Intellectual Property Patent Agent

A law firm in Boston is seeking an Intellectual Property Patent Agent specializing in Biological Sciences. The ideal candidate will possess a strong technical background in biological sciences with an advanced degree (Ph.D. preferred; a Master’s degree with substantial industry experience will be considered). The candidate should have a track record of drafting and prosecuting patent applications, conducting IP due diligence, and performing freedom-to-operate (FTO) analyses. While registration with the USPTO and prior firm experience are preferred, they are not mandatory. Candidates must demonstrate an excellent academic record, superior organizational and communication skills, a commitment to exceptional client service, and a creative and entrepreneurial approach to intellectual property.

Duties:

• Draft and prosecute patent applications related to biological sciences and biotechnologies.
• Conduct IP due diligence and freedom-to-operate (FTO) analyses to assess potential IP risks.
• Prepare and file responses to USPTO office actions and manage the patent application process.
• Assist in patent portfolio management and develop strategic IP advice for clients.
• Collaborate with clients and inventors to gather technical details and refine patent strategies.
• Support patent litigation and post-grant proceedings, as needed.
• Stay updated on advancements in biological sciences and patent law.
• Provide innovative solutions to complex IP challenges and contribute to client satisfaction.

Requirements:

• Strong technical background in biological sciences.
• Advanced degree in biological sciences (Ph.D. preferred; Master’s degree with substantial industry experience considered).
• Proven experience in drafting and prosecuting patent applications.
• Experience in conducting IP due diligence and FTO analyses.
• Some experience in litigation and/or post-grant proceedings is useful.
• Registration with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) preferred.
• Prior experience in a law firm environment is advantageous.

Education:

• Advanced degree in biological sciences (Ph.D. preferred; Master’s degree with substantial industry experience considered).

Certifications:

• Registration with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) preferred.

Skills:

• Strong technical expertise in biological sciences.
• Excellent academic record with demonstrated technical and legal proficiency.
• Superior organizational and communication skills (both written and oral).
• Proven commitment to delivering exceptional client service.
• Creative and entrepreneurial approach to intellectual property.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines efficiently.
• Effective problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Capacity to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team environment.

This large Boston firm has a surprisingly good government and regulatory practice, with the added bonus that their attorneys do not have to split their work with Washington DC lawyers in the same practice. This is a firm made up of well-rounded but most certainly well-pedigreed attorneys who come off unusually polished and professional. Associates here are generally quite satisfied, if not a little put off by what at times can be a bit of a competitive environment, both inside and outside the office. The strengths are that associates generally know whether they are 'on track' to make partner, and work in an environment that is designed with the appropriate mentoring and support staff to help associate development and training along.