Junior – Mid level Biology Associate

McDonnell Boehnen Hulbert & Berghoff•Chicago, IL

3d•Onsite

About The Position

McDonnell Boehnen Hulbert & Berghoff LLP (MBHB) seeks a Life Science Patent Attorney at the associate level with technical expertise in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or biotechnology, with two to six years of experience in patent prosecution and client counseling. This role involves assisting with patent prosecution and counseling for a diverse range of clients, including Fortune 100 companies, startups, and academic institutions. The attorney will prepare, file, and prosecute patent applications, ensuring high-quality, timely deliverables and demonstrating the ability to work independently with minimal oversight. A key aspect of the role is collaborating with clients and inventors to understand their technologies and provide technical insights to inform patent strategies. The position requires developing strong, professional relationships with clients, effectively communicating complex technical concepts to both legal and non-legal audiences, and representing the firm's technical expertise with clear, strategic advice. The role also includes contributing to the firm's business development efforts, managing client budgets, ensuring efficient resource use and project timelines, and demonstrating excellent time management and responsiveness. Additionally, the attorney will assist in building a collaborative team culture, participate in professional development programs, and provide informal guidance to junior practitioners. Staying abreast of industry developments, scientific advancements, and legal trends in patent law is crucial, along with an eagerness for continuous learning and growth in both technical and legal expertise.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, biotechnology, or a related life sciences field, combined with substantial industry or research experience.
2 – 6 years of patent prosecution experience in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or biology sectors.
Licensed to practice law in Illinois (or licensed in another state and qualified to sit for the Illinois Bar Exam OR admission on motion into Illinois).
Admission to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is required.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex scientific concepts clearly and concisely in both legal and technical contexts.
Strong legal analysis and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think creatively and strategically in patent prosecution and client counseling.
Ability to manage effectively an active prosecution docket that includes multiple clients and cases while maintaining strong client relationships.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage time and meet deadlines efficiently.
Ambition and adaptability, with a desire to contribute to the growth of the firm and advance in leadership.
A proactive attitude toward taking on new challenges, providing constructive feedback, and supporting junior team members.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree or Ph.D. in a relevant discipline.
Experience working with academic institutions, startups, and mid-sized companies in the biotech or pharma space is preferred.

Responsibilities

Assist with patent prosecution and counseling for a diverse range of clients, including Fortune 100 companies, startups, and academic institutions.
Assist with the preparation, filing, and prosecution of patent applications while ensuring high-quality, timely deliverables.
Demonstrate the ability to work independently with minimal oversight.
Interact with clients and understand their technologies and provide technical insights that help inform patent strategies.
Develop strong, professional relationships with clients, effectively communicating complex technical concepts to both legal and non-legal audiences while representing the firm's technical expertise and providing clear, strategic advice.
Contribute to the firm’s business development efforts and strategic growth.
Manage client budgets, ensuring efficient use of resources and maintaining project timelines.
Demonstrate excellent time management skills and responsiveness in all client interactions.
Assist in building a collaborative, growth-oriented team culture.
Participate as a mentee in the professional development program and provide informal guidance to junior practitioners and other team members.
Stay abreast of industry developments, scientific advancements, and legal trends in patent law.
Exhibit an eagerness to continue learning and growing both in your technical and legal expertise.