Strategic Life Sciences Patent Prosecution Associate

Barnes & Thornburg LLP

Ann Arbor (MI)

On-site

USD 160,000 - 230,000

Full time

3 days ago

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Job summary

Barnes & Thornburg LLP is seeking an associate with 1–4 years of life sciences patent prosecution experience to join its Intellectual Property Department. You will help sophisticated clients protect and use innovations at the frontier of pharmaceuticals, specialty chemicals, and ag-biotech technologies.

The ideal candidate has an advanced degree in organic chemistry and will have hands‑on experience in U.S.

Qualifications

1–4 years of patent preparation and prosecution experience in life sciences
J.D. from an accredited law school with strong academic credentials
Registration to practice before the USPTO
Advanced degree in organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, or closely related field
Excellent writing, analytical, and communication skills
Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple deadlines

Responsibilities

Patent preparation and prosecution: Draft and prosecute U.S. and international applications for life sciences technologies, including PCT/foreign filings.
Inventor and examiner engagement: Conduct inventor interviews and prepare responses to Office Actions.
Portfolio strategy: Develop prosecution and global filing strategies aligned with client goals.
Strategic analyses: Conduct patentability, freedom-to-operate, validity and non-infringement analyses.
Transactional and diligence support: Assess portfolios for financings, licenses, and M&A; draft related opinions.
Client and team collaboration: Work with in‑house counsel, R&D scientists, and colleagues across IP practice areas.