About Us: Stanford University is at the forefront of innovation in the life sciences sector. The Office of Technology Licensing (OTL) works collaboratively with faculty to protect and commercialize technologies developed by our researchers. Join our dynamic team and contribute to the advancement of cutting-edge discoveries in life sciences.
Position Overview: We are seeking a highly motivated Part-Time Patent Agent or Patent Attorney to support OTL’s management of inventions in the life sciences domain. In this role, you will assist our licensing team in evaluating new inventions, formulating patent strategy, and oversight of outside counsel.
This job has flexible hours and offers the opportunity to engage with top scientists conducting cutting edge research.
Please note that this is a part-time, non-benefited job posting and we are looking for candidates who are comfortable with this arrangement.
Qualifications:
- Technical Expertise: A PhD in biology, biomedical sciences, or a related discipline is strongly preferred. A Master’s degree in a relevant field combined with substantial research or industry experience may also be considered. Degrees in biology, biochemistry, immunology, genetics, or related areas, together with relevant professional experience, can also provide a strong foundation for this role.
- Candidates must be able to analyze a broad range of innovative biological research developments and engage in high-level scientific discussions with leading academic researchers. Demonstrated fluency in the life sciences and their medical applications is essential, as this role requires regular interaction with experts in areas such as immunology, cell biology, cell therapy, molecular biology, and bioengineering.
- Patent Experience: Five or more years of experience in patent prosecution is preferred. Registration as a patent agent or patent attorney with the USPTO is strongly preferred. Experience in in-house technology management, particularly within academic or government institutions, is preferred.
Candidates should have demonstrated experience working with inventors, evaluating the patentability of new inventions, and reviewing and editing patent applications. While drafting patent applications is not a primary responsibility of this role, candidates should have experience contributing to or preparing effective patent documents.
Responsibilities:
- Evaluate invention disclosures and conduct patentability assessments.
- Collaborate with licensing managers, inventors, outside patent counsel, and external partners to develop patent strategy for new inventions.
- Work closely with external IP attorneys to direct patent prosecution and review work products such as draft patent applications and responses to Office Actions.
- Conduct prior art searches, review International Search Reports and office actions, and analyze patent landscapes.
- Assist in patent portfolio management and maintenance.
- Assist in managing IP costs and budgets.
- Stay updated on relevant laws, regulations, and industry trends, and provide guidance and education for the Stanford community regarding intellectual property matters.
- Other projects or duties may be requested or required.
Note on Conflict Management: In this position, you will be working as a patent advisor and will not be representing the institution. To avoid conflicts, we prefer candidates that are not actively representing 3rd parties. However, we will consider candidates that have effective and established conflict management practices in place that align with Stanford University's practice.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $57.02 - $96.78 per hour
Benefits:
Experience:
- legal: 5 years (Preferred)
Work Location: Remote
