Patent Agent

Elanco•Indianapolis, IN

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

As a Patent Agent on our Intellectual Property (IP) team, you will be a key partner to our R&D organization, playing a crucial role in protecting Elanco’s cutting-edge science. In this role, you'll be responsible for advancing our small and/or large molecule programs by drafting and prosecuting high-quality patent applications. Your work will directly contribute to safeguarding the innovation that drives our mission to enrich life.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree or higher in Biology, Chemistry, or a related scientific/technical field.
A minimum of 3 years of experience in patent prosecution and portfolio management.
Registered as a Patent Agent with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) or eligible and willing to sit for the USPTO Patent Agent examination.
Qualified candidates must be legally authorized to be employed in the United States.
Elanco does not anticipate providing sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H-1B or TN status) for this position.

Nice To Haves

An advanced degree (Ph.D. or M.S.) in a relevant scientific field.
Experience with small and/or large molecule inventions, biologics (including monoclonal antibodies), and/or life science patent applications.
Previous experience as a Patent Examiner at the USPTO.
Demonstrated ability to communicate complex topics effectively and collaborate in a fast-paced, interdisciplinary environment.

Responsibilities

Draft, file, and prosecute high-quality U.S. patent applications before the USPTO, collaborating closely with R&D scientists to identify and protect innovations.
Manage a global patent portfolio by directing and overseeing outside counsel for international patent prosecution, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
Conduct and analyze prior art searches, freedom-to-operate (FTO), and patent landscape assessments to guide R&D and patent filing strategies.
Provide key intellectual property support for due diligence activities and partner with legal, regulatory, and business development teams to align IP strategy with business goals.
Foster a culture of IP awareness by educating and training R&D teams and monitoring competitor patent activity to inform and manage Elanco's IP portfolio.