Income Partner (Non-Equity) – Biology

MBHB (McDonnell Boehnen Hulbert & Berghoff LLP); Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 220,000 - 270,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading law firm in Chicago seeks a Life Science Patent Attorney at the Partner level, seeking candidates with a Ph.D. in relevant fields and 5-10 years of patent prosecution experience. This role emphasizes managing client portfolios, business development, and mentorship in a collaborative environment. A portable book of business is essential for driving success within the firm. The anticipated salary is between $220,000 and $270,000, complemented by bonusing opportunities based on performance.

Qualifications

• 5-10 years of patent prosecution experience in biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or biology sectors.
• Licensed to practice law in Illinois or admission on motion into Illinois.
• Admission to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

Responsibilities

• Manage patent prosecution for a diverse range of clients.
• Interact with clients to provide technical insights.
• Contribute to firm's business development efforts.
• Mentor junior practitioners and build collaborative culture.
• Manage client budgets and timelines efficiently.
• Stay updated on industry developments and legal trends.

Skills

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Strong legal analysis and problem-solving skills

Ability to manage an active prosecution docket

Strong organizational skills

Experience in training junior practitioners

Ambition and adaptability

Proactive attitude

Education

Advanced degree (Ph.D.) in relevant life sciences field

Job description

Location

Chicago, IL

Job Description

McDonnell Boehnen Hulbert & Berghoff LLP (MBHB) seeks a Life Science Patent Attorney at the Partner level (Income Partner or Non‑Equity Partner) with technical expertise in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or biotechnology and five to ten years of patent prosecution and client counseling experience in those technical areas. MBHB offers a collaborative, high‑growth environment for ambitious leaders eager to contribute to our strategic pipeline planning and to the potential for promotion to Equity Partner. A portable book of business is required, as your addition to our practice group will be integral in driving the success of our existing clients and expanding your own practice. This is an ideal opportunity for a technically skilled advocate who is driven to expand their practice and advance their career within a dynamic and innovative firm.

Salary Range

$220,000 – $270,000

Key Responsibilities

• Patent Prosecution: On‑board and manage portable client portfolios. Manage patent prosecution for a diverse range of clients, including Fortune 100 companies, startups, and academic institutions. Prepare, file, and prosecute patent applications while ensuring high‑quality, timely deliverables. Demonstrate the ability to work independently with minimal oversight.
• Client & Inventor Collaboration: Interact with clients to understand their technologies and provide technical insights that inform patent strategies. Maintain strong, professional relationships with clients, effectively communicating complex technical concepts to both legal and non‑legal audiences while representing the firm’s technical expertise and providing clear, strategic advice.
• Business Development: A portable book of business is required for this role. Willingness to contribute to the firm’s business development efforts and strategic growth.
• Team Development & Mentorship: Provide mentorship and guidance to junior practitioners and other team members. Assist in building a collaborative, growth‑oriented team culture and support pipeline planning efforts within the firm.
• Budget & Time Management: Manage client budgets, ensuring efficient use of resources and maintaining project timelines. Demonstrate excellent time management skills and responsiveness in all client interactions.
• Continuous Professional Development: Stay abreast of industry developments, scientific advancements, and legal trends in patent law. Exhibit eagerness to continue learning and growing both in technical and legal expertise.

Job Requirements

Qualifications

Education

• Advanced degree (Ph.D.) in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, biotechnology, or a related life sciences field. A master’s degree and/or substantial industry or research experience may also be considered.

Experience

• 5‑10 years of patent prosecution experience in biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or biology sectors.
• Demonstrated success in establishing, developing, and maintaining a steady book of business.
• Experience working with academic institutions, startups, and mid‑sized companies in the biotech or pharma space.
• Licensed to practice law in Illinois (or licensed in another state and qualified to sit for the Illinois Bar Exam or admission on motion into Illinois).
• Admission to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is required.

Skills

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex scientific concepts clearly and concisely in both legal and technical contexts.
• Strong legal analysis and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to think creatively and strategically in patent prosecution and client counseling.
• Ability to manage an active prosecution docket that includes multiple clients and cases while maintaining strong client relationships.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage time and meet deadlines efficiently.
• Experience in training junior practitioners and overseeing and reviewing work product.
• Ambition and adaptability, with a desire to contribute to the growth of the firm and advance in leadership.
• A proactive attitude toward taking on new challenges, providing constructive feedback, and supporting junior team members.

Compensation

The anticipated base salary for this position is $220,000 – $270,000. In addition to base pay, practitioners are eligible for an origination bonus for each client brought to the firm and a productivity bonus for all hours billed in excess of the 1,900‑hour requirement.

Benefits

Visit our website to learn more about the benefits provided: MBHB Benefits.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

MBHB is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity or expression, or any other protected group status under the law. MBHB is an affirmative action/Equal Opportunity Employer in accordance with regulations adopted by the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities.