Michael J. Bastian, Ph.D.

Michael Bastian serves as Counsel in PLG’s Intellectual Property Practice. With over 20 years of legal expertise, including ten years as in-house counsel and nine years at major law firms, Michael is a highly accomplished Intellectual Property attorney with a rare blend of business, scientific and legal acumen. His practice focuses on developing IP strategies and patent portfolios, and negotiating strategic agreements that transform scientific innovations into valuable, legally protected business assets.

As a former Chief Intellectual Property Counsel, Michael led significant initiatives that extended drug product life-cycle, enhanced the company’s IP strategy, secured critical investments, and streamlined legal processes. His in-house experience as Chief IP Counsel allows him to relate to his clients needs in a no-nonsense business focused manner, that protects and drives value for his clients -be they large multinational corporations or new technology startups.

Representative Experience

• Proven IP leadership: More than nine years as Chief IP Counsel, where he managed patent groups and oversaw portfolios of more than 1,000 active cases.
• Cost-savvy portfolio strategy: Skilled at maximizing IP protection while driving down outside counsel spend—ensuring patents remain both valuable and efficient to maintain.
• Scientist at the table: A former research chemist at the Air Force Office of Scientific Research labs, Michael brings a deep understanding of the science behind his clients’ innovations.
• Breadth across industries: Trusted advisor to companies in pharmaceuticals, biotech, medical devices, nanotechnology, polymers, semiconductors, photovoltaics, and advanced materials.
• Lifecycle and dealmaker insight: Extensive experience guiding clients through pharmaceutical life cycle management, licensing, M&A, and collaboration agreements.
• Litigation and regulatory edge: Background in patent litigation and Hatch-Waxman matters gives him a 360-degree perspective on risk and enforcement.
• Technical fluency: Hands-on experience with plastics, polymers, nanoparticles, spectroscopy, proteomics, and software gives him a unique ability to translate complex science into strong IP strategies.