Infinite Careers is a collaboration between Career Services (CAPD) and the MIT Alumni Association to explore career paths and the non-linearity of career decision-making. Read profiles of alumni with unique career paths, hear their stories, and network at a series of talks.
Education
- University of Madras – Electrical and Electronics Engineering
- India Director’s Gold Medal
- MIT – Master Of Science, 6M – Electrical Engineering
- Kabcenell Future Energy Fellow 2004
- Suffolk University Law School – Doctor of Laws, Intellectual Property Concentration
Bio
Sivananda (Shiv) Reddy serves as Intellectual Property Counsel at ZOLL Medical Corporation, a leader in medical device technology focused on enhancing patient outcomes through innovative resuscitation and acute critical care solutions. ZOLL’s advanced medical products and software empower clinicians, EMS, fire professionals, lay rescuers, and military personnel to provide life-saving care daily. Shiv plays a crucial role in building, protecting, and enforcing ZOLL’s global intellectual property (IP) portfolio in alignment with the company’s strategic objectives.
Shiv began his career in science and engineering in India, later moving to the United States to attend MIT to deepen his expertise in high voltage engineering. He encountered various opportunities and challenges in Cambridge and the Boston area that ultimately led him to discover his true calling in the legal field. With over two decades of experience in legal IP matters across both law firms and corporate environments, Shiv has established himself as a seasoned legal professional. He began his legal career as a patent agent (technology specialist) at K&L Gates, LLP, and Fish & Richardson P.C. following his graduation from MIT. While working, Shiv pursued his law degree at Suffolk University Law School, attending evening classes over three and a half years and graduating with distinction. He later served as an IP litigation associate at Fish & Richardson before transitioning to ZOLL.
Throughout his career, Shiv has managed all aspects of innovation development, collaborating with international teams of scientists and R&D professionals across the United States, Europe, Israel, China, and Japan. His expertise includes patent drafting and prosecution, IP-related dispute resolution, including negotiation and litigation in state and federal courts, the US and European Patent Offices, and the International Trade Commission. A recognized thought leader, Shiv is adept at managing business-critical know-how and implementing corporate IP and trade secret policies.
What influenced your choice of undergraduate major? How has it shaped your career choices and professional ability?
During my early years studying the sciences, I was particularly drawn to electromagnetism. I eagerly anticipated assignments and projects that involved electricity, electromagnetism, and electronics. Today, I’ve channeled that passion into a career in technology law, specializing in the medical technology field of cardiac resuscitation through electrical therapies.
What influenced your choice of graduate program/programs? How has it/have they shaped your career choices and professional ability?
After graduating from MIT, I decided to pursue a legal career. As a social person with a passion for technology, policy, and debate, becoming a lawyer was a natural choice that aligned with my interests and strengths.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of your career?
I have the privilege of working with exceptionally talented individuals who, despite their natural strengths, rely on my expertise in navigating complex legal and IP challenges. There’s a deep sense of fulfillment in meeting these critical needs, and my specialized skills have made my career both rewarding and impactful.
What professional development activities do you find really useful these days?
I actively seek opportunities to give back to the communities that have shaped my career. The MIT community and other local networks and groups have provided me with more than just academic knowledge—they instilled in me a deep sense of professional confidence. Over two decades in Cambridge and Boston, I’ve been fortunate to benefit from the guidance of its leaders, the support of professional colleagues, and friendships that have flourished here, as well as the insights gained from casual and even transactional encounters. To express my gratitude, I now serve as a career and professional development advisor, giving back to the very communities that played a pivotal role in my own growth.
What do you like to do outside of work for fun/relaxation/inspiration?
I love to listen to audiobooks. I try to use my free time to constantly improve my knowledge or health in some way. I also love to be physically active – I love to run, cross train, and play sports like basketball, soccer, and rugby.
Do you participate in any volunteer/community service activities? If so, how do you balance your professional and personal responsibilities?
Yes, I serve as the president of the local Parent Teacher’s Association of the Elementary School that my child attends in Lexington, MA.
Last edited: September 2024
