Mid-level Intellectual Property Associate Life Sciences

Profile

A law firm seeks a dynamic midlevel associate to join its Intellectual Property (IP) team in Washington, DC. The ideal candidate will have 1 to 5 years of experience in patent prosecution with a focus on biotechnology. The position requires an advanced degree, preferably a Ph.D., in a life sciences-related field. The successful applicant must have experience in patent prosecution within a biotechnology practice and be able to demonstrate their expertise in protecting IP for life sciences technologies. Membership with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is a must, and candidates must be willing to take and pass the patent bar exam if not already registered.

Duties:

• Manage patent prosecution processes for biotechnology and life sciences innovations, including preparing, filing, and prosecuting patent applications
• Conduct patentability assessments and provide IP strategies for clients in the biotechnology sector
• Collaborate with in-house legal teams and external clients to protect intellectual property
• Perform patent landscape analysis and ensure compliance with patent laws and regulations
• Advise clients on IP portfolio management and strategies for patent protection in various markets
• Prepare and review legal documents such as patent applications, office action responses, and amendments
• Assist with patent litigation, including coordinating with external counsel and providing support during discovery and trial preparation
• Stay up to date with developments in IP law, particularly in life sciences and biotechnology, to advise clients on evolving issues
• Build relationships with clients and offer practical solutions for complex patent-related matters

Requirements:

• 1 to 5 years of experience in patent prosecution, particularly within biotechnology or life sciences
• Proven ability to manage patent portfolios and prosecute patent applications
• Experience working with cutting-edge life sciences technologies and innovations
• Strong client-facing communication skills and the ability to manage multiple projects effectively
• Ability to provide strategic advice to clients on the protection of their intellectual property
• A desire to work in a collaborative team environment and contribute to the growth of the practice
• A high level of attention to detail and a proactive, solution-driven approach to legal work

Education:

• J.D. from an accredited law school
• An advanced degree (Ph.D. preferred) in a life sciences-related field such as biotechnology, molecular biology, or pharmacology

Certifications:

• Membership with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is required
• If not currently a member, candidates must be prepared to take and pass the patent bar exam within the first year of employment

Skills:

• Strong technical understanding of biotechnology and life sciences innovations
• Expertise in patent prosecution, including preparing and filing patent applications, responding to office actions, and managing patent portfolios
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts to non-experts
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple clients and deadlines simultaneously
• Knowledge of relevant patent laws and regulations, particularly within the life sciences sector
• Ability to build relationships with clients and provide strategic legal guidance on IP matters

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
• Retirement plan options, including 401(k) eligibility
• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and personal days
• Paid parental leave and bereavement leave
• Opportunities for professional development and continuing education
• Access to employee assistance programs, wellness initiatives, and work-life balance resources

This position offers an exciting opportunity to work in a growing and innovative IP practice with a focus on life sciences. If you are a motivated associate with a passion for protecting groundbreaking technologies, this could be the perfect next step in your career.

Company info

BCG Attorney Search
1629 K ST NW, Suite 300
Washington
District of Columbia
United States 20006
Phone : (202) 955-5585
Fax : (213) 895-7306