Senior Patent Agent

This is a position to lead Exelixis' IP function to support our internal and collaboration research programs in small molecule therapeutics. Provides advice and service on patent/intellectual property matters including patentability of inventions, etc. Coordinates with outside counsel in the preparation, filing, and prosecution of patent applications to obtain broadest possible protection for company's inventions. Ensures all commercially important inventions are protected by valid patents and do not infringe valid third-party patents. May handle appeal and opposition proceedings. May assist in negotiation and drafting of material transfer agreements, research agreements, patent licenses and other agreements. Conducts and evaluates state-of-the-art searches. Assists in training scientists in electronic notebook maintenance and invention disclosure procedures. May attend internal scientific meetings and meet with scientists for periodic updates. May also help paralegal staff to maintain the company's database of publications, patents and patent applications. Typically, has passed the U.S. Patent Office and Trademark Office examination for registration to practice. A law degree is required.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Coordinates with outside counsel on preparation and prosecution of patent applications related to the company's small molecule chemistry portfolio (both in-licensed and through internal research activities) and works with scientists to obtain necessary information and data.

• Conducts "freedom to operate" and patentability searches using patent and scientific literature and databases.

• Assists patent counsel in preparation of freedom to operate and patentability opinions.

• Complies with company health and safety policies and procedures.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

None

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILLS:

Education:

• JD or admission to practice before the US Patent and Trademark Office, MS/MA degree in synthetic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, or related discipline and 11 years of related experience; or,

• JD or admission to practice before the US Patent and Trademark Office, PhD degree in chemistry, medicinal chemistry, or related discipline and 8 years of related experience; or

• Equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Advanced degree in chemistry, medicinal chemistry or related discipline required.

• Admission to practice before the US Patent and Trademark Office required.

• Experience:

• Typically requires a minimum of seven to eight years of related experience and/or combination of experience and education/training.

• Experience in Biotech/Pharmaceutical industry or in a law firm prosecuting patents is required.

• Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Has extensive experience in relevant industry/profession and area of specialization.

• Uses professional concepts and company objectives to resolve complex issues in creative and effective ways.

• Identifies and implements methods and procedures to achieve results.

• Leads or manages the work of others by providing guidance to subordinates or teams based on organizational goals and company policy, with responsibility for results, including costs, methods and staffing.

• Performs a variety of complicated tasks with a wide degree of creativity and latitude.

• Has complete understanding and wide application of technical principles, theories, concepts and techniques.

• Has good general knowledge of other related disciplines.

• Applies strong analytical and business communication skills.

JOB COMPLEXITY:

• Works on complex problems where analysis of situations or data requires an in-depth evaluation of various factors.

• Exercises judgment within broadly defined practices and policies in selecting methods, techniques and evaluation of criteria for obtaining results.

• Uses professional concepts and company's policies and procedures to solve a wide range of difficult problems in imaginative and practical ways.

• Networks with key contacts outside own area of expertise.

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If you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you'll enjoy your career with us!

DISCLAIMER
The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.