Biotech Patent Paralegal (Entry Level)

SUMMARY:

The Biotech Patent Paralegal will support the Biotech Practice Group with billable patent prosecution related projects specific to their area of technology. The Biotech Patent Paralegal assists the various practice groups with management of their prior art databases and duty of disclosure requirements for their domestic and foreign patent matters for specific clients. In addition, this role is also responsible for additional prosecution related projects assigned.  The billable goal for this position is 1200 hours.

DAY TO DAY:

• Conduct basic biotech literature searches.
• Analyze and prepare DNA and amino acid sequence listings in connection with patent application filings.
• Convert drawings to text in patent application specifications.
• Prepare drawings and send to draftsmen for preparation; proofread formal drawings for patent applications.
• Prepare case charts and docket reports.
• Prepare description of scientific data for patent applications; assist with setting up patent application documents
• Prepare and file Information Disclosure Statements with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
• Prepare disclosures of information for submission with foreign patent offices and coordinate with foreign associates regarding same.
• Review Office Actions from U.S. and foreign patent offices for cited references.
• Review patent files for prior art before payment of issue fee and upon intake into the firm.
• Effectively organize references in connection with patent portfolios into prior art databases and routinely maintain these databases.
• Compile, populate and maintain electronic archive of prior art.
• Correspond with clients and work with Firm’s library department to collect materials needed in connection with duty of disclosure.
• Manage attorney and client dockets relating to the duty of disclosure in U.S. and foreign jurisdictions and meet regularly with attorneys regarding same.
• Develop and maintain knowledge of patent office rules and procedures in connection with U.S. and foreign duty of disclosure and other areas of patent prosecution.
• Meet the department’s 1200 hour billable hour goal and adhere to. best practice for daily time entry.
• Perform additional patent prosecution related projects.
•  Work with team to collaborate on large projects; promote a positive work environment

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelors or Masters degree in Biology or Biochemistry
•  A minimum of one to two (1-2) years of prior experience working in a corporate setting
• Prior patent prosecution related experience in a law firm or corporate setting a plus
• Proficient in MS Outlook, Word, and Excel as well as basic computer and database management skills.
• Knowledge of Dialog, STN, GenomeQuest, and/or PatBase a plus
• Exceptional oral and written communication skills and the ability to effectively communicate workflow and project updates. 
• Strong time management, prioritization, problem-solving, and organizational skills and the ability to work effectively in a high-pressure environment.
•  Excellent organizational skills with meticulous attention to accuracy and detail.
• Some knowledge of legal terminology, rules, regulations, and procedures surrounding intellectual property.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively with difference levels of constituencies.
• Flexibility and capacity to respond calmly, efficiently, and effectively in stressful situations.
• Punctual and reliable and able to meet set deadlines and work effectively under pressure.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of matters and other firm business information.

Location: Boston, MA or New York, NY 

The expected salary range for this position is $70,000 - $95,000 annually.  Actual pay will be determined based on experience and other job-related factors permitted by law. Wolf Greenfield offers a comprehensive benefits package.