Mahnu Davar

Mahnu Davar is an Adjunct Professor of Law at the University of Pennsylvania Law School and a Partner at Arnold & Porter LLP in Washington, DC, where he specializes in life sciences and healthcare regulatory law. His practice centers on FDA compliance, government investigations, clinical research ethics, and regulatory strategy for pharmaceutical, biologic, and medical device companies.

Education:

• B.A., Johns Hopkins University, Phi Beta Kappa
• J.D., University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, 2007
• M.A. in Bioethics, University of Pennsylvania Medical School
• Fulbright Scholar, India (2003–2004)
• Fellow, Salzburg Global Seminar

Mr. Davar’s research and professional interests lie at the intersection of law, ethics, and healthcare innovation. He focuses on regulatory compliance, off-label marketing, clinical trial integrity, and the ethical use of data in healthcare. His work extends to international policy, having advised an African Ministry of Health on human subject protections and national clinical research frameworks. He has also contributed to improving pediatric palliative care through pro bono legal advocacy.

His recent speaking and writing explore emerging issues such as FDA regulation of social media, bribery risks in global clinical trials, and enforcement trends under the False Claims Act. These reflect a broader concern with transparency, accountability, and ethical innovation in medical product development.

Scientific and Academic Honors:

• Phi Beta Kappa
• Fulbright Scholar (2003–2004)
• Fellow, Salzburg Global Seminar

Mahnu Davar has served as a 3L Legal Writing Instructor at Penn Law and has been seconded as an in-house counsel to major life sciences companies, advising on promotional practices, vendor contracts, regulatory submissions, and compliance remediation. While no formal grants are mentioned, his pro bono engagements represent significant contributions to public health policy and advocacy. He has also participated in high-impact initiatives such as the Wharton Business Plan Competition (semi-finalist, 2006).

Though not leading a formal research lab, Mr. Davar has collaborated with academic medical centers on investigations into scientific fraud and clinical misconduct, demonstrating applied engagement with research integrity and institutional oversight.