Biotechnology Patent Attorney

Job Overview: A law firm in Falls Church, VA, is seeking a Biotechnology Patent Attorney to apply scientific expertise in assisting with the preparation and prosecution of patent applications. The ideal candidate will possess a Doctorate (Ph.D.) degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, or a closely related field, along with at least 2 years of experience as a patent attorney or patent agent. Registration to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office as a Patent Attorney or Patent Agent is mandatory for this role.

Duties:

• Apply scientific principles and specialized knowledge to assist in the technical study, research, and analysis of biotechnological technologies relevant to patent applications.
• Conduct thorough evaluations of patentability, validity, and infringement issues related to biotechnology patents.
• Collaborate with inventors, scientists, and legal teams to gather technical information and develop strategies for patent prosecution.
• Draft patent applications, responses to office actions, and other legal documents with precision and clarity.
• Provide counsel on intellectual property matters, including patent portfolio management and patent litigation support.
• Stay updated on relevant laws, regulations, and industry trends impacting biotechnology patents.

Requirements:

• Doctorate (Ph.D.) degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience working as a patent attorney or patent agent, preferably specializing in biotechnology.
• Registration to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office as a Patent Attorney or Patent Agent.
• Strong understanding of patent laws, regulations, and procedures pertaining to biotechnological inventions.
• Excellent analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal abilities for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, manage deadlines, and work efficiently in a fast-paced legal environment.

Education:

• Doctorate (Ph.D.) degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, or a closely related field.

Certifications:

• Must be registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office as a Patent Attorney or Patent Agent.

Skills:

• Scientific expertise in biotechnology and related disciplines.
• Proficiency in legal research, drafting, and analysis.
• Attention to detail and accuracy in technical and legal documentation.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented setting.

This small/mid-sized Virginia law firm handles all aspects of patent, trademark, copyright and unfair competition causes, including litigation, ex parte practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, inter parte practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and practice before the U.S. Copyright Office. The firm has associates throughout the world to assist its clients in obtaining protection and advice with regard to patents, trademarks and copyrights on a worldwide basis. Attorneys of the firm have degrees in electrical, electronic, chemical, mechanical and civil engineering, and chemistry, as well as biotechnology. Attorneys enjoy a friendly small firm atmosphere, but work very hard and receive market salaries.