Patent Agent

A law firm in Alexandria is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Patent Agent to join their team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in the preparation and prosecution of chemistry or materials science-related patent applications. This role involves conducting patentability, state-of-the-art, infringement, validity searches and analyses, and preparing patent opinions.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Prepare and prosecute chemistry or materials science-related patent applications.
• Conduct patentability, state-of-the-art, infringement, and validity searches and analyses.
• Prepare detailed patent opinions and provide strategic advice on patent matters.
• Liaise with inventors and clients to understand and evaluate new inventions.
• Draft and file patent applications with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
• Respond to USPTO Office Actions and communicate with patent examiners.
• Collaborate with attorneys, scientists, and clients to develop patent strategies.
• Monitor and manage patent portfolios for clients.
• Conduct due diligence on intellectual property matters for transactions.
• Stay updated with current developments in patent law and technology in relevant fields.

Requirements

• Must be registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
• Significant experience in the preparation and prosecution of patent applications.
• Proficiency in conducting patentability, state-of-the-art, infringement, and validity searches.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Physics, or Materials Science and Engineering.
• Advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) or equivalent experience in Materials Science is strongly preferred.

Certifications

• Registration with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office is mandatory.

Skills

• In-depth understanding of how materials such as metals, polymers, catalytic materials, ceramics, liquid crystals, and composites are used in various applications (e.g., batteries, fuel cells, electronics, biotechnology, nanotechnology).
• Familiarity with modern processing and discovery principles (e.g., casting, additive manufacturing, coating, evaporation, plasma and radiation processing, artificial intelligence, and computer simulations).
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Attention to detail and the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously.
• Proficiency in patent drafting and prosecution software/tools.
• Ability to communicate complex technical information clearly and concisely.

This firm has almost 40 years of experience and specializes in all aspects of intellectual property law. There are five law offices and a fairly large team of very skilled attorneys comprise their legal practice. Patents, trademarks, trade dress and unfair competition are some of their areas or practice.