Junior Life Sciences Patent Prosecution Associate

Direct Counsel; Palo Alto (CA); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 155,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Law school tuition assistance

Healthcare benefits

Life insurance

HSA options

FSA options

Wellbeing benefits

Job summary

Direct Counsel is seeking a Junior Patent Agent or Technology Advisor with a strong science background in chemistry, chemical biology, or related fields to join a busy life sciences patent practice.

Responsibilities include prior art searches, FTO analyses, drafting patent applications, and assisting with prosecution and counseling. Hybrid work with in-office presence required, with potential law school tuition assistance for qualified candidates.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Chemical Biology, or related field is required or an M.D. with substantial research experience.
• Broad knowledge in biotechnology and life sciences.
• Strong understanding of chemistry and related scientific concepts.
• Excellent technical writing and analytical abilities.
• Superb written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to analyze complex patents and scientific literature.
• Highly motivated, curious, and able to learn quickly.
• Strong initiative and ability to work well in a team.

Responsibilities

• Conduct prior art searches and analyze results for patentability assessments.
• Conduct freedom-to-operate analyses.
• Review and analyze patents, applications, literature, and technical publications.
• Assist patent attorneys with prosecution, counseling, and litigation-related analysis.
• Draft patent applications involving sophisticated chemistry and life sciences technologies.
• Draft substantive responses to USPTO Office Actions.
• Assist with patent portfolio development and prosecution strategy.
• Participate in post-grant proceedings before the USPTO.
• Translate complex scientific concepts into clear, persuasive written work for patent matters.
• Collaborate with patent attorneys, scientists, inventors, and other life sciences team members.

Skills

Technical writing

Analytical abilities

Communication skills

Collaboration

Quick learner

Motivated

Education

Ph.D. in Chemistry or Chemical Biology

M.D. with substantial research experience

Job description

Direct Counsel is seeking a Junior Patent Agent or Technology Advisor with a strong science background in chemistry, chemical biology, or related fields to join a busy life sciences patent practice.

Responsibilities include prior art searches, FTO analyses, drafting patent applications, and assisting with prosecution and counseling. Hybrid work with in-office presence required, with potential law school tuition assistance for qualified candidates.