Technology Transactions – Life Sciences Transactions + Licensing Associate Attorney

About the role

MoFo is a destination law firm for talented, ambitious attorneys who value collaboration, teamwork, and commitment to excellence. Known worldwide for delivering innovative yet practical client service and serving as an incubator for top‑notch talent, MoFo receives top‑tier rankings for legal capabilities, inclusivity, and community commitment. As part of MoFo’s preeminent Technology Transactions Group, the Life Sciences Transactions + Licensing team advises clients at every stage of product and company lifecycle – from discovery and development through commercialization and exit – representing biotechnology, pharmaceutical, medical device, diagnostic, agricultural and plant biotechnology, food, beverage, consumer packaged goods, research institutions, investors, and digital health companies.

Responsibilities

• License agreements
• Collaboration, research, and development agreements
• University and research institution licensing transactions
• Patent licensing and commercialization agreements and strategies
• Plant trait, germplasm, and agricultural technology licensing and development agreements
• Distribution, supply, commercialization, and manufacturing transactions
• Clinical trial arrangements including contract research, development, and manufacturing transactions
• Intellectual property management and audits
• Risk mitigation strategy in connection with licensing intellectual property
• Supporting corporate transactions (e.g., venture financings, M&A, joint ventures) by conducting IP and commercial contract due diligence, and preparing and reviewing key transaction documents
• Interfacing with clients, in‑house counsel, and counterparties in a fast‑paced, deal‑driven environment
• Collaborating across practice areas (e.g. corporate, IP, regulatory, litigation) on multidisciplinary matters

Requirements

• J.D. from an accredited law school and licensed to practice in California
• 3‑6 years of relevant experience at a top law firm or in‑house legal department, with a strong preference for candidates who have worked extensively in the life sciences
• Experience with the legal, regulatory, and business issues unique to the life sciences sector
• Experience with, or a strong interest in, transactions in agriculture (including plant biotechnology) and food (including CPG) is a plus
• Superior drafting, analytical, negotiation, and communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple matters and clients simultaneously with a high level of responsiveness and attention to detail
• Undergraduate or advanced degree in the biological sciences, chemistry, pharmacy, business, or similar areas is preferred but not required

Benefits

• A variety of options for medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverage to meet the needs of you and your family
• Industry‑leading parental leave and family benefits including adoption and fertility treatment options, backup child and elder care, and more
• Tax‑free health accounts: HSA and FSA
• 401(k) or Roth 401(k) plans
• Global wellness program, including free access to health care advocates, Employee Assistance Program, Talkspace, and Calm apps
• Flex Time Away and reduced schedule arrangements
• Paid annual fees for primary state bar registration, and up to two professional associations (additional bar memberships may be approved on a case‑by‑case basis)
• Dedicated in‑house pro bono counsel to assist with identifying pro bono organizations and matters to work with
• Matching gift programs for law school and charitable organization donations

Pay

San Diego, CA annual salary range: $260,000 to $365,000