Patent Prosecution (Organic Chemistry) Associate

Job Overview

A leading intellectual property law firm is seeking a Patent Prosecution Associate Attorney with a strong technical background in organic or medicinal chemistry to join its Boston office. This role focuses on the preparation and prosecution of patent applications related to small molecule pharmaceuticals, and offers the opportunity to support a wide range of IP matters including post-grant proceedings, litigation support, and due diligence. Ideal candidates will have 2+ years of experience and an advanced degree in chemistry, along with registration to practice before the USPTO.

Location

• Boston, MA

Duties

• Draft and prosecute U.S. and international patent applications related to small molecule pharmaceuticals

• Conduct patentability, freedom-to-operate, non-infringement, and validity analyses

• Support intellectual property due diligence for transactions involving chemical and pharmaceutical technologies

• Assist with post-grant proceedings including inter partes review (IPR), post-grant review (PGR), and interferences

• Provide legal and technical support for patent litigation matters

• Interact with clients to provide strategic IP counseling

Requirements

• Minimum of 2 years of substantive patent prosecution experience

• Strong background in small molecule pharmaceutical technologies

• Experience with post-grant proceedings, IP due diligence, and litigation support preferred

• Excellent legal writing and oral communication skills

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines

Education

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school

• Advanced degree (Ph.D. preferred or M.S. with relevant industry experience) in organic or medicinal chemistry

Certifications

• Registration to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)

• Admission to at least one U.S. State Bar (Massachusetts preferred)

Skills

• Strong legal research and writing ability

• Technical fluency in organic and medicinal chemistry

• Detail-oriented with strong analytical and organizational skills

• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team

• High degree of professionalism and client service

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience

• Opportunities for direct client interaction and significant responsibility

• Collaborative work environment focused on mentorship and professional development

• Comprehensive benefits package available upon request

Associates say that this Vault 20 law firm offers consistently substantive work across all levels of seniority and a collegial atmosphere. The prestigious firm, which has offices located across the country, provides valuable training and abundant mentorship opportunities to its associates, as well as a partner-track atmosphere that strives for high associate retention. Associates also praise the firm for its generous pro-bono and face-time policies.