Biotechnology Prosecution Associate

Job Overview:
A leading intellectual property and technology-focused law firm is seeking a skilled Biotechnology Patent Prosecution Associate to join its practice in Irvine, CA. This role is ideal for a scientifically trained legal professional with a Ph.D. and a passion for intellectual property law, particularly in the biotechnology sector. The selected candidate will work on patent prosecution matters involving complex biotech inventions and support clients ranging from startups to established biotech corporations.

Location:

• Irvine, California

Duties:

• Prepare and prosecute U.S. and international patent applications in the field of biotechnology

• Analyze scientific documents and assess the patentability of inventions

• Work closely with inventors, scientists, and in-house legal departments to draft and file patent applications

• Respond to office actions from the USPTO and other global patent offices

• Conduct patentability, freedom-to-operate, and validity analyses

• Assist in IP strategy development for biotech clients

• Monitor and manage patent portfolios

• Conduct due diligence for licensing, acquisition, and litigation matters

Requirements:

• Minimum 2 years of experience in biotechnology patent prosecution

• Proven understanding of patent law as applied to biotechnology innovations

• Familiarity with international patent systems is a plus

Education:

• Ph.D. in Biology, Molecular Biology, Cellular Biology, Biochemistry, or a closely related field

Certifications:

• Registration to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) preferred or willingness to obtain

• Admission to at least one state bar preferred

Skills:

• Strong scientific and technical writing abilities

• Excellent communication and client-interfacing skills

• Attention to detail and ability to manage complex projects independently

• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-focused environment

• Proficiency in legal research and IP management software

Benefits:

• Bonuses: Eligible for signing bonuses and annual performance-based bonuses

• Other Benefits: May include health insurance, retirement plan contributions, paid time off, and professional development support (benefits may vary and are provided upon offer)

A boutique law firm known as a leader in intellectual property law, this firm values a work/life balance and offers market pay. Any attorneys interested in patent prosecution should thrive here and, prospects for exit opportunities in the field are excellent.