Mid-Level Life Sciences Intellectual Property Associate Attorney

Job Title:
Mid-Level Life Sciences Intellectual Property Associate Attorney

Job Overview:
A law firm based in Chicago, IL is seeking a highly skilled mid-level associate attorney to join their Intellectual Property team, specializing in Life Sciences. The ideal candidate will have 1-5 years of patent prosecution experience in the biotechnology field, along with an advanced degree (preferably a Ph.D.) in a relevant life sciences technology area. The candidate should be a member of the patent bar (USPTO Registration Number) or be willing to obtain the patent bar certification within the first 12 months of employment.

Duties:

• Handle patent prosecution for clients in the biotechnology sector.
• Work closely with senior attorneys and clients to draft and file patent applications.
• Manage intellectual property portfolios for life sciences technologies.
• Conduct patent searches and provide opinions on patentability, infringement, and validity.
• Assist with the preparation of responses to office actions, appeals, and other patent-related matters.
• Collaborate with other legal professionals to ensure successful outcomes for clients.

Requirements:

• 1-5 years of experience in patent prosecution, preferably within the biotechnology or life sciences field.
• An advanced degree (Ph.D.) in a life sciences-related discipline is preferred.
• USPTO Patent Bar Registration required (or willingness to obtain within 12 months).
• Strong understanding of patent laws and regulations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively.

Education:

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school.
• Advanced degree (Ph.D.) in a life sciences discipline preferred.

Certifications:

• USPTO Patent Bar Registration (or willingness to obtain within 12 months of hire).

Skills:

• Expertise in patent prosecution within the biotechnology or life sciences industry.
• Strong research and analytical abilities.
• Proficiency in preparing and filing patent applications.
• Ability to work independently and in team settings.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Detail-oriented with a focus on delivering high-quality legal work.

Job Location:
Chicago, IL

This large law firm opened with a labor and leveraged-leasing practice and quickly built a substantial corporate and litigation practice. Today, the firm focuses its practice on business and finance, investment management, litigation, labor and employment, real estate and environmental issues. Attorneys at the firm enjoy a faily casual, though conservative, environment where partners tend to be collegial and offer excellent formal and informal training programs. In addition to recieving fair market salaries, associates at the firm have the opportunity to participate in award winning pro bono work.