Senior Patent Agent

About The Job Sr Patent Agent supports Foundation Medicine’s global patent portfolio across molecular diagnostics, multiomic profiling, bioinformatics, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and software-enabled healthcare technologies. As part of Foundation Medicine’s IP team, you will help protect innovations that advance precision oncology and expand access to genomic insights for patients with cancer. This position offers the opportunity to build deep patent prosecution experience with mentorship from experienced IP attorneys and exposure to a global life sciences patent portfolio. As part of this experience, you will be exposed to technology that is changing patient’s lives and fulfilling. This role works closely with inventors, attorneys, scientists, software engineers, and business stakeholders to identify inventions, draft and prosecute patent applications, and support strategic intellectual property initiatives. We are looking for someone who is curious, collaborative, detail-oriented, and excited to work on technology that is advancing patient care. A successful candidate combines strong technical expertise in biotechnology and computational technologies with excellent written communication skills and a business-oriented approach to intellectual property protection. This candidate will demonstrate developing subject matter expertise, sound judgment, strong collaboration, technical understanding of FMI’s products and services, and an ability to work effectively across the organization. Key Responsibilities Draft and prosecute U.S. and foreign patent applicationsConduct invention disclosure interviews and assess patentabilityPrepare responses to Office ActionsSupport freedom-to-operate, landscape, and validity analysisReview scientific publications, conference abstracts, software documentation, and product materialsCollaborate with R&D, engineering, bioinformatics, product, and business development teamsAssist with IP due diligence, licensing, and strategic transactionsCoordinate with outside counsel and foreign associatesSupport patent litigation and post-grant proceedings as neededDeliver IP training and educational programs to business teamsDemonstrate understanding of biotechnology, diagnostics, software, and AI-related intellectual property issuesPartner effectively with senior legal team members when appropriateIdentify patent related risksTranslate highly technical concepts into strong patent applicationsBuild trusted relationships with inventors and business stakeholdersSupport management of a global patent docket with appropriate guidance and oversightDeliver high-quality work product under competing deadlinesContribute strategic thinking to portfolio development and competitive positioningModel FMI values in day-to-day work and collaborationComply with FMI's attendance policies Qualifications Basic Qualifications: B.S. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Genomics, Cell Biology, Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related discipline; or an equivalent combination of biotechnology and software experience5+ years of patent prosecution and portfolio management experienceRegistered to practice before the USPTO Preferred Qualifications Ph.D. or M.S. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Genomics, Cell Biology, Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related discipline; or an equivalent combination of biotechnology and software experienceExperience drafting and prosecuting patent applications with limited supervisionExperience with AI/ML systems, bioinformatics pipelines, software platforms, cloud computing, or healthcare softwareExperience assessing issue severity, identifying areas of concern, and escalating matters appropriatelyHistory of collaborative, solution-oriented teamworkStrong oral and written communication skills, including the ability to explain complex legal and scientific concepts clearly to audiences with varying levels of subject matter familiarityExceptional skills in organization, planning, and attention to detailCommitment to maintaining confidentiality of proprietary and sensitive informationUnderstanding of HIPAA and the importance of patient data privacyCommitment to reflect FMI’s values: Integrity, Courage, and Passion The expected salary range for this position based on the primary location of Boston, MA is $106,000 - $132,000 per year. The salary range is commensurate with Foundation Medicine’s compensation practice and considers factors including, but not limited to, education, training, experience, external market conditions, criticality of role, and internal equity. A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and Company performance. This position also qualifies for Foundation Medicine's benefits.