Patent Agent

Job Overview: A law firm in Chicago, IL, is seeking a Patent Agent with 2-5 years of experience in patent prosecution, preferably at the USPTO or in a law firm setting. The ideal candidate will possess excellent academic credentials, strong writing skills, and a sharp analytical ability. Industry experience, particularly in organic or medicinal chemistry fields, is advantageous.

Duties:

• Conduct patent prosecution activities, including drafting and prosecuting patent applications.
• Perform patentability and freedom-to-operate searches and analyses.
• Collaborate with inventors and attorneys to prepare technical documents and responses to office actions.
• Assist in intellectual property due diligence and patent portfolio management.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, or related fields; a Ph.D. in these disciplines is highly preferred. Candidates with an M.S. and significant experience will also be considered.
• 2-5 years of experience in patent prosecution, preferably in chemical or pharmaceutical industries.
• Strong understanding of chemical structures and properties.
• Ability to analyze and interpret scientific literature and technical documents.
• PTO registration is strongly preferred; candidates with technical expertise and eligibility to sit for the Patent Bar will be considered.

Skills:

• Proficiency in drafting patent applications and responses to office actions.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational abilities.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Proficiency in patent research tools and databases.

Education and Certifications:

• A bachelor’s degree in organic, medicinal, or related fields is required.
• Ph.D. in organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, or similar specialties preferred.
• PTO registration is strongly preferred; eligibility to sit for the Patent Bar is required.