Mid-level Intellectual Property Associate - Life Sciences

A law firm seeks a midlevel associate to join its Intellectual Property practice focused on life sciences in the Philadelphia office. The ideal candidate will have 1-5 years of experience in patent prosecution within the biotechnology sector and hold an advanced degree, preferably a Ph.D., in a relevant life sciences field. This role presents an exciting opportunity to work on high-profile patent matters and grow your expertise in a collaborative, intellectually stimulating environment.

Duties:

• Handle patent prosecution matters related to biotechnology and life sciences technologies
• Draft and file patent applications, manage office actions and respond to USPTO communications
• Work closely with clients to identify and protect intellectual property assets
• Conduct patentability, validity, and freedom-to-operate analyses
• Provide strategic guidance on patent portfolio development and management
• Collaborate with senior attorneys and clients on patent litigation strategies as needed
• Stay current on developments in intellectual property law, particularly in life sciences
• Engage in team meetings and contribute to the overall growth and development of the practice

Requirements:

• 1-5 years of experience in patent prosecution within the biotechnology or life sciences field
• Advanced degree (Ph.D. preferred) in a life sciences-related field
• Strong understanding of patent law and patent prosecution processes
• Patent bar membership (USPTO Registration Number) is required
• Must be willing to take and pass the patent bar exam within the first 12 months if not already registered
• Excellent legal research, writing, and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple matters simultaneously
• Detail-oriented with a strong analytical mindset

Education:

• J.D. from an accredited law school
• Advanced degree in a life sciences field (Ph.D. preferred)

Certifications:

• USPTO Patent Bar Registration is required or must be obtained within 12 months of hire

Skills:

• In-depth knowledge of patent law and procedures, particularly within the life sciences sector
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking abilities
• High level of organizational skills and attention to detail

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) plan with firm contributions
• Generous paid time off (PTO), including vacation and sick leave
• Parental leave and other family-friendly benefits
• Professional development opportunities in a growing and dynamic practice area

This is an exceptional opportunity for a motivated midlevel associate with a passion for intellectual property and life sciences to advance their career with a leading practice. If you're looking to work on cutting-edge matters in a collaborative setting, we encourage you to apply.

This is one of the top law firms in the country to work forin its huge Philadelphia office, this firm draws rave reviews. Although much more a large firm atmosphere than most of the East Coast (non-New York) based firms, this firm has one of the most exciting full service practices around. However, it is not easy to get in with this fairly elite group of attorneys--they are very picky about their candidates. The culture here is fairly competitive--although the partners take care of their own, this is a group of high powered professionals who are used to acheiving at very high levels--and used to beating out the guy next door. This internal drive will keep associates staying later and later to earn bragging rights on occasion--but it's not as if the work isn't abundant enough to keep you there.