Life Sciences Associate

Job Overview

A highly regarded law firm is seeking an Associate Attorney with a strong background in life sciences to join its Intellectual Property group in Boston. The role involves a diverse mix of patent prosecution, opinion work, IP due diligence, and strategic counseling. This position is ideal for professionals with a Ph.D. in a biological science and prior law firm or in-house IP experience. Candidates will collaborate closely with patent agents, technology specialists, and senior attorneys on complex and high-impact intellectual property matters in the biotech and pharmaceutical sectors.

Location

• Boston, MA

Duties

• Draft and prosecute patent applications in the life sciences sector

• Review technical disclosures and participate in client interviews to understand inventions

• Develop arguments and prepare responses to U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) communications

• Analyze patent portfolios as part of IP due diligence for acquisitions or mergers

• Assist in preparing patentability, freedom-to-operate (FTO), and validity opinions

• Supervise patent agents and technology specialists on search and drafting tasks

• Provide strategic IP counseling to biotechnology and pharmaceutical clients

• Contribute to a collaborative legal team handling a range of IP matters

Requirements

• Minimum of 4 years of experience in a law firm or corporate legal department

• Prior work as a technology specialist or patent agent is highly valued

• Experience handling U.S. and international patent prosecution in life sciences

• Background in cancer biology, immunology, or genetics is a strong plus

• Eligible to work in the United States per current export compliance regulations

Education

• Ph.D. in Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Immunology, Genetics, or a closely related field

• J.D. from an accredited law school preferred but not mandatory (depending on role scope)

Certifications

• USPTO registration preferred

• Admission to a state bar (if applicable for role scope)

Skills

• Excellent written and oral communication skills

• Strong analytical and technical skills in life sciences subject matter

• Ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects

• Team-oriented mindset with strong collaboration skills

• Proficient in preparing persuasive legal arguments and technical documentation

• Comfortable mentoring and overseeing patent professionals

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage

• Retirement plan options

• Hybrid work flexibility with an emphasis on professional collaboration

• Exposure to high-profile clients and cutting-edge biotechnologies

• Supportive and inclusive workplace culture

• Opportunities for long-term professional growth within a nationally recognized IP practice

This Massachusetts-based law firm specializes in various aspects of intellectual property law. Some of its main areas of expertise are patents, trademark-copyright, litigation, and transactions-strategic counseling. The firm handles matters related to a wide range of technology industries, including biotechnology-pharmaceutical, electronics-computer technologies, and medical devices. A sizable number of highly proficient attorneys as well as a skillful support team are employed at this law practice.