Junior IP, Life Sciences, Associate Attorney

Junior IP, Life Sciences, Associate Attorney

Job Overview
A law firm is seeking a Junior Intellectual Property (IP) Associate Attorney to join its Life Sciences group in Washington, DC. The candidate will focus on patent preparation and prosecution, particularly within the life sciences industry. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in chemistry, molecular biology, biochemistry, immunology, chemical engineering, or a related field, as well as a law degree and experience in intellectual property law. This is an excellent opportunity for a candidate with a scientific background to transition into a dynamic legal career.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist in the preparation and prosecution of life sciences patents, focusing on biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and chemical inventions.
• Conduct thorough patentability, freedom-to-operate, and validity analyses.
• Draft patent applications, office action responses, and legal opinions.
• Conduct IP due diligence in support of corporate transactions such as mergers and acquisitions.
• Assist clients in developing and managing their intellectual property portfolios.
• Stay current on changes in patent laws and guidelines, particularly in life sciences and related fields.
• Collaborate with clients, in-house counsel, and experts to develop effective IP strategies and approaches.
• Participate in client meetings and presentations to discuss patent strategies, filings, and prosecution results.

Requirements:

• Minimum 2 years of experience in life sciences patent preparation and prosecution.
• Law degree (J.D.) from an ABA-accredited law school.
• Licensed to practice law in at least one U.S. jurisdiction, with eligibility to waive into the District of Columbia Bar or already a member of the D.C. Bar.
• Experience in patent prosecution before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

Education:

• An advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D. preferred) in chemistry, molecular biology, biochemistry, immunology, chemical engineering, or a related field.
• Strong academic record from undergraduate and graduate institutions.

Certifications:

• Bar membership in at least one U.S. jurisdiction.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Exceptional legal writing and drafting skills.
• Strong analytical and research abilities.
• Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with clients and colleagues.
• Detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team setting.
• A passion for the life sciences sector and intellectual property law.

This AmLaw 100 firm is consistently praised by its associates for offering high caliber, interesting work while still allowing for flexibility in work schedule and respect for its associates. The firm has been consistently on the cutting edge of legal developments, and is a leader in the data privacy and cyber security space. Its associates get top-of-the-market pay and complex work. The atmosphere is friendly and the firm values the career development of its associates, offering great training opportunities and mentorship.