IP Life Sciences Patent Prosecution Associate Attorney

A law firm is seeking a highly qualified IP Life Sciences Patent Prosecution Associate Attorney to join their San Francisco, CA office. The ideal candidate will possess a PhD (or MD with research experience) in a relevant field such as organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, cell biology, immunology, molecular biology, microbiology, oncology, gene editing, gene therapy, or a related discipline. Strong academic credentials, along with excellent oral, written, and interpersonal skills, are essential. The candidate must be admitted to the Bar in the jurisdiction where the work is performed and should be a member of (or eligible to be a member of) the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office Bar.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and prosecute patent applications in the life sciences field.
• Conduct thorough legal research and analysis to support patent prosecution and client needs.
• Advise clients on intellectual property strategies, including patentability, freedom-to-operate, and IP portfolio management.
• Collaborate with clients to develop and implement strategies to protect their intellectual property.
• Draft and review legal documents related to patent prosecution and IP management.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and industry trends in the life sciences and IP fields.
• Participate in business development activities and contribute to the growth of the firm’s IP practice.

Requirements

• PhD (or MD with research experience) in organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, cell biology, immunology, molecular biology, microbiology, oncology, gene editing, gene therapy, or a related field.
• Admission to the Bar in the jurisdiction where the work is being performed (California).
• Membership (or eligibility for membership) in the Bar of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
• Minimum of 1 year of legal practice experience, preferably at a law firm.
• Strong academic credentials.

Skills

• Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Detail-oriented with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Proven ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• High level of professionalism and ethical standards.
• Strong client service orientation with a proactive approach to addressing client needs.
• Proficiency in legal research tools and software.

Education and Certifications

• PhD or MD (with research experience) in a relevant field.
• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school (preferred but not required).
• Admission to the Bar in California.
• Membership (or eligibility for membership) in the Bar of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

Benefits

• Healthcare
• Life Insurance
• Health Savings Accounts
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Wellbeing Programs

The San Francisco office of this highly profitable, full-service firm has grown significantly in recent years and has worked on some of the most interesting and complex technology transactions in the world. Although the firm practices in loosely-organized Corporate, Litigation, Intellectual Property, and Tax groups, the San Francisco office focuses primarily on Corporate and Intellectual Property work. Salaries are in line with other top Bay Area firms, and most associates believe the firm is truly a great place to work.