Gibbons is recruiting for a lateral patent associate position and we are hoping that the NJWLA and other specialty bar associations may be able to help us publicize the position to the widest possible audience. 

The job description is below, and I’ve copied my partner Kate Janukowicz, who Gibbons’ Hiring Partner. 

Would it be possible to share the opening with the Board and/or the broader NJWLA membership?  Candidates can apply via Gibbons’ Career site:  Lateral Attorney Openings | Gibbons P.C. (gibbonslaw.com)

Intellectual Property (Patent) Associate

Essential Functions:

1. Draft, prosecute and manage US and foreign patent portfolios related to small molecules and biologicals. 
2. Provide strategic counseling on all aspects of patent law, e.g., portfolio exclusivity positions and drafting freedom to operate and patent invalidity and non-infringement opinions.
3. Participate in and support patent litigations concerning small molecule and biologics (including ANDA litigations)
4. Work closely with clients to identify and protect new intellectual property, and counsel and educate client’s scientists and product development/business development teams on intellectual property matters.   

Minimum Education, Experience, Knowledge and Skills Required:

1. US attorney with minimum of 4 years of patent experience in the pharmaceutical/biotech/life science field. 
2. Registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
3. Advanced degrees in chemistry, biology, immunology, biochemistry or substantial R&D experience are preferred.  However, a bachelor’s degree with additional experience as a practicing patent attorney would be considered.
4. Experience as in-house lawyer in small molecule chemistry is considered a plus.
5. Ability to work both independently and in a team environment.  This is an extremely interactive role that requires excellent communication skills, the ability to address complex IP issues, and succinctly identify and communicate decisions to a team.
6. Demonstrated experience in drafting and prosecuting pharmaceutical patent applications globally, as well as conducting freedom to operate and patent invalidity and non-infringement analyses.
7. Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail and ability to handle and prioritize multiple time-sensitive projects.
8. Strong written and verbal communication skills and demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with minimal supervision.
9. Ability to distill complexity and to communicate decisively with sound judgment.