Patent Agent (Molecular Biology)

DLA Piper is, at its core, bold, exceptional, collaborative and supportive.  Our people are the backbone, heart and soul of our firm.  Wherever you are in your professional journey, DLA Piper is a place you can engage in meaningful work and grow your career.  Let’s see what we can achieve. Together.

Summary

DLA Piper is seeking a Patent Agent with 3-5 years of experience to join its Patent Development and Strategy Group for our Boston, Philadelphia, DC, San Diego or Palo Alto office.  The ideal candidate will have experience preparing and prosecuting patent applications.  In particular, the candidate must have experience and degree in molecular biology or related subject area. Candidates who have litigation, opinion, licensing, patent due diligence, and/or patent prosecution experience are preferred.  All candidates must be registered with the USPTO.

Interested candidates should apply online.  In addition to submitting a resume, please submit the following writing samples: at least one application to the USPTO and at least one response to the USPTO in each of the 1) chemical and 2) electrical or mechanical arts.  

Responsibilities

• Drafts patent applications.
• Drafts responses to USPTO office actions.
• Works closely with attorneys for patent preparation and prosecution.
• Drafts instructions to foreign patent agents in response to office actions.
• Maintains a detailed understanding of products and technical developments.
• Conducts patentability studies and drafts related assessments.
• Provides technical support for opinions, diligence projects and litigation.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills and Competencies Must have excellent communication and research skills. Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment. Strong attention to detail as well as excellent analytical skills. Must be able to understand and resolve complex issues and situations.

Education

• 4 Year / Bachelor's Degree

• Degree in a technical or scientific field

Preferred Education

• Master's Degree

Job Requirements

• 3-5 years of experience preparing and prosecuting patent applications
• A degree in molecular biology or related scientific discipline
• Registration with the USPTO

Essential Job Expectations

All DLA Piper employees are expected to demonstrate excellence in how we serve our clients and develop our people, upholding our firm values as part of our culture. Specific expectations include:

• Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with clients, lawyers, business professionals, and external audiences.

• Produce high-quality work and respond to correspondence in an efficient, timely, and professional manner.

• Meet deadlines, manage competing priorities, and commit to meeting high standards.

• Comply with firm policies and procedures.

• Maintain confidences as required in a law firm environment.

Physical Demands Sedentary work: This is primarily sedentary work, requiring occasional exertion of up to 10 pounds of force to lift, carry, push, pull, or move objects. The role involves sitting for extended periods, with occasional walking and standing, and occasional travel, both domestic and international.

Work Environment-The firm's work location requirements may be modified at the firm's discretion

• Opportunity for a hybrid work arrangement combining remote and in-office work. The specific arrangement will be determined at the time of hiring and may be modified at the firm's discretion.
• Remote / Work-from-home

Disclaimer

Application Process: Interested candidates must apply directly online. Application materials sent via email will not be accepted. Reasonable accommodations may be made upon request to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position or participate in the selection process. For accommodation requests, please contact [email protected].

Agency applications will not be considered.

No immigration sponsorship is available for this position.

Applicants who are not based in the jurisdiction in which this position is posted and who apply for this role are doing so voluntarily and are not eligible for relocation assistance. Any relocation benefits, if any, are provided only where a relocation is required at the firm’s direction and in accordance with applicable policy and law.

This job description provides a concise overview of the role and is not intended to describe all work elements that may be performed. It should not serve as the sole criteria for personnel decisions. Job duties, requirements, and expectations may be modified at the firm's discretion at any time. This job description does not alter the at-will nature of employment.

We are committed to excellence in how we serve our clients and develop our people.

Pay Transparency 

The firm’s expected hiring range for this position is $120,000 - $225,000 per year depending on the candidate’s geographic market location. The compensation offered for employment will also be dependent on other factors including the candidate’s experience, skills, educational and professional background, and overall qualifications. We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including medical/dental/vision insurance, and 401(k).

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DLA Piper is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. Job applicant poster viewing center.