The only way to inspire future innovators and creators is by enabling them to harness the power of intellectual property to drive positive impact and societal progress.
Prity Khastgir, our next pathbreaker, operates her own boutique Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) consultancy firm with a focus on Cyber laws, Global Intellectual Property laws, International commercial mediation and advising conglomerates on combating Cyber Crime.
Prity talks to Shyam Krishnamurthy from The Interview Portal about choosing a career as a Patent Attorney as it brings together the diverse fields of science, law, and business with the sole objective of supporting innovations !
For students, Intellectual property law is a dynamic and multifaceted field that requires a combination of technical expertise, legal acumen, and strategic thinking.
Prity, please tell us what were your initial years like?
Growing up in New Delhi within a family of medical professionals, with both my parents being doctors, I was naturally inclined towards the field of science and medicine from very early on. My educational journey began in an Army school, followed by transitioning to St. Francis de School in Janakpuri. Throughout my schooling, I actively participated in various extracurricular activities such as debates, writing, dance, and one-act plays, often securing trophies in competitions both within and outside of school. Serving as the sports captain further honed my organizational skills and instilled a strong sense of teamwork over the years.
The blend of education from both Army and convent schools instilled in me values of integrity and provided invaluable advantages. My early interest in the field of law stemmed from my participation in debate competitions. Engaging in debates not only honed my public speaking skills but also sparked a curiosity about the intricacies of argumentation and legal reasoning.
Understanding the importance of wisdom in navigating diverse scenarios and making informed decisions, I realized its relevance not only in legal matters but also in the daily activities of an entrepreneur. This fascination with law deeply influenced my problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities, fostering a profound appreciation for the intricate dynamics of legal frameworks and their practical applications in both business and everyday life.
Additionally, my passion for music, which I began training in from the age of four, and my keen interest in sports, particularly skating, significantly influenced my formative years. These diverse experiences and interests laid the foundation for my future career path, fueling my desire to pursue a field that seamlessly integrated science, creativity, and collaborative teamwork.
What did you do for graduation / post graduation?
I did my BS in Food, Microbial and Chemical Technology from Delhi University. I subsequently did a masters in Biotechnology from University of Rajasthan and then did a LLM (Bachelors of Law).
During my undergrad academic journey, a pivotal moment occurred when I discovered my passion for Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) while studying with the World Trade Organization (WTO) curriculum during my food technology honors at the University of Delhi. This newfound interest led me to pursue a master’s degree in Biotechnology from the University of Rajasthan. During the final year of my master’s program, I successfully cleared the Indian Patent Agent exam conducted under the Ministry of Commerce, marking the beginning of my journey in the field of patent law.
While working as a patent engineer for KPO unit HQ in the Greater New York City Area, I simultaneously enrolled myself in law school. It was a strategic move to deepen my understanding of the legal framework surrounding intellectual property. It provided me with a comprehensive knowledge base to navigate complex patent laws and regulations effectively. Balancing work and studies were demanding, but the synergy between my professional experience and academic pursuits enriched my learning journey.
Being selected as a Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women scholar in 2013 was a pivotal moment in my journey towards leadership and entrepreneurship. This prestigious program, offered in collaboration with esteemed institutions like the Indian School of Business (ISB) and Bimtech, Greater Noida, provided a transformative opportunity to enhance my skills and knowledge in management and entrepreneurship. The Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women initiative is emblematic of the belief that empowering women through education and entrepreneurship can drive meaningful socio-economic change. Through this program, I was able to access world-class education, mentorship, and resources tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities faced by women in business.
What were some of the drivers that influenced me to pursue such an offbeat, unconventional and uncommon career?
Choosing a career as a Patent Attorney was a culmination of diverse influences and experiences that converged to align my passion for science, law, and marketing with the dynamic field of intellectual property. The journey began with my academic background in food science and biotechnology, where my pursuit of knowledge in these fields laid the foundation for my future endeavors. Graduating with a master’s degree in biotechnology further solidified my interest in leveraging scientific expertise in innovative ways, leading me to envision a career focused on dry lab research and intellectual property.
The evolving landscape of patent law, particularly in India, played a pivotal role in shaping my decision to pursue a career as a Patent Attorney. With amendments to Indian patent law in 2005, opportunities emerged for individuals with scientific backgrounds to contribute to the field of innovation and invention. This shift in legislation not only opened doors but also provided a first-mover advantage for those seeking to enter the patent law domain, setting the stage for my entry into this fascinating field.
Throughout my journey, significant events served as catalysts for further exploration and specialization in patent law. The advent of the internet revolutionized consulting practices and international laws, presenting new avenues for professional growth and global engagement. Working with clients across 140+ countries exposed me to the complexities of international patent consultancy, enriching my understanding of diverse legal frameworks and expanding my scope of expertise in the field. These turning points underscored the interconnectedness of science, law, and business, reinforcing my conviction to pursue a career as a Patent Attorney.
The opportunity to integrate scientific knowledge with legal acumen in the protection and promotion of innovation resonated deeply with my professional aspirations. Embracing this multidisciplinary approach, I embarked on a path that not only aligned with my interests but also offered a platform to make meaningful contributions to the advancement of technology and intellectual property rights on a global scale.
How did you plan the steps to get into the career you wanted? Or how did you make a transition to a new career? Tell us about your career path
Mapping out my career path towards becoming a Patent Attorney involved a deliberate process of aligning my academic background, professional experiences, and evolving industry trends with my aspirations in intellectual property law. Starting with my education in food science and biotechnology, followed by a master’s degree in biotech, I recognized the potential to integrate my scientific expertise with legal principles in the realm of innovation and invention.
During my college days, I gained practical experience through an internship at the food technology lab at ITC, Maurya Sheraton. Here, I immersed myself in the intricacies of food science as a food microbiologist trainee, honing my skills and understanding of laboratory practices. Additionally, I demonstrated my creative prowess by developing a novel product during my undergraduate studies: a pumpkin cake. Recognizing its innovative potential, I took proactive steps to protect my intellectual property by filing a patent application for the pumpkin cake.
The pivotal shift in Indian patent law post-2005 presented a strategic opportunity for individuals with scientific backgrounds to venture into the field of patent law. Recognizing this opening, I leveraged my diverse skill set and enthusiasm for both science and law to pursue a career as a Patent Attorney. This decision was further reinforced by my desire to engage in dry lab research and contribute to the evolving landscape of intellectual property rights. As I embarked on this journey, significant events such as the internet’s impact on consulting practices and international laws played a crucial role in shaping my career trajectory.
Working with clients across diverse geographical locations provided first hand exposure to the complexities of international patent consultancy, further solidifying my commitment to this dynamic field. My transition into patent law was marked by a strategic alignment of my skills, interests, and industry opportunities. By carefully planning each step and leveraging emerging trends in patent legislation and global consulting, I navigated a path that enabled me to pursue my passion for innovation while making meaningful contributions to the legal domain.
How did you get your first break?
My journey into the professional world began during my school days when I secured my first break as a brand ambassador for Gurucool.com, an education startup in India. Representing my school, St. Francis De Sales School, as a brand ambassador provided me with early exposure to the dynamic intersection of technology and education. This opportunity allowed me to engage with fellow students who were technology-savvy, sparking discussions on the potential of bringing education online.
As a brand ambassador, I had the privilege of collaborating with a dedicated brand manager who facilitated monthly meetups for us to brainstorm and strategize on how to integrate technology into education effectively. These gatherings fostered an environment of innovation and collaboration, where we explored ways to leverage the internet to revolutionize the learning experience. Despite being ahead of its time, the education startup faced challenges in fully realizing its potential in the nascent online education landscape of that era.
What were some of the challenges you faced? How did you address them?
One of the major challenges we faced during those years was the limited accessibility of the internet. Unlike today, where internet connectivity is ubiquitous, back then, internet access was not yet widespread, especially in households. This posed a significant hurdle for the education startup, as widespread adoption of their solutions relied heavily on users having access to the internet.
To address this challenge, we adopted a multi-faceted approach aimed at overcoming barriers to internet accessibility:
Community Engagement: Recognizing that internet connectivity was not universal, we focused on engaging with communities to raise awareness about the benefits of online education. This involved organizing outreach events, workshops, and seminars in schools and local communities to demonstrate the value of digital learning platforms.
Where do you work now? What problems do you solve?
Currently, I operate my own boutique Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) consultancy firm while also serving as a stakeholder and legal counsel for several enterprises globally. In my current roles, I solve a variety of problems related to intellectual property. This includes assisting clients in protecting their inventions through patent drafting and prosecution, registering trademarks to safeguard their brand identities, managing copyright issues, and advising on strategies for intellectual property portfolio management.
Additionally, I provide legal counsel on matters such as licensing agreements, IP infringement disputes, and compliance with intellectual property laws and regulations.
What skills are needed for your role? How did you acquire the skills?
The job requires a diverse set of skills encompassing technical expertise, legal knowledge, and strategic thinking. Essential skills include legal research and analysis, drafting legal documents, negotiation, communication, and project management. I acquired these skills through a combination of formal education, including a background in law and specialized training in intellectual property law, as well as practical experience gained through internships, work placements, and professional development opportunities.
What’s a typical day like?
A typical day in my role involves a blend of tasks such as conducting legal research on intellectual property issues, drafting legal documents such as patent applications or licensing agreements, communicating with clients to understand their needs and provide legal advice, attending meetings or negotiations, and managing administrative tasks related to running my consultancy firm. Each day presents new challenges and opportunities, requiring flexibility, adaptability, and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
What is it you love about this job?
What I love most about my job is the opportunity to work at the intersection of law, technology, and business, and to make a tangible impact by helping clients protect and leverage their intellectual property assets. I find fulfillment in the intellectual challenge of solving complex legal issues, the opportunity to work with innovative companies and individuals, and the satisfaction of knowing that my expertise contributes to their success and growth. Additionally, the autonomy and flexibility of running my own consultancy firm allow me to pursue my passion for intellectual property law on my own terms.
How does your work benefit society?
My work also involves human capacity building and promoting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 17 and 11. Through my consultancy firm, I not only assist clients in protecting their intellectual property rights but also prioritize initiatives aimed at empowering individuals and communities to understand and leverage intellectual property for their benefit. By providing training, workshops, and educational resources on intellectual property law and entrepreneurship, I contribute to building the capacity of aspiring innovators and entrepreneurs, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the global marketplace.
Additionally, my advocacy for SDGs 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) and 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) reflects my commitment to collaboration and sustainable development. I actively seek partnerships and collaborations with like-minded organizations, government agencies, and civil society groups to promote inclusive innovation ecosystems, foster entrepreneurship, and create opportunities for sustainable economic growth. By working together towards common goals, we can amplify our impact and address complex challenges facing society, such as poverty, inequality, and environmental sustainability, in a holistic and collaborative manner.
Tell us an example of a specific memorable work you did that is very close to you!
One specific memorable work that is very close to me is when I helped a small startup navigate a complex trademark infringement dispute. The startup had developed a revolutionary product in the renewable energy sector and was facing challenges from a larger corporation that was attempting to use a similar trademark for their own product. I provided legal counsel to the startup, guiding them through the process of enforcing their trademark rights and defending against the infringement claims. Ultimately, we were able to reach a favorable resolution through negotiation, allowing the startup to continue operating under their trademark and protecting their brand identity.
Your advice to students based on your experience?
Based on my experience, my advice to students interested in pursuing a career in intellectual property law or entrepreneurship is to embrace curiosity, continuous learning, and perseverance. Intellectual property law is a dynamic and multifaceted field that requires a combination of technical expertise, legal acumen, and strategic thinking.
Seek opportunities to gain practical experience through internships, clerkships, or volunteer work, and never stop expanding your knowledge base through ongoing education and professional development. Additionally, cultivate strong communication and problem-solving skills, as these are essential for effectively advising clients and navigating the complexities of intellectual property law and business.
Future Plans?
In the future, I plan to collaborate with like-minded individuals to build products and initiatives aimed at educating and empowering the next generation, particularly Gen Z, to understand and appreciate intellectual property rights (IPRs). I believe that fostering a culture of respect and understanding for intellectual property from a young age is crucial for promoting innovation, creativity, and ethical behavior in the digital age. By leveraging technology and innovative educational approaches, I aim to demystify IPRs and inspire future innovators and creators to harness the power of intellectual property for positive impact and societal progress.