Chemistry & Life Sciences Associate

Location: Washington, DC

Salary: $225K – $285K

Job Description

We are representing a top-tier law firm that is seeking a highly qualified Associate to join its innovative and rapidly growing Chemistry & Life Sciences team in Washington, D.C. This is an exceptional opportunity for attorneys with a strong technical background in computational biology, bioinformatics, artificial intelligence, or related disciplines, and a passion for patent law.

The successful candidate will work closely with leading scientists and innovators across a range of cutting-edge technologies at the intersection of biology and software. The role involves drafting and prosecuting patent applications, counseling on patent strategy, and participating in proceedings before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and prosecute patent applications in technologies such as digital pathology, AI/ML in biology, sequencing, therapeutic development, and clinical systems
• Conduct patentability, freedom-to-operate, and validity analyses
• Participate in examiner interviews and appeals
• Communicate with scientists, in-house legal teams, and outside counsel on patent strategy
• Instruct foreign counsel on related international filings

Qualifications

• JD and a degree in computational biology, AI, bioinformatics, applied mathematics, or a closely related field
• Admission to at least one U.S. state bar and eligibility for USPTO registration
• Strong communication skills and technical fluency in biology/software cross-disciplinary innovations
• Detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple matters in a fast-paced environment

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary: $225,000–$285,000 annually
• Bonus eligibility and comprehensive benefits package
• Supportive, collaborative culture with training and mentoring
• Flexible hybrid work schedule available

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