Biology Patent Prosecution Associate (Hybrid)

MBHB (McDonnell Boehnen Hulbert & Berghoff LLP); Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 115,000 - 145,000; Full time

Job summary

MBHB seeks a Life Science Patent Agent with expertise in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or biotechnology, and 2–6 years of patent prosecution experience to join our Chicago office.

You will prepare, file, and prosecute patent applications, interact with clients and inventors, support business development, manage dockets, and contribute to a collaborative, growth-minded team culture.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or biotech with relevant experience.
• Master’s or Ph.D. in a life sciences field preferred.
• 2–6 years of patent prosecution experience in biotech/pharma.
• Admission to USPTO is required.
• Experience with academia, startups, or mid-sized biotech/pharma firms preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist with patent prosecution for diverse clients; prepare, file, and prosecute applications.
• Interact with clients and inventors; translate science to legal strategy.
• Support business development and strategic growth.
• Manage client budgets and project timelines.
• Mentor junior practitioners and contribute to team development.
• Stay updated on industry and legal trends.

Skills

Scientific communication

Patent prosecution

Client counseling

Docket management

Team mentorship

Leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in life sciences

Master’s/Ph.D. preferred

Job description

MBHB seeks a Life Science Patent Agent with expertise in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or biotechnology, and 2–6 years of patent prosecution experience to join our Chicago office.

You will prepare, file, and prosecute patent applications, interact with clients and inventors, support business development, manage dockets, and contribute to a collaborative, growth-minded team culture.