Sean O’Brien is a registered patent agent who assists attorneys in patent prosecution matters including patentability searches and drafting of patent applications; Office Action responses to relevant government agencies; and client correspondence. He provides support in litigation matters, such as document review and case research. Sean joined Patterson Thuente IP in 2021 as a participant in the firm’s IP law clerk program for students in law school.

Professional Experience
Prior to law school, Sean worked as a mechanical engineer intern at a manufacturer for converting paper and other wet or dry substrates. In this role, Sean created and updated parts and assembly models using CAD software, converting over 1,300 part files to new company standards.

As a graduate student, Sean—using finite element analysis—performed research studying water tree degradation in underground medium voltage cables found in nuclear power plants. Using specific energy absorption rate as a measure of degradation, Sean performed a novel assessment of the cable insulation degradation.

Outside of the office, Sean enjoys reading, 3D printing, exercising and spending time with friends.