Patent Agent

Job Overview: A law firm in Reston, VA, is seeking a skilled Patent Agent to join its team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in molecular biology, possess USPTO registration, and have at least 2+ years of experience preparing and prosecuting patent applications. This role requires excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively within a dynamic legal environment.

Job Details:

• Effectively communicate, verbally and in writing, with clients, lawyers, business professionals, and third parties.
• Produce high-quality patent application drafts, amendments, and responses to office actions.
• Conduct prior art searches and analyze technical and patent information.
• Collaborate with attorneys to develop patent prosecution strategies.
• Manage a varied workload and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of patent prosecution matters.

Duties:

• Produce deliverables, answer phone calls, and promptly reply to correspondence.
• Provide timely, accurate, and quality work product.
• Successfully meet deadlines and expectations and perform work duties as required.
• Foster positive work relationships.
• Comply with all firm policies and practices.
• Engage in physical and sedentary activities, such as working at a computer for extended periods, participating in virtual conference calls, and attending meetings as needed.
• Perform all other duties, tasks, or projects as assigned.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in molecular biology or related field; advanced degree (PhD) preferred.
• Registration with the USPTO.
• Minimum 2+ years of experience preparing and prosecuting patent applications.
• Prior experience in a large or mid-sized law firm preferred.
• Familiarity with litigation, opinions, licensing, patent due diligence, and trademark matters preferred.
• Strong analytical and writing skills with attention to detail.
• Good business judgment and excellent organizational skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently.
• Demonstrated oral and written communication skills.
• Research, problem-solving, and conceptual thinking abilities.
• Ability to influence others and persuasive communication skills.
• Management skills desirable but not required.

Education & Certifications:

• 4-year Bachelor's Degree required.
• Undergraduate or graduate degree in molecular biology preferred.
• PhD in molecular and cellular biology or similar disciplines (excluding chemistry, medical device, or pharmaceutical sciences) preferred.
• Registration with the USPTO is required.

Skills:

• Strong analytical and writing skills.
• Attention to detail.
• Good business judgment.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently.
• Demonstrated oral and written communication skills.
• Research and problem-solving skills.
• Conceptual thinking.
• Ability to influence others.
• Persuasive communication.
• Management skills (preferred).

Job Location:

• Reston, VA

Benefits:

• The firm offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical/dental/vision insurance and 401(k).

This Amlaw firm is best known for allowing its associates to find a balanced work load that best suites them. As a result, the company operates with an entrepreneurial culture, offers flexible face-time, and values diversity and a work space inclusive of everyone. This firm is also one that values pro-bono work?encouraging their associates to gain real-life experience and take charge of their own opportunities and success.