Senior Patent Counsel, Pharma IP Strategy

Eli Lilly and Company; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 230,000 - 372,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus program

Comprehensive benefits

Job summary

Lilly in Indianapolis seeks an experienced and strategic patent attorney to guide IP strategy for pharmaceutical assets across discovery, development, and commercialization. You will collaborate with the Lilly Legal Patent team, project teams, and business leadership, owning advice on exclusivity, freedom to operate, and patent prosecution.

This role reports to the Associate Vice President – IP Procurement and Strategy and demands leadership, strong communication, and the ability to manage

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited U.S. institution.
• At least ten years post-JD as patent attorney with pharma assets and prosecution experience.
• Licensed to practice in at least one U.S. jurisdiction and before the USPTO; in good standing.
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in a scientific field related to pharmaceuticals.
• Legally authorized to work in the United States; Lilly does not anticipate visa sponsorship.

Responsibilities

• Develop comprehensive global patent strategies for key pharmaceutical assets.
• Draft and prosecute patent applications; assess freedom to operate.
• Advise teams and senior management on exclusivity, patentability, and risks.
• Stay current on global laws and regulations; apply knowledge to responsibilities.
• Lead and manage projects; contribute to policy implementation; foster collaboration.
• Contribute to efficiency, collegiality, and teamwork.

Skills

Leadership

Collaboration

Strategic thinking

Communication

Project management

Education

Juris Doctor (J.D.)

Science background (bachelor or higher)

Job description

Lilly in Indianapolis seeks an experienced and strategic patent attorney to guide IP strategy for pharmaceutical assets across discovery, development, and commercialization. You will collaborate with the Lilly Legal Patent team, project teams, and business leadership, owning advice on exclusivity, freedom to operate, and patent prosecution.

This role reports to the Associate Vice President – IP Procurement and Strategy and demands leadership, strong communication, and the ability to manage