Life Sciences Patent Associate Attorney

A law firm seeks an experienced Life Sciences Patent Associate to join its Charlotte, NC office. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field, with a focus on patent prosecution, portfolio management, and providing strategic counsel in the life sciences sector. This role involves working on high-profile matters in pharmaceuticals, biosimilars, natural products, and agricultural biotechnology. The firm offers an exceptional opportunity to work on leading-edge Hatch-Waxman litigation and other complex patent-related issues.

Duties

• Manage patent prosecution for clients in the life sciences industry, including pharmaceuticals, biosimilars, and ag-bio.
• Provide counsel on patent portfolio management and strategic IP planning for clients.
• Draft and analyze patent opinions, including freedom-to-operate and patentability assessments.
• Assist in litigation support, including trial preparation and Hatch-Waxman matters.
• Collaborate with internal teams and clients to develop and implement patent strategies.
• Handle a wide range of patent-related activities, from patent filings to responding to office actions.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry trends and patent law developments to provide informed advice.

Requirements

• A minimum of 3 years of experience in patent law, with a focus on life sciences.
• Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a closely related scientific field.
• Strong experience in patent prosecution, portfolio management, and counseling in life sciences.
• Ability to work on high-profile and complex cases, particularly in pharmaceutical and biosimilar sectors.
• Excellent research, writing, and analytical skills, with a high level of attention to detail.
• Experience in providing litigation support, especially in Hatch-Waxman litigation, is a plus.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively with clients and team members.
• Registration with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is required.

Education

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
• Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline.

Certifications

• USPTO Registration required.

Skills

• Expertise in patent prosecution and portfolio management in the life sciences field.
• Strong understanding of pharmaceutical patent law, particularly in Hatch-Waxman cases.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate complex legal and scientific concepts clearly.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to assess and provide advice on complex legal issues.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Strong client management skills and experience working with high-profile clients.

Benefits

• Competitive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression within a supportive work environment.

This is an excellent opportunity for a driven patent attorney with a passion for life sciences to grow their practice in a dynamic and prestigious law firm.

Providing sophisticated top-quality legal representation nationally and globally, this full-service law firm offers services in areas of corporate, financial services, litigation, real estate, commercial finance, intellectual property, and trusts and estates. The firm's clients include public and private companies, Fortune 100, government and nonprofit organizations, and individuals. The firm has a collaborative and collegial environment where the most talented team of lawyers and professionals create creative and strategic solutions for clients' needs. In addition, the firm has an innovative team that provides strategies using new processes and software. The firm is committed to providing pro bono service and sponsoring a variety of programs that support education, arts and culture, health and welfare, and human rights. Focused on attracting diverse talents the firm provides various training and mentoring programs for professional growth. This nationally recognized firm has all the features of a successful law firm: highly skilled attorneys, amazing staff, a supportive work environment, and a competitive salary with great benefits.