Patent Prosecution Attorney

Job Overview:
A highly regarded law firm with a growing national intellectual property practice is seeking a Patent Attorney with a PhD in a life sciences discipline to join its Charlotte office. This opportunity is ideal for a technically advanced legal professional with strong patent prosecution experience who enjoys working on cutting-edge innovations in life sciences and collaborating with inventors and legal colleagues. The role involves high-level patent drafting, prosecution, opinion work, and mentoring responsibilities.

Location:

• Charlotte, North Carolina

Duties:

• Draft and prosecute U.S. and international patent applications in the life sciences sector

• Conduct prior art searches, freedom-to-operate, and patentability analyses

• Prepare patentability, validity, and infringement opinions

• Translate complex scientific concepts into clear legal documentation and responses

• Provide IP due diligence support for M&A and licensing transactions

• Collaborate with inventors and in-house counsel on patent strategy

• Mentor junior associates and contribute to team development

Requirements:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in patent preparation and prosecution

• Strong background in life sciences, particularly in fields such as:

  • Chemistry

  • Biochemistry

  • Polymer Chemistry

  • Biosensors

  • Medicine

  • Medical Devices

  • Metallurgy

• Expertise in one or more of the following technologies:

  • Enzymes

  • Electrochemical or amperometric analyte sensing

  • RNA/DNA/Aptamer signal transducers

  • Membranes and redox mediators

  • Polymer chemistry

  • Inorganic or steel chemistry

• Excellent technical, analytical, and legal writing skills

Education:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school

• PhD in a relevant life sciences discipline is required

Certifications:

• Registered and in good standing with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)

• Admitted to and in good standing with at least one U.S. state bar

Skills:

• Strong scientific and legal acumen in patent law

• Proficient in translating scientific disclosures into patent applications

• Detail-oriented with exceptional communication and drafting skills

• Capable of working both independently and collaboratively

• Interest in mentoring and professional development of team members

Benefits:

• Competitive compensation package

• Multiple health insurance plan options, including HSA availability

• Dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage

• Telehealth services

• Cash Balance Pension Plan (for members) and Flexible Spending Accounts

• Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, and Disability insurance

• Paid parental leave, holidays, vacation, and bereavement leave

• Body Wellness Program and Employee Assistance Program

• Financial Wellness Program

• Reimbursement of reasonable relocation expenses

• Coverage for bar exam and review costs

Join one of the fastest growing law firms in the Southeast. Their practice includes corporate, litigation, bankruptcy, intellectual property, and many others. They are now looking to hire more outstanding attorneys with top academic credentials and meaningful work experience.