Patent Attorney - Biotechnology

Job Overview:
A law firm is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Patent Attorney with expertise in biotechnology to join its team. This position will involve preparing and prosecuting U.S. and international patent applications related to biotechnology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, genetics, immunology, microbiology, pharmaceuticals, and small molecule technologies. The ideal candidate will have a strong technical understanding of these fields, excellent communication skills, and the ability to manage a complex patent docket.

Location:

• Minnesota, MN

Duties:

• Prepare and prosecute U.S. and international patent applications for biotechnology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, genetics, immunology, microbiology, pharmaceuticals, and small molecule technologies
• Conduct freedom-to-operate and prior art searches
• Perform patentability, validity, and infringement analyses, and develop associated legal opinions
• Collaborate with inventors, scientists, and other legal team members to translate technical innovations into strong patent applications
• Independently manage a sophisticated patent docket
• Perform client and administrative duties as required

Requirements:

• Strong understanding of intellectual property law with an emphasis on patent preparation and prosecution
• Deep technical knowledge of biotechnology, immunology, microbiology, pharmacology, and related disciplines
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational and prioritization skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines
• Demonstrated attention to detail
• Strong research, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Knowledge of foreign patent prosecution procedures preferred
• Experience in industries such as biotechnology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, cell and tissue culture, genetics, immunology, molecular biology, pharmaceuticals, and related fields

Education:

• J.D. from an accredited law school
• Admitted to practice law in Minnesota (Certificate of Good Standing required)
• Admitted to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
• Bachelor of Science in Biology, Chemistry, or a related field
• Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, Microbiology, Genetics, or similar discipline (Preferred)

Certifications:

• Admission to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (Required)
• Certificate of Good Standing in Minnesota (Required)

Skills:

• Expertise in patent preparation and prosecution
• Strong technical background in biotechnology, immunology, and related scientific disciplines
• Excellent written communication, including drafting and prosecuting patent applications
• Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities
• Ability to work independently and manage a complex docket
• Proficiency in research and freedom-to-operate searches

Benefits:

• Comprehensive benefits package:
• • Medical, dental, vision, life/AD&D, and STD/LTD disability insurance
  • Health reimbursement account and health savings account (with employer contributions)
  • Pet insurance
  • 401(k)/profit-sharing retirement package
  • Minnesota Earned Sick and Safe Time
  • Hybrid working environment with office incentives
  • Professional development and continuing legal education assistance
  • Firm-issued equipment and home office stipend
  • Discretionary bonuses and a free on-site gym

This premier law practice is headquartered in Minnesota and has a global reach. It concentrates on intellectual property law and focuses on the chemical and biotechnological industries. Some of the firm's main areas of expertise are pharmaceuticals, imaging science, metabolic engineering, and medical devices. The legal practice employs a sizable group of seasoned attorneys and a highly qualified professional support team.