Intellectual Property Patent Agent

A law firm in Wilmington, DE, is seeking a skilled Intellectual Property Patent Agent with a solid foundation in chemistry, biochemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field. The successful candidate will be collaborative, motivated, and thrive in a client-focused, team-oriented environment. Preference will be given to individuals with excellent academic credentials, strong writing skills, and professional recommendations.

Duties

• Draft and prosecute patent applications for inventions related to chemical engineering, chemical compounds, chemical processes, biochemistry, and related technologies.
• Perform detailed prior art searches and analyses to assess patentability and guide strategic decisions.
• Prepare and file patent applications with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
• Respond to office actions by drafting persuasive arguments and amending patent claims as necessary.
• Collaborate with inventors and clients to gather technical information and refine patent applications.
• Review and manage patent portfolios to provide strategic advice on intellectual property protection and management.
• Stay updated with advancements in relevant scientific fields and changes in patent laws and regulations.
• Manage technical documentation and correspondence with internal and external stakeholders.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field (required).
• Minimum of 2+ years of experience in drafting and prosecuting patent applications related to chemical engineering, chemical compounds, chemical processes, biochemistry, or related technologies (experience in pharmaceutical, biologics, or life sciences applications is a plus).
• Strong academic credentials and professional recommendations.
• Proven ability to work effectively in a collaborative, client-focused environment.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.

Certifications

• Registration with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) as a Patent Agent is preferred but not required.

Skills

• Excellent writing and communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Comprehensive knowledge of patent laws, regulations, and procedures.
• Proficiency in drafting clear and persuasive patent applications and responses.
• Ability to conduct thorough technical analysis related to chemical and biotechnological inventions.
• Collaborative approach with a strong client-focused mindset.

Benefits

• Discretionary bonus
• Life, health, accident, and disability insurance
• 401(k) plan

A Vault 100 firm widely cited for its outstanding mentorship opportunities for new associates and for its prestigious clientele, associates also applaud its impressive pro-bono policies, which consider pro-bono work just as important as billable work in calculating bonuses and advancement. They also cite mobility within the firm and say that lower-level associates often work closely with partners on projects, making growth opportunities abundant to those looking for career development.