Patent Agent

A law firm is seeking a highly qualified Patent Agent to join their Austin, TX office. The ideal candidate will possess a strong technical background in biological or pharmaceutical sciences and extensive experience in patent prosecution. This role involves conducting prior art searches, analyzing patents, and providing support for patent preparation and prosecution. The candidate should also demonstrate excellent communication skills and a strong academic background.

Duties:

• Conduct comprehensive prior art searches to evaluate patentability and assess freedom to operate.
• Analyze patents and scientific literature to assist with patent preparation, prosecution, and legal counseling.
• Prepare, file, and manage patent applications with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
• Collaborate with attorneys to develop and implement patent strategies and address complex technical and legal issues.
• Provide technical expertise in biological or pharmaceutical sciences for patent-related matters.
• Review and interpret patent claims, technical documents, and scientific papers.
• Stay informed on developments in patent law and advancements in relevant scientific fields.

Requirements:

• Registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
• Ph.D. or M.S. in cellular biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, immunology, virology, or a related technical field; or chemistry, organic chemistry, pharmacy, or an equivalent discipline.
• Preferred technical background in biological or pharmaceutical sciences.
• 5+ years of experience in patent prosecution.
• Broad technical knowledge with proven experience in conducting prior art searches and patent analysis.
• Excellent academic record.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Education:

• Ph.D. or M.S. in a relevant technical field such as cellular biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, immunology, virology, chemistry, organic chemistry, pharmacy, or equivalent.

Certifications:

• Registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

Skills:

• Advanced analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex scientific and technical information.
• Proficiency in patent preparation, prosecution, and legal counseling.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a legal team.
• Detail-oriented with excellent organizational and time management skills.

This firm has a very solid reputation in the State of Texas and has a growing reputation around the country. The firm seems to consistently score very well on associate quality of life surveys, and many associates throughout Texas consider working at this firm to be an ultimate of sorts. We have a high degree of enthusiasm for this firm. Getting a position in this firm is no easy task, and the firm does fairly consistently look for top grades and credentials. Additionally, we believe that there is a high degree of diversity within this firm and that the firm makes a solid effort to foster diversity within the workplace. The old adage, No one ever got fired for choosing IBM could be reworded for this firm to state that No one ever made a serious career mistake going here. That is true. If you like challenging work and you want to be part of a powerful Texas firm with a lot of significant heritage in the State of Texas, this may be the place for you. Compensation at this firm is as high as any top Texas firm, and the partners are consistently some of the most highly compensated lawyers in the state.