Lateral Associate Life Sciences Chemistry

Position Overview: McDonnell Boehnen Hulbert & Berghoff LLP (MBHB) is currently accepting applications for an Associate Attorney with a chemistry background to join our Life Science Practice Group. This is a mid-level position ideally suited for an attorney with 3-5 years of patent prosecution experience, looking to further develop their legal career in a dynamic and innovative environment. MBHB offers a collaborative environment with significant opportunities for growth. The firm values technical expertise and legal acumen, and we?re seeking someone who is not only ambitious and adaptable but also eager to take on leadership responsibilities as part of our pipeline planning. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who wants to build relationships, contribute to client success, and take their legal career to the next level in a thriving practice. Key Responsibilities: Patent Prosecution: Manage patent prosecution for a diverse range of clients, including Fortune 100 companies, startups, and academic institutions. Prepare, file, and prosecute patent applications while ensuring high-quality, timely deliverables. Client & Inventor Collaboration: Attend invention disclosure meetings with clients to understand their technologies and provide technical insights that inform patent strategies. Maintain strong, professional relationships with clients, effectively communicating complex technical concepts to both legal and non-legal audiences while representing the firm's firm?s technical expertise and providing clear, strategic advice. Legal Work: Demonstrate the ability to perform work independently with minimal oversight. Contribute to the firm?s business development efforts by identifying opportunities for clients and the firm?s growth. Budget & Time Management: Manage client budgets, ensuring efficient use of resources and maintaining project timelines. Demonstrate excellent time management skills and responsiveness in all client interactions. Team Development & Mentorship: Provide mentorship and guidance to junior associates and other team members. Assist in building a collaborative, growth-oriented team culture and support pipeline planning efforts within the firm. Continuous Professional Development: Stay abreast of industry developments, scientific advancements, and legal trends in patent law. Exhibit an eagerness to continue learning and growing both in your technical and legal expertise. Job Requirements: Qualifications: Education: PhD (or equivalent advanced degree) in chemistry, biochemistry, or a related life sciences field. A Master's Master?s degree with substantial industry or research experience may also be considered. Experience: 3-5 years of patent prosecution experience in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or chemical sectors. Experience working with academic institutions, startups, and mid-sized companies in the biotech or pharma space. [Note Licensed to practice law in Illinois (or licensed in another state and qualified to sit for the Illinois Bar Exam). Admission to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is required. Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex scientific concepts clearly and concisely in both legal and technical contexts. Strong legal analysis and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think creatively and strategically in patent prosecution. Ability to manage multiple clients and cases effectively while maintaining strong client relationships. Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage time and meet deadlines efficiently. Ambition and adaptability, with a desire to contribute to the growth of the firm and advance in leadership. A proactive attitude toward taking on new job link; job reposted]challenges, providing constructive feedback, and supporting junior team members. The anticipated initial annual salary range for someone who is hired into this position is : $200,000 - $250,000 Benefits: Please visit our website to learn more about benefits provided https://www.mbhb.com/culture-and-development/ MBHB is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity or expression, or any other protected group status under the law. MBHB is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer in accordance with regulations adopted by the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities.

Practice Areas & Specialty

Intellectual Property, Life Sciences, Patent Prosecution