ph.D., focuses his practice on patent portfolio development and prosecution in the life sciences sector. Based in Merchant’s Boston office, Chris works with universities, startups, and research-driven companies to protect innovations across a range of technologies, including gene editing, RNA interference, protein-drug conjugates, oligonucleotide therapeutics, and biologics. He also advises clients developing medical devices and agricultural biotech products, as well as technologies outside of life sciences such as rotary engines and semiconductor manufacturing.
Chris combines technical depth with strategic IP counsel, helping clients align their patent strategy with long-term business goals. He has extensive experience managing global portfolios, conducting due diligence, and guiding early-stage companies through the patent process. His industry and academic background enables him to work fluently across complex scientific disciplines, with particular insight into cutting-edge molecular biology and diagnostics. In addition to patent prosecution, Chris has contributed to complex life sciences litigation, supporting trial teams and expert witnesses on issues of infringement, invalidity, and claim construction.
Chris earned his J.D., cum laude, from Suffolk University Law School and holds a Ph.D. in Biology from the California Institute of Technology. He conducted his doctoral research on novel nucleic acid sequencing technologies and worked in industry validating bioactivity of therapeutic leads and evaluating high-throughput screening platforms. He is a member of the Alan D. Lourie Boston Intellectual Property Inn of Court and has been recognized in Massachusetts Rising Stars by Super Lawyers.