Life Sciences Patent Associate Attorney

A law firm seeks an experienced Life Sciences Patent Associate to join its Washington, DC office. This role offers an exciting opportunity for an attorney with a background in chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field to engage in patent prosecution, portfolio management, and litigation support. The firm is looking for a candidate with expertise in pharmaceuticals, biosimilars, natural products, or agricultural biotechnology. The position offers a unique blend of responsibilities, including patent counseling, patent opinions, and involvement in high-profile Hatch-Waxman litigation.

Duties

• Manage and prosecute patents in the life sciences sector, focusing on pharmaceuticals, biosimilars, and ag-bio.
• Provide strategic counseling on patent portfolio development, management, and IP-related issues.
• Conduct patent opinion work, including freedom-to-operate and validity assessments.
• Support litigation teams, particularly in Hatch-Waxman cases, assisting with trial preparation and strategy.
• Collaborate with clients to advise on IP strategies and to ensure compliance with applicable patent laws.
• Contribute to the development and execution of complex patent filings, especially within the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries.

Requirements

• A minimum of 3 years of experience in patent prosecution or related patent law, preferably within the life sciences field.
• Advanced degree (Master’s or PhD) in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
• Strong background in handling patent matters related to pharmaceuticals, biosimilars, or agricultural biotechnology.
• Ability to engage in complex legal research and provide clear, concise, and actionable advice.
• Excellent written, oral, and analytical communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate within a team environment and manage client relationships effectively.
• Registration with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is required.

Education

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
• Advanced scientific degree (Master’s or PhD) in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a comparable discipline.

Certifications

• USPTO Registration is mandatory.

Skills

• Strong proficiency in patent prosecution, portfolio management, and counseling within the life sciences sector.
• In-depth knowledge of pharmaceutical patent law, including Hatch-Waxman matters.
• Excellent research, writing, and analytical skills, with the ability to synthesize complex scientific and legal concepts.
• Ability to work collaboratively with clients and other attorneys in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient in the preparation of patent applications, including responding to office actions and drafting claims.
• Knowledge of life sciences-related litigation, including experience supporting pharmaceutical patent litigation.

Benefits

• Competitive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth within a well-respected and established practice.

This is an outstanding opportunity for a talented patent associate to contribute to a prestigious practice while handling cutting-edge matters in the life sciences field.

Providing sophisticated top-quality legal representation nationally and globally, this full-service law firm offers services in areas of corporate, financial services, litigation, real estate, commercial finance, intellectual property, and trusts and estates. The firm's clients include public and private companies, Fortune 100, government and nonprofit organizations, and individuals. The firm has a collaborative and collegial environment where the most talented team of lawyers and professionals create creative and strategic solutions for clients' needs. In addition, the firm has an innovative team that provides strategies using new processes and software. The firm is committed to providing pro bono service and sponsoring a variety of programs that support education, arts and culture, health and welfare, and human rights. Focused on attracting diverse talents the firm provides various training and mentoring programs for professional growth. This nationally recognized firm has all the features of a successful law firm: highly skilled attorneys, amazing staff, a supportive work environment, and a competitive salary with great benefits.