Ying Cao's practice focuses on patent procurement. He has drafted and prosecuted patent applications for inventions related to electric circuits, computer software, semiconductor devices and manufacture, telecommunication technologies, and mechanical systems. He also has performed IP due diligence reviews for many cross-border and domestic merger and acquisition transactions. In addition, Ying has been involved in patent litigation matters.

Prior to his law career, Ying conducted scientific research in electrical engineering and materials science, and he has authored or coauthored many publications that have appeared in scientific journals and academic conference proceedings.