Reputed for its technology expertise, Morrison Foerster is frequently sought out by biotechnology innovators for its expertise in licensing, venture capital and commercialisation. Other areas of expertise include IP protection, acquisitions, dispute resolution and compliance. The practice is led by seasoned trio Chuan Sun, Gordon Milner and Janet Xiao. Shanghai’s managing partner Sun is particularly adept in complex corporate and commercial transactions intersecting life sciences and technology, as well as cross-border data transfers and regulations. Milner splits his time between Hong Kong and Singapore and is equipped to handle pharmaceutical and biotechnology cross-border data transfers and IP matters. Xiao is reputed for IP advisory, particularly US and China cross-border transactions and operations, assessing risks and due diligence, with extensive experience in cancer immunotherapy, gene editing and antibody manufacturing patent issues.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- The team has strong industry expertise and demonstrated a deep understanding of the complexities involved in healthcare M&A, particularly when working with global industry leaders. This transaction required both top-tier M&A execution and sector-specific healthcare knowledge. The firm's M&A and healthcare partners collaborated seamlessly to provide comprehensive, specialised support across all aspects of the deal.'
- 'I was particularly impressed by their pragmatic and results-oriented negotiation style. By striking the right balance between firm advocacy and strategic flexibility, the team helped us achieve our key commercial goals without delaying the timeline. Their commercial acumen helped to reach consensus on critical terms while maintaining a constructive, solution-focused dialogue.'
- 'The firm played a central coordinating role, aligning our listing counsel, auditors, and internal finance team. They acted as the command centre, driving clarity on timelines, deliverables, and risk mitigation strategies across all stakeholders. ’
‘Rongjing Zhao has worked with our company for over five years and has earned deep trust across our management teams, including BD, legal, HR, and finance. Zhao worked directly with our HR head to design a smooth transition plan, which allowed our deal team to stay focused on the broader commercial negotiations.
'We value the firm's institutional knowledge of our company and the continuity they provide. The team advising us on this deal provided real-time, responsive support throughout. That level of dedication is especially valuable today, when many international firms are scaling back in China. ’
'The team has consistently been insightful, efficient and supportive. ’
Key clients
- OcuMension Therapeutics
- Ally Bridge Group
- Celadon Partners
- EdiGene
- Jamieson Laboratories Ltd
- Triastek
- OcuMension Therapeutics
- Ally Bridge Group
- Celadon Partners
- EdiGene
- Jamieson Laboratories Ltd
- Triastek
Lawyers
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Chuan Sun; Gordon Milner; Janet Xiao
Other key lawyers
Rongjing Zhao