Life Sciences Patent Prosecution Attorney

Location: Philadelphia, PA | Hybrid
Compensation: $215,500–$320,000 + Bonus

Direct Counsel is representing a highly regarded national law firm seeking a Life Sciences Patent Prosecution Associate to join its sophisticated Intellectual Property practice.

This is an excellent opportunity for a patent attorney with a strong scientific background to work on complex biotechnology and life sciences patent matters for clients ranging from innovative startups to major global companies.

The firm is preferencing candidates in Philadelphia, although candidates located near other firm offices may also be considered.

Position Overview

The ideal candidate will have 2+ years of biotechnology patent prosecution experience, an advanced degree in the biological sciences (Ph.D. strongly preferred), and registration to practice before the USPTO.

Candidates should have meaningful experience preparing and prosecuting patent applications involving biologics, biotechnology, or other large-molecule technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare, file, and prosecute U.S. and international patent applications involving biotechnology and life sciences technologies.
• Manage domestic and international patent prosecution matters throughout the patent lifecycle.
• Conduct and analyze freedom-to-operate, IP due diligence, infringement, validity, and patent landscape searches.
• Counsel clients regarding patent strategy, portfolio development and management, and enforcement considerations.
• Communicate with clients, the USPTO, foreign associates, and internal legal teams regarding prosecution strategy.
• Work closely with attorneys and scientists on sophisticated biotechnology and life sciences intellectual property matters.
• Contribute to a collaborative and entrepreneurial IP practice with significant opportunities for professional development.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience as a patent attorney handling biotechnology or life sciences patent matters.
• Advanced degree in a relevant biological science; Ph.D. preferred.
• Scientific backgrounds may include:
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cell Biology
  • Microbiology
  • Immunology
  • Genetics
  • Biochemistry
  • Biotechnology
  • Related life sciences disciplines
• Experience preparing and prosecuting patent applications involving biologics or other large-molecule technologies.
• Experience conducting freedom-to-operate, patent landscape, validity, infringement, and/or IP due diligence analyses.
• USPTO registration in good standing required.
• Admission to at least one U.S. state bar.
• Prior law firm experience preferred.
• Strong academic credentials.
• Excellent legal writing, analytical, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple sophisticated matters and competing deadlines.
• Permanent authorization to work in the United States.

Compensation & Benefits

Base Salary: $215,500–$320,000, depending on experience.

Additional compensation opportunities may include discretionary and hours-based bonuses.

The firm also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and retirement programs, along with a strong culture of mentorship, professional development, and advancement.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

This role offers the opportunity to combine an advanced scientific background with sophisticated patent practice while working alongside experienced intellectual property attorneys on cutting-edge life sciences technologies.

For a Ph.D.-level patent attorney with biotechnology prosecution experience, this is an opportunity to join a nationally recognized platform while developing a long-term career in life sciences intellectual property.

Direct Counsel is committed to connecting exceptional legal professionals with leading law firms and legal organizations nationwide.