Life Sciences Patent Prosecution Associate

A growing, nationally respected life sciences patent team is seeking an associate with 1–4 years of experience to join its Intellectual Property Department in Grand Rapids. The role offers an opportunity to help sophisticated clients protect and leverage innovations at the forefront of pharmaceuticals, specialty chemicals, and ag-biotech.

Working directly with clients, inventors, and supervising attorneys, you will handle U.S. and international patent preparation and prosecution, inventor and examiner engagement, and portfolio strategy. The position also involves patentability, freedom-to-operate, validity, and non-infringement analyses, plus transactional and diligence support for financings, licensing, and M&A.

The ideal candidate has an advanced degree in organic chemistry and hands-on U.S. and foreign prosecution experience, along with an interest in the strategic side of patent practice. You will take on meaningful responsibility early, with mentorship and support to grow into a trusted client advisor.

• 1–4 years of patent preparation and prosecution experience, with substantial work in chemical, pharmaceutical, or other life sciences technologies
• J.D. from an accredited law school with strong academic credentials
• Registration to practice before the USPTO
• Advanced degree in organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, or a closely related field (Ph.D. strongly preferred; M.S. with substantial relevant experience considered)
• Excellent writing, analytical, and communication skills, with the ability to explain complex chemistry clearly
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple deadlines while producing high-quality work
• Preferred: experience with patentability, freedom-to-operate, clearance, non-infringement, or invalidity analyses or opinions
• Preferred: patent due diligence or portfolio management experience
• Preferred: familiarity with pharmaceutical life cycle management and the Hatch-Waxman/Orange Book framework
• Preferred: foreign prosecution experience, including EPO practice