Intellectual Property Essentials for Grad Students

Join us for an engaging online seminar designed to help graduate students understand the critical role of intellectual property (IP) in research and innovation. This session will cover institutional IP policies, strategies for protecting your work, and common pitfalls to avoid. We’ll also be joined by an experienced IP lawyer who will share real-world insights into patents, copyrights, and commercialization. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge on safeguarding your academic and entrepreneurial endeavors!

Meet our speaker: Chris Webb, PhD

Innovation & Commercialization Lead | TMU | Former Strategic Advisor, IPON
Dr. Webb leads Toronto Metropolitan University’s Innovation & Commercialization in the Office of Vice President of Research and Innovation and recently served as Strategic Advisor for Intellectual Property Ontario (IPON). At IPON, he designed and launched a multi-million-dollar program supporting IP and tech transfer across Ontario’s post-secondary institutions.

With more than 20 years of experience spanning Harvard, Stanford, and executive roles in both academia and industry, Dr. Webb specializes in evaluating early-stage technologies, advancing licensing strategies, and supporting research-based startups. His work bridges innovation and impact, helping teams turn ideas into real-world solutions.

Meet our speaker: Shahrzad Esmaili

Partner, Gowling WLG | Canadian & US Registered Patent Agent
Join us for an exclusive webinar with Shahrzad Esmaili, a leading expert in intellectual property law with over 15 years of experience. A proud graduate of Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU), where she earned two master’s degrees in electrical and computer network engineering, Shahrzad combines deep technical knowledge with legal expertise to help innovators protect cutting-edge technologies.

TMU graduate students and post-docs from all disciplines are invited to attend. This session qualifies for the Future Smart program.

Please contact l2mutic@torontomu.ca if you require any accommodations to ensure your inclusion in this event.