Quentin Avila, Ph.D.
Technical Advisor, Chemistry
Quentin supports the firm through his expert knowledge and guidance in the field of chemistry and assists in preparing patent applications and various IP investigations.
Quentin has special expertise in small molecule design using in silico methods including molecular modeling, docking studies and molecular optimization and organic synthesis such as multistep synthesis, library generation and structural characterization. He has worked on a variety of drug discovery projects focused on addressing antibacterial resistance in Gram-negative bacteria and developing SARS-CoV-2 antivirals.
Education
- Doctor of Philosophy, Organic Chemistry, University of Oklahoma
- Master of Science, Organic Chemistry, University of Oklahoma
- Master of Engineering, Chemical Engineering, SIGMA Clermont, France
Honors and Awards
- COVID-19-Related Rapid Response Research Seed Grant 2020
- Program Fellow, Oklahoma Catalyst Researchers 2018
Publications and Presentations
- Structure-Uptake Relationship Studies of Oxazolidinones in Gram-negative ESKAPE Pathogens, Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 2022
- A Multi-Approach Strategy to Improve the Spectrum of ClpP Activators, American Chemical Society, Spring 2019 National Meeting, Presenter
- Recent Advances Towards Rational Antibacterial Discovery Addressing Permeation and Efflux, Vol. 52, Medicinal Chemistry Reviews, 2017
John Nielsen
Technical Advisor, Mechanical Engineering
John supports the firm with his technical experience as a recent mechanical engineering graduate from the University of Houston. His education focused on problem-solving in the fields of mechanical technologies, new materials, engineering sensors and medical devices. John has knowledge in fluid mechanics, dynamics, materials, and thermal and mechanical systems.
John has wide-ranging experience in preparing and filing patent and trademark applications in the US Patent and Trademark Office. At the firm, John is also responsible for corresponding with foreign counsel on patent and trademark prosecution and monitoring international patent and trademark portfolios. In addition, John’s experience includes patent searching using third-party search engines and services and other database systems to support the firm’s intellectual property practice.
Education
- Bachelors of Science, Mechanical Engineering, University of Houston
Honors and Awards
- The National Society of Leadership and Success, 2023
- William A. Brookshire Scholarship Award, 2022-2023
- Capstone Project, SLB Sponsor, Metal to Metal Galling Device, 2022-2023
- NCAA DIV II, Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference Champions, Men’s Swimming, 2017
- BSA Eagle Scout