Patent Agent

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Job Title:
Patent Agent

Job Overview:
A law firm based in San Diego, CA, is seeking a skilled and driven Patent Agent to support its expanding Intellectual Property team. This position offers an exciting chance to work alongside experienced attorneys, clients, and inventors focused on groundbreaking developments in chemistry, molecular biology, and therapeutics. The role blends hands-on patent prosecution with strategic counseling, making it ideal for individuals passionate about life sciences innovation and intellectual property law.

Duties:

• Prepare and prosecute domestic and international patent applications in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors

• Draft substantive responses to office actions from the USPTO

• Conduct patent landscape, prior art, and freedom-to-operate (FTO) searches and analysis

• Collaborate directly with inventors, scientists, and stakeholders to align patent strategy with business and R&D goals

• Manage and advise on IP portfolios and strategy

• Coordinate with international legal representatives for global prosecution efforts

• Monitor legal developments and scientific advancements in relevant fields

Requirements:

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in patent prosecution related to therapeutics

• Demonstrated knowledge of IP strategy for life sciences companies

• Proven ability to conduct FTO assessments and strategic patent counseling

• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously

• Comfortable working both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team

Education:

• Advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in chemistry, molecular biology, or a related life sciences discipline

• A biology background is acceptable with relevant IP experience

Certifications:

• Registration to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)

Skills:

• Excellent technical writing and analytical skills

• Clear and persuasive communication abilities for client and inventor interactions

• Detail-oriented with sound judgment in legal and scientific evaluation

• Familiarity with U.S. and foreign patent procedures

Job Location:

• San Diego, CA (hybrid flexibility available)

Benefits:

• Access to medical (HMO/PPO), dental (HMO/PPO), and vision insurance plans

• Flexible spending accounts (FSA) and health savings accounts (HSA) options

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and wellness program incentives

• Comprehensive 401(k) with profit-sharing contributions

• Generous paid time off and firm-wide holidays

• Professional development and advancement opportunities

• Collaborative work environment with supportive leadership

Company info

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