Ph.D. Biotech Patent Prosecution Attorney / Patent Agent (Hybrid)

Latitude is seeking a Ph.D.-level Biotech Patent Prosecution Attorney or Patent Agent for a permanent placement opportunity with a well-established and growing Southern California intellectual property boutique. This role is ideal for a lawyer or patent agent with a strong life sciences background who wants to build a sophisticated biotechnology patent prosecution practice while working directly with innovative biotechnology companies, research institutions, and emerging life sciences clients.

About the role

The successful candidate will support cutting-edge technologies spanning therapeutics, diagnostics, molecular biology, genetics, immunology, and related biotechnology platforms. This role offers meaningful responsibility, direct client interaction, hands-on mentorship from experienced practitioners, and the opportunity to play an integral role in the continued growth of an expanding biotechnology practice. The position is hybrid, with attorneys and patent agents working from either the firm’s Long Beach or San Diego office.

Requirements

• 3+ years of biotechnology patent prosecution experience, preferably representing biotechnology, pharmaceutical, medical device, or other life sciences clients
• Ph.D. in Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Immunology, or another closely related life sciences discipline
• J.D. from an ABA-accredited law school (for attorney candidates) or eligibility to practice as a registered Patent Agent
• Registered to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), or ability to obtain registration promptly
• Strong scientific aptitude with the ability to analyze and communicate complex biological concepts
• Experience drafting and prosecuting U.S. and international patent applications
• Excellent analytical, written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• Outstanding attention to detail and organizational abilities
• Outstanding professional references

Responsibilities

• Draft and prosecute U.S. and international patent applications involving sophisticated biotechnology and life sciences innovations
• Analyze invention disclosures, scientific research, experimental data, and technical publications
• Prepare responses to USPTO Office Actions and participate in examiner interviews
• Conduct prior art searches and patentability analyses
• Prepare claim charts and assist with freedom-to-operate analyses and intellectual property due diligence
• Collaborate directly with inventors, scientists, research teams, and clients
• Develop practical patent strategies that protect valuable life sciences innovations

Benefits

• 100% employer-paid medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off
• CLE support and additional professional development resources
• Competitive compensation with guaranteed performance-based bonuses

Pay

The salary range for this position is $135,000 to $180,000+, depending upon experience, qualifications, scientific background, and overall fit. Pay is based on multiple factors including, but not limited to, work experience, qualifications, credentials, technical expertise, and location.

Schedule

Full-Time, hybrid (Long Beach or San Diego, California).