Ralph McNeilage is a patent agent in the Boston office of Morrison Foerster. His practice focuses on patent prosecution and IP due diligence, with an emphasis on plant biology, biochemistry, and biotechnology.

With extensive research experience in protein biology, organelle function, and membrane biophysics, Ralph’s doctoral research at UC Davis focused on protein transport mechanisms in plant cells, work that has been published in leading scientific journals including The Plant Cell.

Before joining the firm, Ralph served as a science editor at a scientific editing firm, where he provided feedback and analysis on scientific manuscripts across diverse technical fields. He also taught high school chemistry from the introductory to the advanced placement level for six years, developing strong skills in communicating complex scientific concepts to varied audiences.

Ralph’s technical background spans biochemistry, biophysics, plant biology, and protein chemistry. He has mentored undergraduate and high school researchers in laboratory techniques, data analysis, and scientific writing.

Ralph earned his Ph.D. in biochemistry and molecular biology from the University of California, Davis, and his B.S. in honors biochemistry and cellular and molecular biology from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, graduating magna cum laude.