Associate Attorney Chemistry/Pharmaceutical Patent Law

A law firm seeks an experienced Associate Attorney with a Ph.D. in Chemistry to join its growing team in Irvine, CA. This position focuses on patent prosecution and counseling in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries. The ideal candidate will have 2-4 years of experience in patent law and a strong academic background, along with excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with clients and team members. This is a fantastic opportunity to engage in complex legal work within a dynamic industry.

Key Duties

• Handle patent prosecution matters, including drafting and filing patent applications for chemical and pharmaceutical inventions.
• Provide strategic patent counseling to clients in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, offering advice on patentability, infringement, and licensing.
• Conduct legal research and analysis related to chemical and pharmaceutical patent issues.
• Review and analyze scientific documents, ensuring they meet legal and technical requirements for patent filings.
• Collaborate with clients, colleagues, and experts to develop and execute patent strategies.
• Communicate effectively with clients regarding patent portfolios and related legal matters.
• Monitor industry trends and keep up-to-date with developments in patent law and the chemistry and pharmaceutical sectors.

Position Requirements

• 2-4 years of experience in patent prosecution and counseling, with a focus on the chemical and/or pharmaceutical industries.
• Strong academic credentials and proven success in handling complex patent matters.
• Ph.D. in Chemistry or a closely related field (required).
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently or as part of a team.

Education

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an accredited law school.
• Ph.D. in Chemistry or a related discipline (required).

Certifications

• Admission to practice law in the state of California (or eligible for admission).

Skills and Attributes

• Superior legal research, writing, and analytical skills.
• Ability to synthesize complex scientific information and apply it to legal matters.
• Strong interpersonal and client communication skills.
• Excellent time management and organizational abilities.
• Ability to thrive in a team-oriented, collaborative environment.

A boutique law firm known as a leader in intellectual property law, this firm values a work/life balance and offers market pay. Any attorneys interested in patent prosecution should thrive here and, prospects for exit opportunities in the field are excellent.