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Patent Agent (Molecular Biology)

Dlapiper
San Diego, CA; Palo Alto, CA; Washington, DC; Philadelphia, PA +1 more Posted Oct 14, 2026
Full-time

About this role

Patent Agent (Molecular Biology)

DLA Piper is, at its core, bold, exceptional, collaborative and supportive. Our people are the backbone, heart and soul of our firm. Wherever you are in your professional journey, DLA Piper is a place you can engage in meaningful work and grow your career. Let’s see what we can achieve. Together.

Summary

DLA Piper is seeking a Patent Agent with 3-5 years of experience to join its Patent Development and Strategy Group for our Boston, Philadelphia, DC, San Diego or Palo Alto office. The ideal candidate will have experience preparing and prosecuting patent applications. In particular, the candidate must have experience and degree in molecular biology or related subject area. Candidates who have litigation, opinion, licensing, patent due diligence, and/or patent prosecution experience are preferred. All candidates must be registered with the USPTO.

Education

  • 4 Year / Bachelor's Degree

  • Degree in a technical or scientific field

  • Preferred Education

  • Master's Degree

Job Requirements

  • 3-5 years of experience preparing and prosecuting patent applications
  • A degree in molecular biology or related scientific discipline
  • Registration with the USPTO

Responsibilities

  • Drafts patent applications.

  • Drafts responses to USPTO office actions.

  • Works closely with attorneys for patent preparation and prosecution.

  • Drafts instructions to foreign patent agents in response to office actions.

  • Maintains a detailed understanding of products and technical developments.

  • Conducts patentability studies and drafts related assessments.

  • Provides technical support for opinions, diligence projects and litigation.

  • Other duties as assigned.

  • Skills and Competencies Must have excellent communication and research skills. Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment. Strong attention to detail as well as excellent analytical skills. Must be able to understand and resolve complex issues and situations.

  • Essential Job Expectations

All DLA Piper employees are expected to demonstrate excellence in how we serve our clients and develop our people, upholding our firm values as part of our culture. Specific expectations include:

  • Communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with clients, lawyers, business professionals, and external audiences.

  • Produce high-quality work and respond to correspondence in an efficient, timely, and professional manner.

  • Meet deadlines, manage competing priorities, and commit to meeting high standards.

  • Comply with firm policies and procedures.

  • Maintain confidences as required in a law firm environment.

  • Physical Demands Sedentary work: This is primarily sedentary work, requiring occasional exertion of up to 10 pounds of force to lift, carry, push, pull, or move objects. The role involves sitting for extended periods, with occasional walking and standing, and occasional travel, both domestic and international.

  • Work Environment-The firm's work location requirements may be modified at the firm's discretion

  • Opportunity for a hybrid work arrangement combining remote and in-office work. The specific arrangement will be determined at the time of hiring and may be modified at the firm's discretion.

  • Remote / Work-from-home

  • Disclaimer

  • Talent limitations and other notes about the job responsibilities apply.

  • Pay Transparency

  • The firm’s expected hiring range for this position is $120,000 - $225,000 per year depending on the candidate’s geographic market location. The compensation offered for employment will also be dependent on other factors including the candidate’s experience, skills, educational and professional background, and overall qualifications. We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including medical/dental/vision insurance, and 401(k).

  • LI-Hybrid

  • LI-AH1

  • DLA Piper is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

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