Patent Agent Biochemistry and Biotechnology Focused

$95,500 - $171,900/Yr

National Renewable Energy Laboratory - Golden, CO

Full-time - Mid Level

Golden, CO

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

The Patent Agent at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) will be responsible for managing a substantial patent docket, focusing on biotechnology and biochemistry innovations. This role involves drafting and prosecuting patent applications, collaborating with research staff, and ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations. The successful candidate will work closely with the Technology Transfer Office to identify and protect patentable intellectual property, while also providing education and training on patent issues to staff.

Responsibilities

• Manage a substantial active patent docket for NREL, including domestic and foreign matters.
• Draft and prosecute patent applications in the biotechnology arts, including genetic engineering of microorganisms.
• Collaborate with NREL's Technology Transfer Office and research staff to identify and evaluate patentable intellectual property.
• Review Records of Invention (ROIs) for patentability and perform prior art searches and analyses.
• Prepare and prosecute patent applications predominantly in-house, including responding to office actions from the USPTO.
• Work with and manage outside counsel as necessary for patent prosecution.
• Provide ongoing education and training sessions on patent issues to research staff and management.
• Support partnership formation and out-licensing of patents through patent due diligence and technical insights.
• Review publications, presentations, and reports for potential patentability issues before dissemination.

Requirements

• Relevant Bachelor's Degree and 5 or more years of experience, or relevant Master's Degree and 3 or more years of experience, or relevant PhD or JD with equivalent experience.
• Complete understanding and wide application of technical principles in the field of biochemistry or biotechnology.
• General knowledge of related disciplines and considerable knowledge of laws and regulations related to patent law.
• Strong leadership, project management, and problem-solving skills.
• Registered to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office as a patent agent or attorney.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience drafting and prosecuting patent applications in chemistry or material science.
• Advanced degree in biochemistry, biochemical engineering, or molecular biology.
• Experience working in a biology and/or chemistry laboratory.

Benefits

• 403(b) matching
• AD&D insurance
• Paid holidays
• Disability insurance
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Tuition reimbursement
• Paid time off