Patent Agent

Capstone Search Partners; Miami, Raleigh, Columbia, Boston, Charleston (FL, NC, SC, MA, SC); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A nationally recognized law firm seeks an experienced Patent Agent to join its dynamic Intellectual Property team. The ideal candidate will possess a Ph.D. in Life Sciences and have at least 5 years of experience in patent prosecution, working on complex matters for diverse clients.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in patent prosecution.
• Registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
• Strong understanding of U.S. and international patent laws.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, draft, and prosecute U.S. and international patent applications in life sciences.
• Conduct patentability assessments and freedom-to-operate analyses.
• Assist in IP strategy development and portfolio management.

Skills

Technical writing

Analytical skills

Communication

Education

Ph.D. in Life Sciences

Job description

The Opportunity: Patent Agent

Job Summary

A nationally recognized law firm is seeking an experienced Patent Agent to join its dynamic Intellectual Property (IP) team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in life sciences, possess a Ph.D. in a related field, and have at least five (5) years of experience in patent prosecution. This is an excellent opportunity to work with a highly respected team handling complex patent matters for a diverse range of clients, from biotech startups to multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies.

Job Description

• Prepare, draft, and prosecute U.S. and international patent applications in the life sciences sector, including biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and related disciplines.
• Conduct patentability assessments, freedom-to-operate analyses, and due diligence reviews to support client business strategies.
• Collaborate closely with inventors, scientists, and legal teams to develop strong patent portfolios that align with clients' research and commercialization goals.
• Assist in IP strategy development, portfolio management, and competitive landscape analysis for clients in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries.
• Monitor industry trends, scientific advancements, and regulatory developments to provide informed legal guidance to clients.
• Work with attorneys on IP litigation support, post-grant proceedings, and opinion work, including validity and infringement analyses.
• Communicate effectively with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and foreign patent offices regarding patent prosecution matters.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Life Sciences (e.g., Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, Immunology, Microbiology, or a related field) is required.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in patent prosecution, preferably in a law firm or corporate setting.
• Exposure to IP due diligence, licensing, and transactional work.
• Familiarity with post-grant proceedings, including IPRs and oppositions.
• Registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
• Strong understanding of U.S. and international patent laws, regulations, and procedures.
• Excellent technical writing and analytical skills with a keen attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, client-focused environment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills for interacting with clients, attorneys, and technical professionals.