Patent Attorney

Novartis • San Diego, CA

3d • $204,400 - $379,600 • Hybrid

About The Position

If you love the moment when breakthrough science becomes real-world impact, this is your seat at the table. As a Senior Patent Attorney at Novartis, you’ll partner directly with research and development teams to protect cutting-edge inventions, shape smart publication strategies, and build strong intellectual property portfolios that help bring innovative therapies to patients—while confidently navigating third party risk and global patent landscapes.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor with admission to a United States state bar and registration with the United States Patent Office.
• PhD in biology, biochemistry, or related life sciences such as molecular biology.
• Seven or more years experience as a patent attorney in a law firm or life sciences company.
• Strong scientific foundation, ideally including hands‑on laboratory experience in biological sciences.
• Expertise in United States and Patent Cooperation Treaty filing and prosecution, with working knowledge of European practice.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and stakeholder partnering skills; able to influence, prioritize, and deliver accurate work.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic intellectual property guidance to research and development teams, protecting inventions and reducing third‑party risk.
• Build and steer patent portfolios aligned to scientific strategy, product milestones, and long‑term value.
• Draft, file, prosecute, and maintain patent applications across United States and international jurisdictions.
• Provide opinions on patentability, validity, and freedom to operate to guide decisions.
• Shape publication and disclosure strategies balancing scientific visibility with robust protection and exclusivity options.
• Lead due diligence, risk evaluation, and mitigation for collaborations, licensing opportunities, and transactional projects.
• Partner with global colleagues and external counsel to deliver quality work on time and budget.

Benefits

• Health, life and disability benefits
• 401(k) with company contribution and match
• Generous time off package including vacation, personal days, holidays and other leaves
• Performance-based cash incentive
• Eligibility for annual equity awards

What This Job Offers

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