Intellectual Property Associate (Chemistry)

Job Overview

A leading law firm is seeking an Intellectual Property Associate with a strong scientific background in Chemistry to join its Intellectual Property practice group. The ideal candidate will have 1–4 years of patent prosecution experience, particularly in the pharmaceutical space. This role provides the opportunity to work on high-level, cutting-edge intellectual property matters within a collaborative and fast-paced legal environment.

Location

• Austin, TX

Duties

• Draft and prosecute patent applications in the chemical and pharmaceutical fields

• Manage patent strategy and support IP portfolio development for clients

• Respond to USPTO communications and Office Actions

• Conduct patentability and freedom-to-operate analyses

• Prepare non-infringement, invalidity, and other IP-related legal opinions

• Assist with due diligence in IP transactions and licensing matters

• Provide technical analysis and litigation support as needed

Requirements

• 1–4 years of patent prosecution experience

• Focus or experience in pharmaceutical technologies is preferred

• Strong understanding of U.S. patent law and prosecution processes

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Must be eligible to work in the United States

Education

• Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in one of the following:

  • Chemistry

  • Organic Chemistry

  • Medicinal Chemistry

  • Biochemistry

  • Chemical Engineering

Certifications

• Licensed to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), or eligible to sit for the patent bar

Skills

• Proficiency in patent drafting, prosecution, and IP strategy

• Strong research, analytical, and scientific writing abilities

• Experience with clearance studies, diligence matters, and opinion work

• Ability to convey complex scientific ideas in legal contexts

• Experience supporting IP litigation is a plus

This Texas-headquartered elite firm is appealing for associates interested in energy work. The firm is serious about its career development. Junior associates are assigned a senior associate mentor and formal training at the firm is guaranteed. Associates confirmed the firm has an encouragement aspect and all workers strive to the best job they can do. This firm has gained important recognition in the community for its diversity efforts. Pro bono is popular among the attorneys and most have devoted over 100 years each year to pro bono efforts. Thefirm pays top-of-market compensation.