Robert Cook-Deegan works with gene patenting and healthcare policy, exploring questions related to how scientific advancements can progress without sacrificing quality of care.He is a prominent voice in patent law of specific genes in biomedical research. He consults policy makers on the ramifications of disclosing gene risk to patients, cloning and the use of chemical weapons.

Cook-Deegan is a professor for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society.

He worked on the development of the Human Genome Project. He is on two committees within the American Association for the Advancement of Science. He is also a member of the National Conference of Lawyers and Scientists. He has published several books.