Patent Agent

Job Overview: A law firm in Washington, DC, is seeking a skilled Patent Agent with 2-5 years of experience in patent prosecution. The ideal candidate will have strong academic credentials, exceptional writing abilities, and a keen analytical mindset, with a preference for candidates holding a Ph.D. in organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, or related fields.

Duties:

• Conduct patent prosecution, including drafting and prosecuting patent applications before the USPTO.
• Provide technical expertise in evaluating patentability and freedom-to-operate opinions.
• Analyze and interpret scientific literature, patent documents, and client inventions.
• Collaborate with attorneys and inventors to prepare patent applications and responses to office actions.
• Conducted patent searches and assisted in intellectual property due diligence projects.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field; Ph.D. preferred in organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, or similar specialties.
• 2-5 years of experience in patent prosecution, preferably at the USPTO or in a law firm setting.
• Strong understanding of chemical structures and properties.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities effectively.

Certifications and Skills:

• PTO registration is strongly preferred.
• Technical specialists with relevant experience and eligibility to sit for the Patent Bar will be considered.
• Proficiency in conducting patent searches using LexisNexis, Thomson Innovation, or equivalent databases.
• Familiarity with patent docketing systems and electronic filing procedures.

Education:

• A bachelor's degree in chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field is required.
• Ph.D. in organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, or similar specialties preferred.

With a longtime DC presence, this strong and reputable firm takes an active role in community and pro bono activities. Recognizing the importance of longevity, this firm goes far to preserve its relationship with its associates. What does that mean for the firm employing hundreds of lawyers in a wide variety of practice areas? It means that associates are well trained and a family atmosphere is fostered. The firm is consistently ranked as one of the top 100 firms and generally considered a great place to work.