Patent Agent - Life Sciences

Job Overview:
A reputable law firm is seeking a highly skilled Patent Agent to join its distinguished Intellectual Property Practice Group. The successful candidate will be responsible for preparing, filing, and prosecuting patent applications before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), with a focus on life sciences, including molecular biology, cell biology, and biochemistry. The position offers flexibility with a hybrid in-office/remote work schedule and can be based in multiple office locations. This is an excellent opportunity to work closely with senior partners while managing client relationships and providing high-quality legal services to both domestic and international clients.

Location:

• Washington, D.C.

Duties:

• Prepare, file, and prosecute patent applications before the USPTO
• Perform prior art searches and patentability analysis
• Conduct intellectual property (IP) due diligence
• Engage in client relationship building and practice development activities
• Draft substantive client correspondence
• Instruct local counsel for foreign filings and manage Office Actions
• Assist with patent clearance studies and other patent-related opinion projects
• Apply advanced life sciences knowledge, focusing on molecular biology, cell biology, and biochemistry
• Study and analyze scientific documents, including previously published patent documents, to assess patentability, novelty, and inventiveness
• Convert provisional applications into utility applications
• Convert foreign-filed applications into U.S. applications and vice versa

Requirements:

• Minimum one year of experience as a practicing patent agent in life sciences or two years of professional experience in the field
• Registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)
• Strong technical expertise in life sciences, particularly molecular biology, cell biology, or biochemistry
• Excellent writing, research, and communication skills
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines

Education:

• Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in a biological field, such as Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Microbiology, or Biomedical Engineering
• Strong academic credentials

Certifications:

• Registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)

Skills:

• Expertise in patent prosecution and patent law
• Ability to conduct detailed research and analysis
• Advanced technical knowledge of life sciences
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• High attention to detail and organizational ability
• Proven ability to handle multiple tasks and manage client relationships effectively

Benefits:

• Hybrid work schedule with flexibility for remote and in-office work
• Law school tuition reimbursement program for eligible employees pursuing a Juris Doctorate degree
• Equal employment opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion
• Reasonable accommodations available for applicants with disabilities or other needs during the application process

One of DC's most powerful firms is this one. Truly an international giant in every sense of the word, business and finance, M&A, labor law and litigation reign supreme here although the IP practice is coming into its own also. Like many other large firms attrition is high at times, but overall the associates here are well-credentialed and well paid. In DC, this firm's litigation section, especially with respect to technology and intellectual property disputes, tops the list in terms of prestige. However, this is one of the few firms that virtually guarantees great work and top-notch training, regardless of the practice area.