Head of Intellectual Property

Lila Sciences•Cambridge, MA

9d•$238,000 - $304,000

About The Position

Lila Sciences is looking for a Head of Intellectual Property (IP) to lead our growing IP function. You will design and implement IP strategies that protect Lila’s innovations across AI, software, hardware, life sciences, and physical sciences. You’ll collaborate closely with technical teams and leadership to align IP protection with our scientific and commercial vision.

Requirements

J.D. and admission to practice before the USPTO
10+ years of IP legal experience, including significant in-house work
Expertise in patent strategy, prosecution, and portfolio management
Significant experience advising on transactions involving IP
Proven ability to work cross-functionally in fast-moving, interdisciplinary environments
Excellent communicator and business-minded legal thinker

Nice To Haves

Industry experience in AI/ML, software, or lab automation is strongly preferred
Technical fluency in life sciences, physical sciences, or engineering is a plus
Passion for using AI in the practice of law
Experience managing IP litigation and/or advocating for policy change is a bonus

Responsibilities

Define and champion Lila’s global IP strategy across software, hardware, and scientific platforms
Set portfolio priorities & publication policies that balance open science with robust protection of patents and trade secrets
Harvest inventions and lead end‑to-end patent prosecution in close partnership with engineers and scientists
Drive IP diligence for partnerships, licensing, and M&A transactions, including freedom‑to-operate analyses
Oversee IP enforcement and dispute resolution, managing outside counsel and budget where necessary
Advise cross‑functional teams (R&D, product, commercial) on IP risks and opportunities throughout development
Engage with industry groups and regulators to advance innovation‑friendly IP policy and thought leadership