Patent Attorney

Novartis • San Diego, CA

1d • $185,500 - $344,500

About The Position

This person will lead and manage designated patent and related intellectual property activities within the Novartis research and development organization. The role provides strategic, business-focused counsel to R&D clients on invention protection, patent portfolio development, publication strategy, and third-party risks. It builds and manages patent portfolios by identifying inventions and preparing, prosecuting, maintaining, and defending patent filings across drug entities, processes, manufacturing, platforms, technologies, and clinical developments. The Patent Attorney also renders opinions on patentability, validity, and freedom to operate; develops strategies that strengthen IP positions and support effective IP defense; applies knowledge of national patent laws and other exclusivity protections; and conducts due diligence and risk assessments. The position supports transactions such as M&A, research collaborations, and in-licensing, including contract drafting and negotiation advice. It works closely with colleagues, leaders, outside counsel, collaborators, and stakeholders across a multicultural global patent function.

Requirements

• J.D. degree, admission to at least one state bar, and registration to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
• Advanced degree in chemistry or a closely related field, such as organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, or chemical engineering.
• At least 7 years of experience as a qualified patent attorney in a law firm or within the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry.
• Strong technical expertise in chemistry, preferably including small molecules, synthesis, or pharmaceutical development.
• Expertise in U.S. and PCT patent law, filing processes, and prosecution practice, with a detailed understanding of European patent law and other major global patent systems.
• Strong client-service orientation and ability to build and sustain effective partnerships with key stakeholders and project teams.

Nice To Haves

• Ph.D. in chemistry or a closely related field (strongly preferred).
• 1–2 years of exposure to drug discovery and development processes used in pharmaceutical and/or biotechnology companies.
• Strong analytical, presentation, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively.
• Strong research, critical-thinking, and decision-making skills, attention to detail, and commitment to accurate work.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills, with flexibility, creativity, and resourcefulness to manage competing priorities.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including partnership building, influence, persuasion, and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Provide clear, strategic, business-focused counsel to R&D clients on invention protection, portfolio development, publication strategy, and third-party risks.
• Build and manage patent portfolios by identifying inventions and preparing, prosecuting, maintaining, and defending patent filings across relevant R&D areas.
• Render legal opinions on patentability, validity, and freedom to operate.
• Develop patent strategies that strengthen IP positions, support freedom to operate, and enable effective IP defense.
• Apply knowledge of national patent law, legal developments, patent trends, and other forms of exclusivity protection to shape advice and strategy.
• Communicate with colleagues and leaders across legal, IP, and R&D organizations.
• Build and manage relationships with outside counsel and collaborators, including interaction within a multicultural global patent function.
• Conduct due diligence and advise on freedom to operate, infringement, validity, risk evaluation, and risk mitigation.
• Provide IP support for M&A, research collaborations, and in-licensing opportunities, including advice on contract drafting and negotiation.

Benefits

• Performance-based cash incentive.
• Eligibility to be considered for annual equity awards, depending on role level.
• Health, life, and disability benefits for eligible U.S.-based employees.
• 401(k) with company contribution and match.
• Other benefits.
• Generous time off package including vacation, personal days, holidays, and other leaves.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree