IP&T Patent Agent or Technical Specialist

Description:

Culture and Engagement at Dentons
Fostering an inclusive and welcoming culture is a core priority at Dentons. We are committed to creating an environment that values and respects the contributions of all colleagues. By attracting, supporting, promoting and retaining highly qualified individuals of various backgrounds and experiences, we strengthen our ability to provide innovative solutions, deliver exceptional client service, and advance the success of our Firm. Dentons takes an active approach to promoting a collaborative and inclusive workplace by investing in professional development and culture initiatives.

Responsibilities and practice:
The Pittsburgh office of Dentons Cohen & Grigsby P.C. is seeking a detail-oriented and knowledgeable Patent Agent/Technical Specialist to support our legal team. This role offers the opportunity to work on a wide variety of technical innovations and collaborate with clients ranging from start-ups to major corporations. A hybrid work option is available for qualified candidates. Expected responsibilities include:

• Draft detailed and accurate patent applications to protect client inventions effectively
• Manage patent prosecution processes, including responding to office actions and obtaining patent allowances
• Conduct prior art searches, analyze patentability, prepare responses to office actions, and advise clients on patent strategy
• Review invention disclosures, conduct freedom-to-operate analyses, and support due diligence efforts related to intellectual property portfolios
• Develop strategies to address challenges in patent law, such as subject matter eligibility
• Collaborate with clients to understand their technical innovations and develop and implement comprehensive IP strategies that align with business objectives
• Deliver high-quality work while meeting client deadlines and internal production targets
• Participate in training opportunities and contribute to a collegial, team-oriented work environment

This is a great opportunity to join a dynamic team that is passionate about what they do and gain meaningful experience while enjoying the benefits and resources of a global law firm.

Position Requirements:
Personal skills/attributes:

• Bachelor's or advanced degree in a life sciences discipline such as molecular biology, biochemistry, microbiology, genetics, immunology, or a related field. For Patent Agent candidates, active registration with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is required, with good standing
• A minimum of 3 years of hands-on experience in drafting and prosecuting patent applications
• Strong writing skills, with the ability to prepare comprehensive patent applications and persuasive responses to office actions
• In-depth knowledge of current patent law issues and strategies for navigating them
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to prioritize multiple tasks efficiently
• Proactive and self-motivated, with a focus on professional growth and client satisfaction

Technical skills:

• Expertise in technical areas such as CRISPR, antibody therapeutics, cell and gene therapy, recombinant DNA, or bioinformatics is highly desirable
• Exceptional ability to articulate and document complex technical innovations
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to build and maintain client relationships
• Capacity to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented setting

Other Requirements:
Active registration with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is required, in good standing

Equal opportunities:
Dentons Cohen & Grigsby is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

How to Apply:
Search Firms:
Search firms may click here to email email Brandon Zimmerman, Director of Human Resources. In order to be considered, please include a cover letter and resume.
Direct applicants may click below to email Brandon Zimmerman, Director of Human Resources (brandon.zimmerman@dentons.com). In order to be considered, please include a resume and law school transcripts (unofficial transcript is acceptable).

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