Patent Agent - Chemistry
About The Position
A nationally recognized intellectual property law firm is seeking a registered Patent Agent with a strong chemistry background to join its Washington, DC office. The firm is specifically seeking candidates with substantial academic or professional experience in organic chemistry, small-molecule chemistry, chemical synthesis, medicinal chemistry, pharmaceutical compounds, or closely related chemical technologies. This is a chemistry-focused patent prosecution position supporting brand-name pharmaceutical companies and other innovators developing new chemical compounds and products. The successful candidate will work with a highly regarded chemical patent practice representing sophisticated clients in patent prosecution, portfolio development, strategic counseling, opinions, post-grant matters, and litigation support.
Requirements
- Degree in chemistry with substantial coursework or research involving organic chemistry, small molecules, chemical synthesis, medicinal chemistry, or related technologies
- 2+ years of experience drafting and prosecuting chemical patent applications is required
- Registration to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office is required
- Strong scientific writing, analytical, and communication skills
- Ability to understand complex chemical technologies and explain them clearly
Nice To Haves
- An advanced degree, particularly a Ph.D. in organic chemistry or a closely related field, is preferred
- Experience representing brand-name pharmaceutical companies, emerging pharmaceutical companies, or other chemical innovators is beneficial
Responsibilities
- Prepare and prosecute U.S. and international patent applications
- Evaluate the underlying chemistry and commercial importance of new inventions
- Work with inventors and clients to develop effective patent strategies
- Assist with patentability, freedom-to-operate, validity, and infringement analyses
- Support opinion preparation and strategic client counseling
- Assist with global patent portfolio development and management
- Provide scientific and technical support in post-grant proceedings and patent litigation
- Analyze complex chemical technologies, prior art, and patent claims
Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance, including telehealth services
- Firm-paid life, accidental death and dismemberment, and long-term disability insurance
- Pre-tax 401(k) and Roth retirement options
- Paid medical, family, and parental leave
- Flexible spending accounts for healthcare, dependent care, and eligible transportation expenses
- Wellness and employee-assistance programs
- Backup childcare, sick-childcare, and eldercare resources
- Flexible, reduced, and part-time work-schedule options
- Domestic-partner benefits
- Pet insurance
- Pre-retirement planning assistance
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
