Mid-Senior Level Life Sciences Patent Prosecution Associate Attorney

Job Overview: A law firm in Chicago, IL, seeks a Mid-Senior Level Life Sciences Patent Prosecution Associate Attorney to provide technical expertise in life sciences patent practice. The ideal candidate will work closely with colleagues and in-house counsel on IP-related issues throughout the product lifecycle, conduct freedom to operate and/or IP due diligence searches, prepare and prosecute patent applications, and liaise with clients, the USPTO, and foreign associates regarding patent application processes and strategies.

Duties:

• Provide technical expertise in life sciences patent practice
• Work closely with colleagues and in-house counsel on IP-related issues throughout the product lifecycle
• Conduct freedom to operate and/or IP due diligence search and analysis in support of licensing and acquisitions and/or research and development of large-molecule products
• Prepare and prosecute patent applications and help develop strong patent portfolios for pipeline products and platform technologies
• Liaise with clients, the USPTO, and foreign associates regarding the domestic and foreign patent application processes and strategies

Requirements:

• Ph.D. (or master's or other advanced degree) in biological sciences (e.g., molecular or cell biology, microbiology, immunology, genetics, or biochemistry)
• Superior academic record, strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, and strong attention to detail
• Prior law firm experience with patents in pharmaceutical and life sciences fields
• Current registration and good standing with the USPTO are required
• 3-8 years of patent experience, which may include experience as a patent specialist, patent agent, and patent attorney
• Leadership skills and ability to excel in a team environment
• Keen interest in developing and implementing relationship-building skills both internally and externally
• Prior experiences that prepare the candidate to work with attorneys, staff, and clients from diverse backgrounds
• Highly motivated and a self-starter
• Flexible and able to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Excellent law school credentials and references

Education and Certifications:

• Ph.D. or master's degree in biological sciences
• Current registration and in good standing with the USPTO

Skills:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Leadership skills and ability to excel in a team environment
• Relationship-building skills
• Adaptability and flexibility
• Motivated and self-starter mentality

Benefits offered:

• Competitive salaries
• Quality benefits programs including an annual stipend to support interests and hobbies outside of the workplace
• Workplace flexibility
• One-on-One Career Coaching
• Professional development opportunities and support

This full-service firm in Chicago has a nationally recognized reputation in many of its practice areas. With additional offices throughout the Midwest and the East Coast, the firm has over 200 lawyers ready to serve their clients. New associates are assigned to one of five sections: Bond/Municipal Finance, Business, Labor, Litigation, or Real Estate. New associates are encouraged to let the firm know what areas interest them, but all attorneys are expected to be willing to work in a wide variety of areas. New associates are also provided with early client contact. While some associates arent ecstatic with the firms bonus structure, this mid-tier firm does pay higher than many similar firms in the area.