March 13, 2023
This Women’s History Month, Let’s Detroit is honoring metro Detroit women making an impact, ranging from business owners to students and Let’s Detroit Ambassadors. This week, we are featuring Let’s Detroit Ambassador Pranita Dharmadhikari. Read her responses below about what it’s like working in the intellectual property information research industry as a woman, then connect with her on her Ambassador profile.
This interview has been edited for clarity.
I am Pranita, founder and chief executive officer of Innocelf, an intellectual property (IP) information research firm based in Macomb, Michigan. We at Innocelf support innovators by providing insights and knowledge used during IP protection, product development, and commercialization.
Intellectual property information research is a critical component of the IP industry. It provides the data and analysis needed to inform strategic planning, policy development, licensing negotiations, litigation, and other IP-related activities. This field is interdisciplinary, drawing on knowledge and techniques from the law, STEM, and business.
Intellectual property information researchers work in various settings, including government agencies, academic institutions, private research firms, consulting firms, and corporations. They use multiple tools and techniques to gather and analyze IP-related information, such as database searches, statistical analysis, and text mining.
Overall, intellectual property information research is essential for ensuring that IP information is accurate, up-to-date, and accessible to those who need it and for providing decision-makers with the data and insights needed to make informed decisions about IP-related matters.
Women’s history in the IP information research field goes hand-in-hand with women’s history in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) because most IP information professionals require a STEM degree. Women’s history in STEM is long and complex, marked by progress and challenges. Women have been making significant contributions to STEM fields for centuries. Still, they have often faced significant obstacles in pursuing careers in these areas due to societal and cultural biases and limitations. Despite the progress, there is still work to be done to promote diversity and inclusiveness in the IP information research field.
I was born and raised in the western part of India in Mumbai. My parents introduced me to innovation and its value early in my life. Being an artist and an engineer, my father was vigilant about monetizing his inventions. I was fascinated by the idea of monetizing creations and making a living out of them. During my undergraduate studies, my team and I created a prototype for a pharmaceutical metal detector device prototype. We received the first prize during the annual tech fest organized by the Indian Pharmaceutical Association. Such events in my early life helped me pursue a passion for pharmaceutical science research and introduced me to what it takes to be an inventor. The urge to support others like my family absorbed me in the captivating concepts of pharmaceutical science and patent law.
Being a woman in the IP information research industry can be both rewarding and challenging. On the one hand, women in the industry bring a unique set of skills and perspectives that can help to drive innovation and creativity in the field. For example, women may get strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to think outside the box when approaching complex problems.
The IP information research industry has the potential to become more inclusive and accessible for women by implementing practices such as promoting diversity in hiring, offering flexible work arrangements, supporting professional development and career advancement, fostering a positive workplace culture that values diversity, encouraging collaboration across teams, and engaging with diverse communities. These strategies can help to attract and retain female talent, promote innovation and creativity, and create a more dynamic and inclusive industry. By prioritizing diversity and inclusiveness, the industry can benefit from the unique perspectives and experiences that women bring to the field.
What should other women know before considering a career in intellectual property research?
Women considering a career in IP information research should be aware that this field offers numerous opportunities for growth and advancement. Strong analytical skills, with the ability to analyze complex technical and legal matters, are essential for success in this field. In addition, it is crucial to stay up to date with the latest patent law and technology developments through continuous learning and professional development. A supportive work environment, with mentorship and collaboration, can make a significant difference in helping women navigate their careers and reach their full potential. Networking with other professionals in the industry can also provide valuable connections and insights. Women considering a career in IP information research should look for companies and managers who value diversity and inclusiveness and seek out supportive networks and mentorship opportunities to help them succeed and make a positive impact in the field.
For women looking to get into the IP research field, I advise them to pursue relevant education and gain experience through internships or part-time work in patent-related areas. Developing analytical, research, and technical writing skills, building a network, and finding a mentor can also be beneficial. It’s essential to be persistent and keep going even if a job doesn’t come right away, as with perseverance and dedication, women can succeed in this field.
