Matthew Bresnahan

Matthew Bresnahan is a seasoned legal advisor in biotechnology and patent law, guiding life sciences companies across Southern California. He focuses on intellectual property strategy, patent prosecution, licensing, and related legal needs in biotech, therapeutics, genomics, and medical devices. His guidance supports clients from startup stages through IPOs and mergers.

Matthew earned his B.S. in Biochemistry from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, in 2004. He completed his J.D. at the University of San Diego School of Law in 2007. His background in science and law helps him advise companies on protecting complex biomedical innovations and navigating regulatory and commercial frameworks.

Matthew has led a team of more than 30 patent attorneys and agents, offering IP services to over 50 clients. Matthew manages U.S. and global patent portfolios and supports investors through due diligence in venture funding and acquisitions. He also drafts FTO analyses, opinion letters, and IP licensing agreements.

Matthew has represented public companies such as Prometheus Biosciences, RxSight, DermTech, ImmunityBio, Oncternal Therapeutics, Scopus Biopharma, and NantHealth in patent matters related to offerings and SEC reporting. His trial experience before federal courts and the Patent Trial and Appeal Board strengthens his client advisement.

Matthew’s leadership roles include serving on the Board of Governors for Biocom California and the Board of Visitors at the University of San Diego School of Law. He has also taught patent law as an adjunct professor and advises Cal Poly’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

Matthew Bresnahan is admitted to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, multiple federal courts, and the State Bar of California. Recognized in Chambers USA and IAM Patent 1000, he is known for strategic thinking and creative legal solutions tailored to the life sciences sector.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati
• Member, Biocom California
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, American Intellectual Property Law Association
• Member, Los Angeles Intellectual Property Law Association
• Member, San Diego Intellectual Property Law Association
• Member, State Bar of California

Licensed State

• California

Education

• University of San Diego School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• California Polytechnic State University
  Bachelor of Science (BS)

Awards & Badges