KLARQUIST NEWS
Klarquist Welcomes Two New Partners and New Managing Partner in 2021
Klarquist is pleased to welcome Carsten Grellmann and Ryan Heck to the firm’s partnership effective January 2021, and to announce Todd Siegel as the firm’s new managing partner.
Carsten Grellmann joined Klarquist as a summer associate in 2011 before becoming a full-time associate in 2012. As a member of the firm’s patent prosecution group, Carsten specializes in mechanical and electro-mechanical technologies including medical devices and surgical instruments for both human and veterinary applications, semiconductor device fabrication systems, automotive technology, packing technology, and sporting goods, as well as in computer-related technologies including semiconductors and software. Carsten was recently named to Best Lawyers’ “Ones to Watch” list for 2021 for patent law and patent litigation. He earned his J.D. from Michigan State University and a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Oregon State University. In his free time, Carsten enjoys cycling and hiking, and spending time with his wife and 2-year-old.
Ryan Heck, Ph.D. joined Klarquist as a lateral associate in 2004, before a hiatus to take on the role of Director of the Technology Transfer Office for Klarquist clients UNR (University of Nevada, Reno) and Desert Research Institute (DRI). He rejoined the firm in 2015, specializing in patent acquisition and enforcement, primarily in the field of computer science, including technologies related to database systems and applications. Ryan’s technical expertise spans many areas including computer science, chemistry, biotechnology, chemical engineering, material science, and mechanical devices. He earned his J.D. at the University of Colorado School of Law and his Ph.D. in chemistry from UNR. Ryan also holds a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and has taken extensive coursework, including at the graduate level, in computer science and engineering. Outside of the office, Ryan enjoys travelling, hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, training for marathons, and spending time outside with his wife and three children.
“Congratulations to Carsten and Ryan on their hard work and exceptional technical and legal expertise. We are excited to start off 2021 welcoming them to the partnership,” said Todd Siegel, Managing Partner.
Todd transitioned into the role of managing partner effective January 2021. Todd is an experienced litigator with particular expertise handling post-grant challenges before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB). His technical expertise spans a wide range of technologies, including mechanical, software, operating system, and internet technologies. Todd joined the firm’s partnership in 2007 and previously served both as Klarquist’s litigation department chair and as managing partner from 2012-2013. He earned his J.D. as well as a B.S. in industrial engineering from the University of Missouri, Columbia. Outside of the office, and when not home with his family, Todd can be found on a tennis court.