Patent Agent Life Sciences

Job Overview:
A leading law firm is seeking a Patent Agent with a strong scientific background and a passion for intellectual property law to join its Patents and Innovations (Counseling and Prosecution) Practice. This position is ideal for a self-driven, collaborative, and analytically minded professional with advanced training in the life sciences. The Patent Agent will support clients in securing and managing complex patent portfolios across biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and digital health sectors, working closely with attorneys and scientists on cutting-edge innovations.

Location:

• Los Angeles, CA

Duties:

• Prepare and prosecute patent applications in life sciences-related technologies

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

• Assist attorneys and clients in developing strategic patent portfolios

• Draft responses to U.S. and international patent office actions

• Support IP counseling and innovation strategies across a range of technical domains

• Stay current on developments in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and related IP law

Requirements:

• Demonstrated expertise in patent prosecution in life sciences fields

• Experience at a law firm, in-house legal department, or technology transfer office preferred

• Entrepreneurial mindset and ability to work independently and collaboratively

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Education:

• Advanced degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) in a relevant scientific field, including but not limited to:

  • Cell or Molecular Biology

  • Immunology

  • Biochemistry

  • Bioengineering

  • Bioinformatics

  • Organic or Medicinal Chemistry

  • Cancer Biology

  • Pharmacology

  • Biophysics

  • Digital Health or related disciplines

Certifications:

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

Skills:

• Strong scientific analysis and patent drafting skills

• Familiarity with patent portfolio management and strategy

• Ability to interpret complex technical data and translate it into legal protections

• Detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple projects

• Intellectual curiosity and enthusiasm for innovation and legal strategy

Benefits:

• Discretionary merit bonuses

• Monthly wellness reimbursements

• 24/7 emotional and behavioral health support, including virtual counseling

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage for employees, spouses/domestic partners, and children

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

• Paid parental leave and parenting concierge support

• Access to in-home and center-based back-up childcare

• Educational support for children, including tutoring and college coaching

• Health Savings Accounts with employer contributions

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

• 401(k) retirement plan

• Pretax commuter and parking benefits

• Basic and supplemental life insurance

• Short- and long-term disability coverage

• Optional benefits: long-term care, critical illness, hospitalization, accident insurance, ID theft protection, and pet insurance

• Medicare consulting services

• Firm-paid CLE, bar review fees, and bar 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.