Patent Agent

Job Overview: A law firm in Chicago, IL, is seeking a Patent Agent with substantial experience in patent prosecution, particularly within the pharmaceutical and life sciences sectors. The ideal candidate will possess an advanced degree in Biology, with a preference for a Ph.D., and must be a registered patent agent with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

Duties:

• Draft patent applications for clients, primarily in the pharmaceutical and life sciences industries.
• Manage domestic and international patent dockets, ensuring timely filings and responses.
• Prepare responses to Office Actions from patent offices.
• Correspond with foreign associates regarding international patent matters.
• Formulate effective search strategies for patentability and freedom to operate investigations.
• Analyze patents as part of due diligence or freedom to operate analyses.
• Perform any additional duties as necessary for the efficient functioning of the Department, Office, and Firm.

Requirements:

• Advanced degree in Biology, PhD preferred.
• Registered patent agent with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
• Prior experience working in a law firm environment.
• Previous experience as a scientist, particularly in pharmaceutical or life sciences, is strongly preferred.

Skills:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Proficiency in drafting patent applications and responses to Office Actions.
• Ability to analyze complex technical documents and patent claims effectively.
• Familiarity with patent prosecution procedures and international patent laws and regulations.

The Midwest law practice concentrates on securities class actions, SEC investigations, corporate governance, and related disputes. There are five well-established attorneys on staff. They represent public companies as well as their directors and officers. There are five primary areas of practice. Disciplines include white collar-securities litigation, corporate governance, internal investigations, complex commercial litigation, and eDiscovery-data management.