Intellectual Property Associate (Chemistry)

Job Overview

A respected law firm is seeking a talented Intellectual Property Associate with a specialization in Chemistry to join its IP practice group. This role is designed for a candidate with 1–4 years of patent prosecution experience, ideally in the pharmaceutical space. The position offers the chance to work on sophisticated intellectual property matters, collaborating closely with experienced attorneys and clients in a fast-paced, innovative legal environment.

Location

• New York, NY

Duties

• Draft and prosecute U.S. patent applications in the fields of chemistry and pharmaceuticals

• Handle responses to Office Actions and other communications from the USPTO

• Provide strategic counsel to clients regarding IP portfolios

• Assist with freedom-to-operate analyses and clearance studies

• Support IP litigation teams with technical insight when required

• Conduct patentability, invalidity, and non-infringement analyses

• Participate in due diligence for IP transactions and licensing

Requirements

• 1–4 years of patent prosecution experience, preferably with a focus on pharmaceuticals or chemical technologies

• Familiarity with USPTO practice and procedures

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively on complex legal matters

• Strong communication and analytical skills

• Eligibility to work in the U.S.

Education

• M.S. or Ph.D. in one of the following disciplines:

  • Chemistry

  • Organic Chemistry

  • Medicinal Chemistry

  • Biochemistry

  • Chemical Engineering

Certifications

• Admission to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), or qualification to sit for the patent bar

Skills

• Expertise in patent drafting and prosecution strategy

• Knowledge of IP diligence, clearance studies, and opinion work

• Technical writing and scientific interpretation skills

• Ability to translate complex technical information for legal applications

• Experience supporting litigation is a plus

This Texas-headquartered elite firm is appealing for associates interested in energy work. The firm is serious about its career development. Junior associates are assigned a senior associate mentor and formal training at the firm is guaranteed. Associates confirmed the firm has an encouragement aspect and all workers strive to the best job they can do. This firm has gained important recognition in the community for its diversity efforts. Pro bono is popular among the attorneys and most have devoted over 100 years each year to pro bono efforts. Thefirm pays top-of-market compensation.