Biotechnology Patent Prosecution Associate Attorney

Biotechnology Patent Prosecution Associate Attorney
Job Location: Washington, DC
Experience Level: 2 years

Job Overview:
A law firm in Washington, DC is seeking a Biotechnology Patent Prosecution Associate Attorney with a Ph.D. in biology, molecular biology, cellular biology, biochemistry, or related disciplines. The successful candidate will assist clients in the biotechnology industry with patent prosecution and IP strategy. This role involves working closely with inventors, scientists, and corporate counsel to secure intellectual property rights for breakthrough innovations.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Prepare, file, and prosecute biotechnology patent applications before the USPTO and international patent offices.
• Conduct thorough patentability, freedom-to-operate, and validity analyses.
• Draft legal opinions related to patent validity and infringement.
• Provide strategic advice to clients regarding intellectual property portfolios, including patent prosecution strategies.
• Collaborate with inventors, scientists, and in-house counsel to develop and execute IP strategies.
• Participate in client meetings, offering expert guidance on patent-related matters in the biotechnology field.
• Assist in due diligence for intellectual property matters during mergers, acquisitions, and other corporate transactions.
• Stay updated on legal developments in patent law, particularly those affecting biotechnology innovations.
• Contribute to the growth and development of the firm’s biotechnology patent practice through client development efforts and networking.

Requirements:

• A minimum of 2 years of experience in biotechnology patent prosecution.
• Registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
• Ph.D. in biology, molecular biology, cellular biology, biochemistry, or related disciplines.
• Strong understanding of biotechnology-related patent law, including the preparation and prosecution of patent applications.
• Prior experience drafting and prosecuting U.S. and international patent applications in the life sciences sector.

Education and Certifications:

• Ph.D. in biology, molecular biology, cellular biology, biochemistry, or a related discipline is required.
• A Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school is required.
• Active membership in at least one State Bar is required.
• USPTO registration number (required).

Skills and Competencies:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex scientific concepts in legal terms.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Meticulous attention to detail in both legal and scientific matters.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Client-focused with a proven track record of building and maintaining relationships with clients.

A boutique law firm known as a leader in intellectual property law, this firm values a work/life balance and offers market pay. Any attorneys interested in patent prosecution should thrive here and, prospects for exit opportunities in the field are excellent.