Standards and Patents/Open Source Software

The CryptoWorks21 program is excited to host this IP Management Lunch and Learn Lecture Series. This fifth lecture will be held on April 11th in QNC1501 from Noon to 1pm.

It is open to all members of CryptoWorks21, the Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) and the Centre for Applied Cryptographic Research (CACR). Space is limited, please RSVP to Chin Lee by April 4th.

Abstract:

Standards and Open Source raise interesting questions with regard to IP, including philosophical views on what “should” be patented. This session will discuss benefits and pitfalls of the various systems and strategies for working with them.

Biography

Neil Henderson is an intellectual property lawyer and partner in the Waterloo Region and Toronto offices of Gowling WLG. Registered as a patent and trademark agent in both Canada and the U.S., he delivers strategic legal advice on all matters related to IP portfolio management, particularly to clients in the technology and advanced research sectors.

With comprehensive expertise in IP procurement and enforcement strategy, Neil offers services spanning initial patentability and use/registration searches and opinions through to the preparation and prosecution of patent and trademark applications. His practice also covers the following areas:

• IP agreements — licensing, distribution, manufacturing
• Copyright protection
• Internet, social media and regulatory policy
• Commercial transactions — IP aspects of mergers and acquisitions, financings

Neil’s clients benefit from his diverse background in international IP law. He spent several years working in Japan, where he was immersed in the country’s dynamic technology and research sectors. As a result of his time abroad, he is conversant in Japanese and maintains strong relationships with key business leaders in Japan and throughout East Asia.

Neil is heavily involved in both international and local IP/technology organizations. He is a member of INTA and AIPLA, where he serves as co-chair of the IP Practice in Japan Committee. He is an active member of Communitech, a Waterloo Region-based commercialization hub for innovative technologies, and is a director of the Greater Kitchener-Waterloo Chamber of Commerce.

In recognition of his leading expertise and commitment to delivering practical, effective service to his clients, Neil is consistently ranked as a top IP lawyer by prestigious publications such as Managing Intellectual Property, IAM Patent 1000 and WTR 1000.