Patent Agent Life Sciences

Job Overview:
A top-tier law firm is seeking a highly motivated and scientifically adept Patent Agent to join its Patents and Innovations Counseling & Prosecution Practice. This position is ideal for individuals with an advanced degree in life sciences or a related field who are passionate about the intersection of science, innovation, and intellectual property law. The Patent Agent will be responsible for drafting and prosecuting patent applications, conducting IP analyses, and supporting clients in the biotech, pharmaceutical, and health tech industries with their global patent strategies.

Location:

• Washington, D.C.

Duties:

• Draft and prosecute patent applications related to biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and life sciences technologies

• Conduct patentability, freedom-to-operate, and due diligence analyses

• Support attorneys and clients in the strategic development and management of global IP portfolios

• Respond to office actions from the USPTO and foreign patent offices

• Collaborate with inventors, scientists, and attorneys to evaluate inventions and formulate protection strategies

• Track industry and legal developments relevant to the life sciences and digital health sectors

Requirements:

• Demonstrated scientific expertise in one or more life sciences disciplines

• Strong analytical and writing skills

• Ability to manage deadlines and multiple concurrent projects

• Prior patent agent experience in a law firm or corporate environment is preferred

• Excellent interpersonal skills and professional judgment

Education:

• Ph.D. or equivalent advanced degree in a relevant field, including:

  • Cell or Molecular Biology

  • Immunology

  • Biochemistry

  • Bioinformatics

  • Bioengineering

  • Organic Chemistry

  • Medicinal Chemistry

  • Cancer Biology

  • Pharmacology

  • Biophysics

  • Digital Health–related disciplines

Certifications:

• Registration to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), or eligibility to sit for the patent bar

Skills:

• Proficiency in patent application drafting and prosecution

• Ability to analyze and communicate complex technical concepts clearly

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in written work

• Knowledge of U.S. and international IP law and procedure

• Collaborative approach with clients, attorneys, and research teams

Benefits:

• Discretionary merit-based bonuses

• Monthly wellness reimbursements

• 24/7 virtual counseling and behavioral health support

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees, spouses/domestic partners, and children

• Family-building benefits including IVF, adoption, surrogacy, and egg-freezing

• Paid parental leave

• Parenting concierge and telemedicine access

• Resource groups for parents and caregivers

• Career coaching for working parents

• In-home and center-based back-up childcare

• Tutoring and college coaching for children

• Health Savings Accounts (with firm contribution)

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

• 401(k) retirement plan

• Pretax commuter and parking benefits

• Basic and supplemental life insurance

• Short- and long-term disability insurance

• Voluntary benefits including:

  • Long-term care insurance

  • Critical illness, hospitalization, and accident insurance

  • Identity theft protection

  • Pet insurance

• Medicare consulting services

• Firm-paid CLE, patent bar review fees, and professional dues

This Vault Law 100 and one of the Best Law Firm in the Emerging Companies & Venture Capital firm boasts cutting-edge clients, pleasant people, and a flexible work/life balance. The firm is a global player with very deep tech roots and has been ranked among the top 10 M&A advisors in the nation. As the premier provider of legal services to technology, life sciences, and growth enterprises worldwide, the firm is appealing to associates for fostering an entrepreneurial and collaborative environment across its attorney ranks, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, career growth, and building leadership and relationship skills with clients and colleagues. Compensation at this firm is competitive with peer firms in the region.