Seth D. Levy
Partner / Leader, Intellectual Property Practice
Introduction
Seth focuses his practice on intellectual property protection, licensing, strategy, and disputes, as well as research transactions and operations, particularly in life sciences and healthcare. He handles a range of technology and clinical research matters, and advises technology transfer programs at academic and healthcare institutions. Seth also acts as outside general counsel to technology-driven companies. He is the leader of the firm’s Intellectual Property practice.
My focus
Technology Transfer
I support tech transfer programs at universities, research institutes and academic medical centers. My experience includes patent procurement and portfolio management, coordinating complex research arrangements, negotiating commercial transactions involving IP, resolving related disputes and coordinating IP enforcement activities. I also advise on the development and expansion of tech transfer programs; the operation of incubators, accelerators, and venture funds; and the revision of institutional IP policies to reflect contemporary tech transfer issues. I am intimately familiar with tech transfer operations and the unique environment in which these programs exist.
IP and Research Transactions
I represent academic and healthcare institutions and life sciences companies in technology and research-driven transactions. I also work with companies in the private sector that do business with these institutions. My work in this area includes drafting and negotiating license agreements, joint research and development agreements, clinical trial agreements, sponsored research agreements, consulting agreements, and a range of other corporate transactions to effectuate deals in the arenas of research, healthcare, and IP.
Outside General Counsel
I serve as outside general counsel to emerging growth and mid-stage life sciences companies, supporting their businesses in this complex ecosystem. Coordinating with other specialists at the firm when needed, I guide our clients’ fundraising efforts, intellectual property strategy, partnering deals, board governance matters, and their full range of operational issues.
Representative experience
Technology Transfer
- Represent The Regents of the University of California in a groundbreaking patent enforcement campaign to protect its rights in a revolutionary new generation of light bulb technology known as filament LED that was invented by a Nobel laureate-led team at UC Santa Barbara. The campaign includes litigation before the U.S. International Trade Commission, the U.S. District Courts for the Central District of California and Eastern District of New York, and the Patent Trial and Appeal Board at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
- Represent Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, a nonprofit hospital and multi-specialty academic health science center, on a range of patent prosecution and tech transfer matters, including licensing and spin-off transactions, equity investments, research and technology development collaborations and IP enforcement. A recent matter involved protecting the IP rights in a UV light therapy that combats secondary infections associated with COVID-19 and supporting licensing and third-party research contracting issues to develop a prototype and bring the technology to market.
- Represent the Eye-Bank for Sight Restoration, a NYC-based tissue bank, in establishing research and license agreements with the Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai in order for Mt. Sinai researchers to train Eye-Bank personnel to isolate retinal pigment epithelial cells from donated tissue for use in research and other purposes.
- Represent UC Santa Barbara in several iterations of negotiations with one of its biotech spinoffs. This work included restructuring UC Santa Barbara’s equity and license relationship with the company to address the complexities of the company’s sublicensing partnerships with numerous pharmaceutical companies.
- Represent Dignity Health, a California-based not-for-profit public-benefit corporation that operates hospitals and ancillary care facilities in several states, in patent prosecution matters as well as a range of other technology transfer issues, including revising its IP policy, supporting its material transfer agreement (MTA) contracting for its internal biobanks and other exchanges of research materials, and representing it in multiple license negotiations for biotech and digital health technologies.
- Represent the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) with a range of patent prosecution matters.
- Represent the University of Southern California (USC) with a range of patent prosecution and tech transfer matters.
- Represented Brown University in revising the template agreements for its tech transfer office.
IP and Research Transactions and Outside General Counsel
- Represented Seattle Children's Hospital in a licensing and clinical research collaboration with Cellevolve Bio to develop and commercialize a suite of novel multiplex CARs for the treatment of pediatric CNS malignancies. The cell therapy products are produced in Seattle Children’s GMP facilities, and are already in clinical trials.
- Represented CHA Biotech Co., Ltd., a Korean-based biotech company, in forming and managing a series of issues through a joint venture called Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine, Inc., which was established with Ocata Therapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a Advanced Cell Technology, Inc.) before Ocata was acquired by Astellas. The joint venture focused on the development of stem cell technologies.
- Represent Emmaus Medical, Inc., a specialty pharma company focused on rare and orphan diseases, such as sickle cell disease, for which the company’s Endari™ therapeutic has been approved, in clinical research matters, international pharmaceutical manufacturing, distribution and compassionate use transactions, a collaboration with Kainos Medicine, Inc. for preclinical development of IRAK4 inhibitor as potential anti-cancer drug, and a series of research and licensing transactions with The Lundquist Institute.
- Serve as outside general counsel to Serimmune Inc., an immune intelligence company developing new approaches for preventing, diagnosing, and treating a range of diseases. Recent matters included a research collaboration with Atreca, using Serimmune’s Serum Epitope Repertoire Analysis (SERA) platform to identify the targets of Atreca’s anti-cancer antibodies, a collaboration with Twist Bioscience to identify and evaluate SARS-CoV-2 therapeutic antibody candidates from Twist’s libraries using Serimmune's SERA platform, and in the launch of a COVID antibody epitope mapping discovery service which provides academic and biopharma researchers with ready access to Serimmune's SERA technology.
- Represented CMTx Biotech, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, in an exclusive, worldwide license agreement with Galderma Holdings, to develop and commercialize incyclinide, a clinical-stage, orally administered small molecule drug candidate for the treatment of hospitalized COVID-19 patients, among other potential therapeutic indications.
- Represent Codagenix, Inc., a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing prophylactic vaccines and oncolytic virus therapies, in a range of research and licensing transactions with both private-sector and government agencies, for its human and animal health programs. A recent matter involved the company’s collaboration with the Serum Institute of India to rapidly co-develop a live-attenuated COVID-19 vaccine.
- Represent Iotron Medical, a nuclear technology company, in various matters, including its collaboration with Canadian Isotope Innovations Corp. to produce the radioisotope copper-67 (Cu-67) for new cancer therapies, and various license and research transactions with Argonne National Laboratory.
- Represent the NARBHA Institute (f/k/a Northern Arizona Regional Behavioral Health Authority, Inc.), a nonprofit organization designated by the Arizona Department of Health Services to plan, implement, fund, monitor, and administer publicly funded comprehensive behavioral health services in Northern Arizona, in establishing a collaboration with TGen North to advance human health through the TGen One Health Collaborative—an initiative that recognizes the interdependence of people, animals, and plants in both the human-built and natural environments.
- Represented Alphazyme, a developer, manufacturer, and global distributor of molecular biology enzymes, in a sub-licensing agreement with Dyadic International, a global biotechnology company focused on improving and applying its proprietary C1 expression system to help drug developers and manufacturers bring biologic drugs to market. The sub-licensing agreement includes an equity stake, milestone payments, and royalties upon the commercialization of C1-expressed Alphazyme products.
- Represented HealthDent Technology International in the sale of its gutta-percha material technology business to Dentsply Sirona, a dental equipment maker and dental consumables producer.
- Represent El Camino Hospital in connection with clinical trial agreements with various medical device companies.
- Represented Global Pediatric Surgical Technology and Education Project, Inc. (a/k/a GPSTEP), a California-based nonprofit, in its collaboration with medical device manufacturer, SunMed, LLC, to distribute affordable surgical equipment to pediatric surgeons around the world.
- Represented OnTo Technology, a developer of advanced battery recycling solutions, in an agreement with Johnson Matthey, a global leader in sustainable technologies, to scale up OnTo’s patented process for the direct recycling of lithium-ion battery scrap. OnTo’s patented Cathode Healing process restores the coating material to be used in making new batteries. It avoids energy-intensive refining processes, significantly increasing manufacturing efficiency, lowering cost and the carbon footprint of batteries used to power electric cars.
Looking ahead
Technology transfer programs at universities and research institutions continue to evolve, deploying a growing range of programs and services to support the development and commercialization of academic innovations.
/Insights
- “Eureka! Now What? Intellectual Property for Researchers,” NSF ExFAB Bio Foundry, Santa Barbara, CA, May 21, 2025
- “IP and Strategic Alliances with Seth Levy,” CNSI at USCB, Santa. Barbara, CA, July 9, 2024
- “Understanding the Equity Portfolio for the Operations Team,” AUTM Annual Meeting, San Diego, CA, February 18-24, 2024
- “Lunch and Learn: IP in Strategic Deals,” University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, November 16, 2023
- “Biomanufacturing Facilities at Universities and Academic Medical Centers,” AUTM Western Annual Meeting, Newport Beach, CA, September 27, 2023
- “Incubating Investible Startups,” The BIANYS Webinar Series, April 17, 2023
- “Intellectual Property: a Practicum,” BioPACIFIC MIP Innovation 360 Meeting, Santa Barbara, CA, March 24, 2023
- “Under the Microscope: Microbiome IP Protection,” La BioSpace Meet and Greet, Los Angeles, CA, November 17, 2022
- “Tech Transfer Insights and Trends from the Experts,” 2022 AUTM Western Region Meeting, Portland, OR, November 8, 2022
- “IP Issues and Trends for Universities and AMCs,” In-House Counsel CLE Program for NYU Langone and New York University, November 4, 2022
- “Equity Considerations in University Startup Licenses,” Vanderbilt University, October 18, 2022
- “University Technology Transfer and Licensing Agreements,” Strafford Publications Virtual Webinar, October 11, 2022
- “IP/Legal Issues for Accelerator Companies,” Cedars-Sinai Accelerator, October 7, 2022
- “A Primer on Patent Monetization,” Tech Transfer Central’s - Best Practices for Monetizing Patents: A Virtual Summit, June 9, 2022
- “Tech Transfer Insights and Trends from the Experts,” AUTM 2021 Western Region Meeting, Virtual event, October 6, 2021
- “Legal Considerations for use of Human Tissue in Clinical Research,” Foresight 2021, Webinar, October 14, 2021
- “The essence of Intellectual Property protection for life science startups,” Startup Conversations by Lab Launch, Webinar, May 27, 2021
- “Regulatory Compliance for Hospital/Startup Partnerships,” KidsX Roundtable, Webinar, February 3, 2021
- “A Practical Guide to Patents and Trade Secrets for Small Businesses,” LA County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs - Bet Tzedek, Webinar, January 28, 2021
- “Strategic Approaches to IP Monetization in Tech Transfer,” IP Dealmakers Forum, Webinar, December 3, 2020
- “Update from the U.S.,” UK Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys (CIPA), Webinar, November 20, 2020
- “Anatomy of a License,” USC Stevens Center for Innovation, Webinar, November 10, 2020
- “Trends and Issues in Sublicensing University IP,” Stanford University Office of Technology Licensing, Webinar, August 5, 2020
- “Life Sciences Collaborations During the Pandemic,” USC Stevens Center for Innovation and USC Chapter of the National Academy of Inventors, Webinar, July 29, 2020
- “Startup Investing in a Changing Landscape,” Sustainable Change Alliance, Webinar, July 15, 2020
- “Collaborations During the Pandemic: Issues and Tips When Considering Partnerships,” BioLabs@NYULangone, Webinar, June 3, 2020
- “Intellectual Property Issues in Clinical Trials Agreements," UCLA In-House Team, Los Angeles, CA, March 11, 2020
- “Legal Issues for International Healthtech Companies," Cedars-Sinai Innovation Space, Los Angeles, CA, March 5, 2020
- “Direct Enforcement of University IP—A Case Study of UC Santa Barbara’s Enforcement of Patent Rights Against Retailers,” AUTM 2019 Eastern Region Meeting, Raleigh, NC, October 3, 2019, and AUTM 2019 Western Region Meeting, Seattle, WA, September 20, 2019
- “Advocacy 101,” It Gets Better Global Summit, New York, NY, June 27, 2019
- “Corporate Perspectives on Sourcing Early-Stage Innovation,” USC Innovation Summit, Los Angeles, CA, March 27, 2019
- “Current Trends in Sublicensing Academic IP,” University of California Fall IP Managers Systemwide Meeting, Santa Cruz, CA, November 6, 2018
- “Advancing the University’s Mission Through the Monetization of Intellectual Property,” AUTM 2017 Eastern Region Meeting, Boston, MA, October 3, 2017
- “Preparing Life Sciences Companies for Chinese Opportunities,” Office of Economic Development, Mayor Eric Garcetti, Los Angeles, CA, July 18, 2017
- “Building an IP Strategy,” LA BioStart Legal Basics Program, Los Angeles, CA, July 14, 2017, August 9, 2018, February 1, 2019, and July 26, 2019
- “Introduction to Tech Transfer,” LA Bioscience Hub, Los Angeles, CA, June 16, 2017
- “Navigating Through the Fog: Launching a Startup While Avoiding the Reefs,” UCSB Office of Technology & Industry Alliances, Santa Barbara, CA, May 11, 2017
- “Legal Issues for Digital Health Companies,” Cedars-Sinai Medical Center Healthcare Accelerator, Los Angeles, CA, February 16, 2017
In the news
- Idaho Statesman
Idaho law would block medication for some immigrants. Here’s what a judge said.
June 30, 2025The following article covers a lawsuit filed against Idaho health and government officials over a new state law that would impose immigrant verification requirements in programs that are not restricted under federal laws, including access to food pantries and soup kitchens, prenatal and postnatal care, and vaccines and life-saving medications to treat communicable diseases such as HIV. A NP team led by Los Angeles partner and Intellectual Property practice group leader Seth Levy joined the ACLU of Idaho, the National Immigration Law Center (NILC), and Ramirez-Smith Law in filing the lawsuit. The NP team also includes Washington, DC Complex Disputes partner Brian Whittaker; Intellectual Property associates Vince Capati and Jackie Relatores of Los Angeles, and Alvaro Dominguez of Chicago; Washington, DC summer associate Tanner Whitesell; and Washington, DC Complex Disputes senior paralegal Giselle Enchill. On Monday, a judge granted a temporary restraining order until a preliminary injunction hearing takes place on July 15. Additional coverage available upon request.
- Associated Press
Idaho doctor and patients sue over new law halting public benefits to immigrants in US unlawfully
June 27, 2025The following article covers a lawsuit filed against Idaho health and government officials over a new state law that would impose immigrant verification requirements in programs that are not restricted under federal laws, including access to food pantries and soup kitchens, prenatal and postnatal care, and vaccines and life-saving medications to treat communicable diseases such as HIV. A NP team led by Los Angeles partner and Intellectual Property practice group leader Seth Levy joined the ACLU of Idaho, the National Immigration Law Center (NILC), and Ramirez-Smith Law in filing the lawsuit. The NP team also includes Washington, DC Complex Disputes partner Brian Whittaker; Intellectual Property associates Vince Capati and Jackie Relatores of Los Angeles, and Alvaro Dominguez of Chicago; Washington, DC summer associate Tanner Whitesell; and Washington, DC Complex Disputes senior paralegal Giselle Enchill. On Monday, a judge granted a temporary restraining order until a preliminary injunction hearing takes place on July 15. Additional coverage available upon request.
- STAT News
What’s at stake in court hearing on NIH research indirect cost cuts
Feb 20, 2025This article includes commentary from Boston partner Hannah Bornstein, deputy leader of NP’s Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense practice, in connection with three lawsuits seeking to block cuts to indirect costs for research funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The article also references a recent client alert Hannah co-authored with Los Angeles partner and Intellectual Property practice group leader Seth Levy, Long Island partner and Healthcare practice group leader Lindsay Maleson, and Boston GIWC associate Sam Ryder.
- Managing IP
MIP + Talent Tracker annual review: Nixon Peabody’s aggressive hiring strategy pays off
Jan 29, 2025Los Angeles partner Seth Levy, leader of the firm’s Intellectual Property practice, is quoted in this article that features NP for leading the way in 2024 IP hiring volume. Seth discusses IPPG’s aggressive yet intentional recruitment strategy throughout the year, noting that while much of the hiring was in response to increased patent litigation demand, NP’s practice is always aligning resources to the interdisciplinary needs of clients across sectors.
- Los Angeles Times
Nixon Peabody leads in legal representation for an innovative, creative Los Angeles
Nov 17, 2024This advertorial highlights NP Los Angeles for its innovative client work across intellectual property, media and entertainment, and community development finance. Intellectual Property practice group leader Seth Levy, Corporate partner and Entertainment team leader Ellie Heisler, and Los Angeles Office Managing Partner Sonia Nayak, of the Community Development Finance practice, are mentioned in the content.
- Reuters
The Daily Docket
Nov 7, 2024The following article features the NP arrival of Washington, DC Intellectual Property partner Jamie Cooke, leader of the recently established Fintech & Financial Services IP team. Jamie is quoted in the coverage discussing what excites him about joining NP and how his background aligns with the role. Los Angeles partner Seth Levy, leader of the firm’s Intellectual Property practice, is also quoted, discussing the practice and firm’s strategic growth opportunity within the financial services sector.
- Law360
Nixon Peabody taps leader for new fintech IP group
Nov 5, 2024The following article features the NP arrival of Washington, DC Intellectual Property partner Jamie Cooke, leader of the recently established Fintech & Financial Services IP team. Jamie is quoted in the coverage discussing what excites him about joining NP and how his background aligns with the role. Los Angeles partner Seth Levy, leader of the firm’s Intellectual Property practice, is also quoted, discussing the practice and firm’s strategic growth opportunity within the financial services sector.
- Bloomberg Law
Nixon Peabody adds James Cooke as financial services IP partner
Nov 4, 2024The following article features the NP arrival of Washington, DC Intellectual Property partner Jamie Cooke, leader of the recently established Fintech & Financial Services IP team. Jamie is quoted in the coverage discussing what excites him about joining NP and how his background aligns with the role. Los Angeles partner Seth Levy, leader of the firm’s Intellectual Property practice, is also quoted, discussing the practice and firm’s strategic growth opportunity within the financial services sector.
- Law360
Nixon Peabody bolsters IP team with deputy chief, laterals
Sep 27, 2024This article covers the appointment of Chicago partner Dan Schwartz as deputy leader of NP’s Intellectual Property practice as well as the recent arrivals of IPPG counsel Matt Zuziak of Washington, DC and Randy Alexander of Chicago. Dan is quoted in the coverage, discussing his new role and the recent growth of the Intellectual Property practice. Matt and Randy discuss what attracted them to NP. Litigation Department head Tony Barron and IPPG practice group leader Seth Levy are also quoted from NP’s press release.
- The American Lawyer
California law firms staffing up intellectual property ranks to meet growing demand
July 30, 2024This article covers the upswing in intellectual property lateral hiring across California. Los Angeles partner Seth Levy, leader of the firm’s Intellectual Property practice, is quoted in the coverage, discussing the national growth of NP’s IP practice and the breadth and depth of the team.
- Law360
IP trio joins Nixon Peabody in California
July 10, 2024The following article features the NP arrivals of San Francisco partners Sasha Rao and Brandon Stroy, and Los Angeles partner Ashe Puri, all of the Intellectual Property practice. Sasha is quoted in the coverage, discussing what attracted the team to NP. Los Angeles partner Seth Levy, leader of the firm’s Intellectual Property practice, is also quoted, discussing factors and market conditions that are helping to drive the continued expansion of NP’s IP practice.
- Bloomberg Law
Nixon Peabody expands IP practice with three California partners
July 10, 2024The following article features the NP arrivals of San Francisco partners Sasha Rao and Brandon Stroy, and Los Angeles partner Ashe Puri, all of the Intellectual Property practice. Sasha is quoted in the coverage, discussing what attracted the team to NP. Los Angeles partner Seth Levy, leader of the firm’s Intellectual Property practice, is also quoted, discussing factors and market conditions that are helping to drive the continued expansion of NP’s IP practice.
- Law360
UK safety biz Halma buys medical tool maker for $89 million
Dec 20, 2023This article mentions NP for representing Halma PLC in its acquisition of TeDan, a group of companies that develop, manufacture, and supply medical devices to surgeons. The NP deal team was led by New York City Corporate partner Dan Belostock and also included Corporate partners Alexandra Lopez-Casero and Thomas McCord of Boston, Kevin Grant of New York City, and Shahzad Malik of Los Angeles; Boston Government Investigations & White-Collar Defense partners Hannah Bornstein and Brian French; Boston Labor & Employment partner Jeff Gilbreth; Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Seth Levy; Rochester Privacy & Technology counsel Jenny Holmes and Boston Corporate counsel David Crosby; Corporate associates Brian Kenney of Washington, DC and Tim Sharkey of New York City; Chicago IP associates Ben Rosborough and Eliana Torres; Los Angeles Labor & Employment associate Alice Kwak; Chicago IP senior paralegal Tim Fiester; and Chicago Corporate paralegal Astrid McGruder.
- Technology Transfer Tactics
Executive Order on domestic manufacturing brings both relief and concern for TTOs
Sep 18, 2023Los Angeles partner and Intellectual Property practice leader Seth Levy is quoted throughout this article on how a recent Biden administration Executive Order on “Federal Research and Development in Support of Domestic Manufacturing and United States Jobs” may affect technology transfer offices (TTOs). Among his comments, Seth mentions that he believes the order could ultimately help TTOs have a cleaner, more efficient experience with reporting and waivers.
- Technology Transfer Tactics
Lost gold in your portfolio? Forgotten patents can yield infringement revenue
Aug 17, 2023Los Angeles partner and Intellectual Property practice leader Seth Levy is quoted throughout this article, which discusses the importance for Technology Transfer Offices to audit their older patents for potential infringement and new revenue sources.
- Pomona College Magazine
Moonshots for Unicorns
Jan 6, 2023Los Angeles Labor & Employment partner (and Pomona College alum) Robert Pepple is quoted in this article, which highlights NP’s role in the creation of a nonprofit entity, Moonshots for Unicorns, which raises funding for research into cures for rare (i.e., unresearched) genetic disorders. The project came to NP’s attention through Robert’s Pomona College contact, Zach Landman and his wife, whose youngest daughter was recently diagnosed with a rare, but potentially curable, genetic disorder. The heavy lifting pro bono work was enthusiastically undertaken by Intellectual Property practice leader Seth Levy and IP resident attorney Freddy Lopez, both of Los Angeles. Robert also leveraged his contacts to provide the Landmans with free web-design and hosting, social media consulting, and nonprofit governance mentors.
- Law360
Federal Circuit shields Alaska Airlines source code in patent row
Jan 3, 2023This article covers a litigation win for client Alaska Airlines, in which the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit blocked Modern Font Applications LLC’s attempt to access the airline’s confidential source code in a patent infringement lawsuit involving non-standard fonts used in the airline’s mobile app. The NP team, led by Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Shawn Hansen, includes Los Angeles partner and IP practice group leader Seth Levy and Albany IP associate Erin Huntington.
- Bloomberg Law
Alaska Airlines discovery spat not reviewable, federal circuit says
Dec 29, 2022This article covers a litigation win for client Alaska Airlines, in which the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit blocked Modern Font Applications LLC’s attempt to access the airline’s confidential source code in a patent infringement lawsuit involving non-standard fonts used in the airline’s mobile app. The NP team, led by Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Shawn Hansen, includes Los Angeles partner and IP practice group leader Seth Levy and Albany IP associate Erin Huntington.
- Technology Transfer Tactics
As litigation funding gains acceptance, universities may seek more infringement cases
Dec 15, 2022Los Angeles partner Seth Levy, leader of the firm’s Intellectual Property practice, is quoted throughout this article, which details why more universities are taking advantage of litigation funding for patent infringement cases.
- The Recorder
On the Move - Tracking the ins and outs of California lawyers
This column on notable moves within the legal industry across California highlights Los Angeles partner and Life Sciences co-chair Seth Levy for his appointment as Intellectual Property practice group leader.Feb 18, 2022 - Pacific Coast Business Times
Attorney in UCSB case will lead Nixon Peabody IP team
This article features Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner and Life Sciences co-chair Seth Levy for his appointment as the firm’s Intellectual Property practice group leader.Feb 15, 2022 - Bloomberg Law
Wake up call
This roundup of notable industry news features the appointment of Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner and Life Sciences co-chair Seth Levy as leader of the firm’s IP practice.Feb 10, 2022 - Q Voice News
San Diego Crunch Fitness pays settlement in trans discrimination case
The following article covers the successful resolution of a long-running pro bono matter for which NP teamed with the ACLU to represent a transgender woman who was denied access to the women’s locker room at a gym in San Diego on more than 70 occasions. This denial of access clearly violated California’s Unruh Civil Rights Act, which bars discrimination in public accommodations. After more than three years, the parties reached a fair settlement. The NP team working on this case includes Intellectual Property partner and Life Sciences practice co-chair Seth Levy, Labor & Employment partner Michael Lindsay, and alum Erin Holyoke, all of the Los Angeles office.Dec 9, 2021 - Advocate
Trans woman wins settlement in suit against California gym
The following article covers the successful resolution of a long-running pro bono matter for which NP teamed with the ACLU to represent a transgender woman who was denied access to the women’s locker room at a gym in San Diego on more than 70 occasions. This denial of access clearly violated California’s Unruh Civil Rights Act, which bars discrimination in public accommodations. After more than three years, the parties reached a fair settlement. The NP team working on this case includes Intellectual Property partner and Life Sciences practice co-chair Seth Levy, Labor & Employment partner Michael Lindsay, and alum Erin Holyoke, all of the Los Angeles office.Dec 9, 2021 - Intellectual Property & Technology Law Journal
Post-expiration patent royalties-Developments since Kimble and practical considerations
Los Angeles partner Seth Levy and associate Vince Capati, and Washington, DC associate Alexis Grilli, all of the Intellectual Property group, contributed this article analyzing royalties due after a patent’s expiration—considered unlawful per se, in a rule upheld by the Supreme Court in 2015—and what it means for patent owners and licensees.Aug 20, 2021 - Forbes
‘It Gets Better’ gets new leadership
In this article, Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Seth Levy discusses the collaborative approach to a leadership change at the It Gets Better Project, where he is stepping down as president and chair of the board of directors to make way for Paul Dien. Seth, a founding member of the LGBTQ+ advocacy organization, will remain on the nonprofit’s board.May 3, 2021 - Technology Transfer Tactics
Litigation funding as a resource for university patent enforcement
Life Sciences practice co-chair and Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Seth Levy contributed this article on how litigation funding can address some of the more significant challenges for a growing number of universities pursuing patent enforcement campaigns.Feb 22, 2021 - Life Sciences Intellectual Property Review
Texas uni loses bid to shield cancer vaccine patents from IPRs
Feb 18, 2021Life Sciences practice co-chair and Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Seth Levy provides third-party commentary on sovereign immunity for disputes involving patents owned by state universities, after the University of Texas lost an appeal to review a ruling preventing it from using sovereign immunity to shield patents from inter partes reviews.
- World Intellectual Property Review
Five minutes with… Seth Levy, Nixon Peabody
Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner and Life Sciences practice co-chair Seth Levy is featured in this Q&A related to diversity in the intellectual property field, with a particular focus on LGBT+ History Month.Feb 17, 2021 - KIFI/KIDK News – Idaho
Former AG's file friend-of-the-court brief
This article covers an amicus brief filed with the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals by three former Idaho attorneys general, detailing why Idaho House Bill 500—which bars transgender women and girls from participating in school sports and subjects all women and girl athletes to the threat of invasive testing—is unconstitutional. In addition to the former AGs, more than 175 athletes joined Athlete Ally and the Women’s Sports Foundation in signing a brief, and the National Women’s Law Center and more than 60 other women’s rights and civil rights groups also filed an amicus brief. Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Seth Levy and Complex Commercial Disputes partner Sarah Erickson André, and Washington, D.C. Government Investigations & White Collar Defense partner Adam Tarosky are representing the former AGs.Dec 22, 2020 - Technology Transfer Tactics
UC Takes Next Step with Filament Light Bulb Case: Manufacturers and ITC
This article, covering the University of California’s patent enforcement campaign related to filament LED light bulbs, quotes Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Seth Levy extensively on a successful initial phase of the campaign, and a recent complaint filed with the U.S. International Trade Commission initiating the second phase. The NP team representing UC is led by Seth and Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Shawn Hansen.Oct 22, 2020 - Supply Chain Brain
UC Expands Patent Lawsuit Against Retailers and Manufacturers
The following article covers the U.S. International Trade Commission’s second investigation into leading retailers and suppliers of filament LED lighting products, based on a complaint filed by Nixon Peabody on behalf of the Regents of the University of California (UC). Supply Chain Brain quotes Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Seth Levy extensively on the expanded patent enforcement campaign. The NP team representing UC is led by Seth and Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Shawn Hansen.Oct 5, 2020 - Intellectual Property Magazine
Standing Apart
Intellectual Property partner and Life Sciences Practice co-chair Seth Levy and Intellectual Property counsel Peter Wied, both of Los Angeles, contributed this article, based on their alert, which examines the Gensetix Inc v Baylor College of Medicine case and a recent ruling to allow an infringement case to proceed without the state university patent owner’s involvement.Oct 1, 2020 - Bloomberg Law
Nixon says ITC probes retailers in patent infringement case
This article covers the U.S. International Trade Commission’s institution of a second investigation into leading retailers and suppliers of filament LED lighting products, based on a complaint NP filed on behalf of the Regents of the University of California (UC). Los Angeles Intellectual Property partners Seth Levy and Shawn Hansen are leading the NP team in UC’s LED patent enforcement campaign.Sep 30, 2020 - World IP Review
USITC targets Ikea and GE in bulb investigation
The following article covers the U.S. International Trade Commission’s second investigation into leading retailers and suppliers of filament LED lighting products, based on a complaint filed by Nixon Peabody on behalf of the Regents of the University of California (UC). Supply Chain Brain quotes Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Seth Levy extensively on the expanded patent enforcement campaign. The NP team representing UC is led by Seth and Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Shawn Hansen.Sep 30, 2020 - Times Higher Education
Investors Back Universities’ Fight for Share of Research Profits
This article discusses how the LED lighting patent enforcement campaign on behalf of the Regents of the University of California (UC) could chart a path for other universities to protect their innovations, as well as the role of litigation funding in the campaign. The article quotes Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Seth Levy.Sep 19, 2020 - Semiconductor Today
Nixon Peabody Expands Patent Enforcement Campaign for UCSB
This article, covering a recent complaint NP filed with the U.S. International Trade Commission on behalf of the Regents of the University of California (UC), quotes Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Seth Levy on the new litigation and the ongoing LED patent enforcement campaign.Sep 15, 2020 - LEDinside
UCSB Expands Patent Enforcement Campaign to Protect Its Filament LED Patents
This article covers a recent complaint NP filed with the U.S. International Trade Commission on behalf of the Regents of the University of California (UC), expanding the LED patent enforcement campaign with new litigation against six leading retailers and suppliers of filament LED lighting products. The NP team is led by Los Angeles Intellectual Property partners Seth Levy and Shawn Hansen.Sep 14, 2020 - Tech Transfer eNews Blog
Nixon Peabody Expands Patent Enforcement Campaign Over LED Technology Developed at UC Santa Barbara
The following article covers a new complaint filed with the U.S. International Trade Commission on behalf of the Regents of the University of California (UC), quote Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Seth Levy on the ongoing patent enforcement campaign. The complaint seeks an investigation into the unauthorized importation and sale after importation of UC’s patented filament LED lighting technology by General Electric, Savant Systems, Feit Electric, Home Depot, Ikea, and Satco Products.Sep 2, 2020 - LEDs Magazine
University of California Expands Its LED Lamp Patent Infringement Action
The following article covers a new complaint filed with the U.S. International Trade Commission on behalf of the Regents of the University of California (UC), quote Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Seth Levy on the ongoing patent enforcement campaign. The complaint seeks an investigation into the unauthorized importation and sale after importation of UC’s patented filament LED lighting technology by General Electric, Savant Systems, Feit Electric, Home Depot, Ikea, and Satco Products.Sep 2, 2020 - Pacific Coast Business Times
UC Files New Complaint in Lightbulb Licensing Dispute
This article, covering a new complaint filed with the U.S. International Trade Commission on behalf of the Regents of the University of California (UC), quotes Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Seth Levy on the ongoing patent enforcement campaign. The complaint seeks an investigation into the unauthorized importation and sale after importation of UC’s patented filament LED lighting technology by General Electric, Savant Systems, Feit Electric, Home Depot, Ikea, and Satco Products.Sep 1, 2020 - Law360
UC System Asks ITC to Probe Home Depot, Others Over LEDs
Aug 31, 2020An NP team led by Los Angeles Intellectual Property partners Seth Levy and Shawn Hansen on Monday expanded its groundbreaking patent enforcement campaign on behalf of the Regents of the University of California (UC). The following articles cover the new complaint, filed with the U.S. International Trade Commission, which seeks an investigation into the unauthorized importation and sale after importation of UC’s patented filament LED lighting technology by General Electric, Savant Systems, Feit Electric, Home Depot, Ikea, and Satco Products.
In addition to Seth and Shawn, the NP team includes Washington, DC Intellectual Property partner Evan Langdon; Los Angeles Intellectual Property partners Staci Riordan, Vincent Yip and Peter Wied, and associate Vince Capati; Chicago Intellectual Property associates Paulina Starostka and Angelo Christopher; San Francisco Complex Commercial Disputes associate Tracy Ickes; and Los Angeles patent specialist Jason Moore.
- Bloomberg News
'Edison' Bulb Battle Heats Up With University Targeting GE, Ikea
An NP team led by Los Angeles Intellectual Property partners Seth Levy and Shawn Hansen on Monday expanded its groundbreaking patent enforcement campaign on behalf of the Regents of the University of California (UC). This article covers the new complaint, filed with the U.S. International Trade Commission, which seeks an investigation into the unauthorized importation and sale after importation of UC’s patented filament LED lighting technology by General Electric, Savant Systems, Feit Electric, Home Depot, Ikea, and Satco Products. In addition to Seth and Shawn, the NP team includes Washington, DC Intellectual Property partner Evan Langdon; Los Angeles Intellectual Property partners Staci Riordan, Vincent Yip and Peter Wied, and associate Vince Capati; Chicago Intellectual Property associates Paulina Starostka and Angelo Christopher; San Francisco Complex Commercial Disputes associate Tracy Ickes; and Los Angeles patent specialist Jason Moore.Aug 31, 2020 - Tech Transfer Tactics
Universities should consider ITC for IP protection
Intellectual Property partners Evan Langdon of Washington, DC, and Shawn Hansen and Seth Levy of Los Angeles co-wrote this article explaining how the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) can be a “powerfully effective venue” for patent protection. Evan, Shawn, and Seth are leading the NP team representing the University of California in an investigation pending at the ITC concerning LED lightbulb technology. Read the full article on techtransfercentral.com.Feb 18, 2020 - TotalRetail
What the University of California case means for retailers and IP in the supply chain
This article analyzes the potential for lasting implications to the global supply chain as a result of the University of California’s (UC) patent enforcement campaign against several retailers selling filament LED lightbulbs. Los Angeles Intellectual Property partners Seth Levy and Shawn Hansen are the lead attorneys representing UC.Feb 13, 2020 - Pacific Coast Business Times
Central Coast tech firms, UCSB use litigation to protect patents
The article mentions Nixon Peabody’s ongoing representation of the Regents of the University of California in UC Santa Barbara’s patent enforcement matter, noting that a recent $1.1 billion verdict for the California Institute of Technology in another matter could bode well for UC Santa Barbara. Los Angeles Intellectual Property partners Seth Levy and Shawn Hansen are the lead attorneys representing UC.Feb 7, 2020 - The Hechinger Report
Think universities are making lots of money from inventions? Think again
In this article about the ways universities succeed or fail in monetizing their intellectual property, Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Seth Levy talks about NP’s patent enforcement work on behalf of the University of California.Jan 17, 2020 - Tech Transfer Central
University of California targets General Electric in campaign against patent infringement
This article quotes Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Seth Levy discussing Nixon Peabody’s representation of the University of California, which has sued General Electric as part of its ongoing campaign to enforce its patents on LED lightbulb technology. Seth and Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Shawn Hansen are leading the NP team.Jan 8, 2020 - Pacific Coast Business Times
UCSB adds GE to lawsuit defending LED patents
Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Seth Levy is quoted in this story covering the latest developments in UC Santa Barbara’s patent enforcement campaign to protect its LED lightbulb technology, including the addition of General Electric as a defendant. Seth and Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Shawn Hansen are leading the NP team.Jan 2, 2020 - Lawdragon
Michael Nicolas on Longford’s litigation finance focus on universities
In this Q&A, Longford Capital partner Michael Nicolas discusses the litigation financing for Nixon Peabody’s University of California (UC) campaign, led by Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Seth Levy, to protect UC’s rights related to filament LED technology developed at UC Santa Barbara.Oct 8, 2019 - SupplyChainBrain
A university lawsuit highlights the interdependence of global supply chains
This article focuses on the impact of Nixon Peabody’s LED lightbulb campaign across the supply chain. Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Seth Levy is quoted extensively in the piece.Sep 30, 2019 - Technology Transfer Tactics
UC lightbulb case may signal more aggressive infringement defense by schools
This article features Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Seth Levy discussing NP’s work representing the University of California in a first-of-its-kind “direct enforcement campaign” designed to protect UC’s patents covering LED lightbulb technology.Sep 25, 2019 - IP Watchdog
ITC investigates University of California complaint against Amazon and other major retailers
Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Seth Levy talks about Nixon Peabody’s representation of the University of California in an effort to protect the university’s rights related to filament LED technology developed at UC Santa Barbara. The article also mentions Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Shawn Hansen as co-lead counsel for UC in this case.Sep 19, 2019 - Law360
ITC to Probe Amazon, Walmart, Others in LED Patent Case
This article highlights recent developments in the University of California’s campaign to protect its rights related to filament LED technology developed at UC Santa Barbara. On Wednesday, the U.S. International Trade Commission opened an investigation in response to UC’s complaint, filed in July by the Nixon Peabody team led by Los Angeles Intellectual Property partners Seth Levy and Shawn Hansen.Aug 29, 2019 - Fast Company
Ikea, Amazon, and the billion-dollar war over light bulb design
This article highlights the University of California’s campaign to protect its rights related to filament LED technology developed at the university. An NP team led by Los Angeles Intellectual Property partners Seth Levy and Shawn Hansen is representing UC in this campaign.Aug 2, 2019 - Recorder/Law.com
It Gets Better CEO: For LGBTQ Professionals in Big Law, It Is Getting Better
This article, about the progress big law firms have made in support of the LGBTQ community, highlights Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Seth Levy and his role as chairman and CEO of the It Gets better Project. The story also links to Nixon Peabody’s It Gets Better video.June 28, 2019 - Law360
‘It Gets Better’ CEO Seth Levy on being out in BigLaw
Los Angeles Intellectual Property partner Seth Levy talks about his involvement with the It Gets Better Project and his experience as an openly gay man in the legal profession. Click here to read the full article.June 20, 2019 - Law360
LGBT pride: Weighing the state of equality in the law
San Francisco office managing partner Tom Gaynor and Los Angeles intellectual property partner Seth Levy are quoted in this story on the strides LGBT attorneys have made in the legal industry.June 1, 2018 - NPR
Hop on the Justice Bus: Next stop? Citizenship
Los Angeles office managing partner Seth Levy, partner Justin Thompson and associate Jessica Walker are quoted in this article about the Los Angeles office’s pro bono work with OneJustice’s Justice Bus to help low-income immigrant Green Card holders seeking U.S. citizenship.Aug 27, 2017 - American Lawyer
Overview: Big law gets smaller
This article features a number of new law firm office spaces. Los Angeles office managing partner Seth Levy is quoted in this article talking about NP's new Los Angeles office and some of its unique features including the outdoor rooftop terrace.Oct 31, 2016 - Daily Journal
Market Pressures Forcing Firms to Rethink Office Space
Los Angeles office managing partner Seth Levy is quoted in this article on how law firms are reevaluating their real estate needs. Seth references our approach to no corner offices and more collaboration areas in our new space.Sep 30, 2016 - Huffington Post
Transforming a Dinosaur: How the Legal Field is Embracing the Diversity Challenge
Manager of diversity & inclusion Rekha Chiruvolu, Los Angeles office managing partner Seth Levy and Los Angeles public finance associate Jade Turner-Bond are quoted in this article that highlights Nixon Peabody’s efforts to create an inclusive workplace.Sep 1, 2016 - Huffington Post
Grid110 - How a Group of Diverse Entrepreneurs are Shaping the Tech Ecosystem in Downtown LA
Los Angeles office managing partner Seth Levy is quoted in this article about Grid110, a start-up fashion tech organization with which Nixon Peabody is very involved.April 19, 2016 - Los Angeles Business Journal
UC Will Nurse Lab Inventions
This article focuses on a new $250 million independent fund created by the University of California to invest in research enterprises on its campuses. Los Angeles IP Counseling & Transactions partner Seth Levy talks about the research environment particularly for health care technologies and how it’s changed with regard to what it takes to get technology licensed or spun out.June 22, 2015 - Daily Journal
Don't Worry About Stem Cell Patents… Yet
Los Angeles office managing partner and IP Counseling & Transactions attorney Seth Levy and Los Angeles IP Counseling & Transactions patent agent Stephen Chen authored this column discussing a recently filed U.S. Supreme Court petition in the ongoing saga about the patentability of stem cells.Nov 18, 2014 - Daily Journal
The Past, Present and Future of Stem Cells
Los Angeles office managing partner Seth Levy and Los Angeles patent agent Stephen Chen co-authored this column looking at the state of stem cells and what’s next.Aug 27, 2014 - Daily Journal
Universities Seek More Legal Help on Export Control Compliance
Patents partner and Los Angeles office managing partner Seth Levy discusses export control compliance relating to increased federal enforcement attention on academic institutions bringing in top international talent.Feb 4, 2014 - Daily Journal
Firms Reinvent Office Managing Role Amid Changing Legal Environment
Seth Levy is among those Los Angeles–based office managing partners profiled for this story.Dec 20, 2013 - IP Copy
Patentable Subject Matter in the U.S.
Dec 17, 2013Los Angeles patents partner Seth Levy discusses the current state of case law in the U.S., the U.S. Supreme Court's Myriad decision and its aftermath, USPTO Guidance, and patent prosecution tips.
- Daily Journal
Enter the Academic-Entrepreneur
Los Angeles Patents and office managing partner Seth Levy authored this contributed article focusing on some of the pitfalls that exist for the academic-entrepreneur and the university technology transfer programs whose currency is those academician’s innovations.Nov 27, 2013
Admitted to practice
California
District of Columbia
Idaho
U.S. Court of Appeals, Federal Circuit
U.S. Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit
U.S. District Court, Central District of California
U.S. District Court, Northern District of California
U.S. District Court, District of Idaho
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Education
University of Southern California Law School, J.D.
Cornell University, B.S., Agricultural & Biological Engineering, cum laude
Professional activities
- Los Angeles Advisory Board, Biocom
- Board of Directors, It Gets Better Project
- Board Member, Better Together Animal Alliance
Recognition
- Selected, through a peer-review survey, for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® 2025 in the field of Biotechnology and Life Sciences Practice
- IAM Strategy 300—Ranked as one of the world’s leading IP strategists for licensing and technology transfer (2020–2025)
- IAM Patent 1000—Ranked as a leading California lawyer for transactions and prosecution (2014–2025)
- Managing Intellectual Property—Recognized as an “IP Star” (2020–2025)
- The Best Lawyers in America© 2020 and 2021 in the field of Biotechnology and Life Sciences Practice
- “Best LGBT Lawyers Under 40,” National LGBT Bar Association (2010)
- Inaugural recipient, Paul Davis Memorial Award for outstanding leadership in pro bono work, University of Southern California Law School (2004)
- Jack Berman Award of Achievement, recognizing a young lawyer who has provided outstanding service to the legal profession and public, as well as dedication to issues of concern to new and young lawyers, California State Bar (2005)
Insights And Happenings
View AllProfessionals in the Practice Area
View AllDaniel J. Schwartz
Partner / Deputy Leader, Intellectual Property Practice- Chicago
- Office:+1 312.977.4432
- djschwartz@nixonpeabody.com
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Erica J. Van Loon
Partner / Team Leader, Copyright, Trademark, & Media Litigation- Los Angeles
- Office:+1 213.629.6031
- evanloon@nixonpeabody.com
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Janet M. Garetto
Partner / Co-Lead, Food, Beverage, & Agribusiness IP Team- Chicago
- Office:+1 312.425.8514
- jgaretto@nixonpeabody.com
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Andrew Y. Choung
Partner / Co-Lead, Patent Mining & Monetization Team- Los Angeles
- Office:+1 213.629.6166
- achoung@nixonpeabody.com
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