PhD-Level Biotech Patent Prosecution Associate

About the Role

Join a growing life sciences practice at a boutique intellectual property law firm. You will work with senior patent attorneys to draft and prosecute biotech patent applications, support clients through the patent process, and help manage a growing caseload.

What You'll Do

• Draft and prosecute U.S. and international patent applications in biotechnology and life sciences.
• Respond to USPTO communications and participate in interviews with patent examiners.
• Review invention disclosures, experimental results, and scientific data with inventors and scientific teams.
• Conduct prior art searches and patentability analyses using patent search databases and prosecution tools.
• Prepare patent claim charts and support due diligence and freedom-to-operate projects.
• Engage directly with clients and inventors, and mentor junior associates or support staff on prosecution matters.

What We're Looking For

• Zero to three years of patent prosecution experience in biotechnology or life sciences, including drafting and prosecuting PCT applications and foreign national filings.
• A PhD in a life sciences field such as biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, or immunology, with strong technical coursework.
• A J.D. from an accredited law school; patent agent candidates are not being considered.
• USPTO registration or eligibility to sit for the patent bar.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience working directly with clients and communicating technical concepts to inventors.
• Experience mentoring junior associates or support staff in a patent prosecution setting.

Compensation & Benefits

The salary range is $115,000 to $145,000 annually. Visa sponsorship is not available.

Location

This is a hybrid role with a primary location in San Diego, California. The position may also be based in Pasadena or Long Beach, California.