Senior Patent Attorney - Pharma IP Strategy & Leadership

Novartis; South Dakota; Hybrid; USD 186,000 - 345,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based incentive

Equity eligibility

Comprehensive benefits package

401(k) with company match

Job summary

Novartis seeks a Patent Attorney II to lead and manage patent and IP activities within R&D. The role is based in San Diego or Cambridge, with a hybrid work arrangement 3x/week in office.

You will counsel on invention protection, build and maintain patent portfolios, and provide IP strategies across diverse areas from small molecules to manufacturing. Strong US/PCT expertise and 7+ years of experience are required.

Qualifications

• J.D. degree with bar admission and USPTO registration.
• Ph.D. strongly preferred in chemistry or related field.
• 7+ years as a qualified patent attorney in pharma/biotech.
• Strong chemistry expertise including small molecules/synthesis.
• Familiar with US and PCT patent law and prosecution; knowledge of European systems.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic, business-focused IP counsel to R&D clients on invention protection and publication strategy.
• Build and manage patent portfolios across molecules, processes, platforms, and clinical developments.
• Render opinions on patentability, validity, and freedom to operate; develop IP strategies.
• Advise on exclusivity protection and global patent strategy; interact with global teams.
• Conduct due diligence and provide risk assessments for transactions like M&A and collaborations.
• Support transactional matters with contract drafting and negotiation input.

Skills

US patent law

PCT patent practice

Pharmaceutical chemistry

Client relationship management

Strategic IP counsel

Education

J.D. degree

Ph.D. in Chemistry or related field

Job description

Novartis seeks a Patent Attorney II to lead and manage patent and IP activities within R&D. The role is based in San Diego or Cambridge, with a hybrid work arrangement 3x/week in office.

You will counsel on invention protection, build and maintain patent portfolios, and provide IP strategies across diverse areas from small molecules to manufacturing. Strong US/PCT expertise and 7+ years of experience are required.