Patent Prosecution Attorney

A law firm located in Tempe, Arizona, is looking to bring on a highly qualified Patent Prosecution Attorney to join its intellectual property practice. The ideal candidate will possess advanced technical knowledge in biochemistry, biotechnology, or closely related fields, along with a passion for working with cutting-edge scientific innovations. This role involves guiding clients—ranging from emerging startups to established companies—through the intricacies of securing patent rights, ensuring compliance with evolving regulations, and contributing to the firm’s broader intellectual property strategies.

Core Responsibilities:

• Draft, review, and revise patent applications relating to biotechnology, biochemistry, and life sciences innovations.
• Conduct comprehensive analyses of prior art, assess patentability, and craft strategies to enhance the strength of clients’ intellectual property portfolios.
• Prepare responses to official office actions from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and related authorities, utilizing creative arguments to overcome objections.
• Collaborate closely with inventors, scientists, and researchers to thoroughly understand complex technologies and translate them into effective legal protections.
• Advise clients on strategies for protecting their innovations, managing risk, and navigating competitive landscapes.
• Maintain regular communication with clients to provide updates, offer strategic guidance, and manage expectations throughout the prosecution process.
• Keep pace with evolving laws, scientific advancements, and global patent trends to offer proactive, forward-thinking counsel.

Required Education & Academic Background:

• Completion of a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in biochemistry, biotechnology, molecular biology, or a closely related field.

Licensing & Certifications:

• Active member of at least one U.S. state bar (Arizona preferred or willingness to gain admission).
• Registration to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is required.

Experience Requirements:

• Minimum of two years and up to approximately eight years of relevant experience, with a focus on patent drafting and prosecution within the biotech or life sciences sectors.
• Experience collaborating directly with scientists, researchers, and corporate clients to tailor patent strategies to specific innovations and business goals.

Essential Skills & Core Competencies:

• Exceptional technical writing skills, with the ability to craft clear, precise, and persuasive patent applications.
• Strong analytical mindset, capable of identifying both legal and technical vulnerabilities while crafting creative solutions to address them.
• Highly organized, with excellent project management abilities to balance multiple cases, deadlines, and client communications.
• Adept at translating complex scientific concepts into language understandable to non-scientists, including legal teams and clients.
• Forward-thinking and adaptable, comfortable navigating changing legal landscapes and emerging technologies.

Preferred Attributes:

• Familiarity with both U.S. and international patent systems, including strategies for securing global patent rights.
• Previous experience advising clients in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or life sciences industries.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently when necessary while also thriving in collaborative, team-driven environments.

Location & Workplace Flexibility:

• Candidates should either reside in or be willing to relocate to the Tempe, Arizona area.
• Flexible work arrangements may be considered based on experience and firm needs, with occasional in-office collaboration expected.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary structure aligned with experience and qualifications.
• Access to a 401(k) retirement savings plan, with firm contributions.
• Participation in health and dental coverage.
• Eligibility for disability insurance benefits.

Located in Tempe, Arizona, this boutique law firm's practice is dedicated exclusively to trademarks, patents, trade secrets, copyrights, and licensing and due diligence. The firm assists clients around the world in intellectual property and corporate matters. Founded in 2005, the firm has years of experience in dealing with intellectual property law matters around the world.