Join the World's Top Legal Talent Network

JOB SUMMARY:

The Patent Scientist, Medicinal Chemistry will efficiently review patent and non-patent literature for key concepts. Prior experience working with an IP team responding to Patent Office actions is preferred, ideally with pharmaceuticals, synthetic methods, molecular biology and drug discovery. The right individual will have strong academic credentials with a superb organic chemistry-related background and can draft high-quality patent applications and respond to office actions. The ideal candidate will have excellent written and verbal communication and organizational skills as well as the ability to grasp new technical teachings quickly. This position will work directly with the Drug Discovery team and the SVP of Intellectual Property to prepare patent filings and assist as appropriate in the management of Intellectual Property.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Interact with Discovery and CMC group inventors to learn about new ideas to be patented.
• Prepare patent applications, which includes drafting technical descriptions and drawings describing the inventions.
• Analyze all spectral data for drafted compounds to verify its structural accuracy.
• Review prep sheets submitted by chemists and updating database.
• Identify and assess inventions that have the potential for new product development.
• Research and analyze literature search reports in order to assist in potential patentability, freedom to practice/operate and prior art analysis for new inventions.
• Assume significant responsibilities, communicate with various levels of management and staff and, at times, require a significant degree of autonomy.
• Research and analyze third-party rights.
• Assist in the evaluation of competitors' patents to create new ways to position and develop company’s products in the market without violating other company’s rights.
• Participate in weekly departmental drug discovery team meeting to plan to prepare a draft for a potential future new invention.
• All other duties as assigned.

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS:

• PhD degree in organic or medicinal chemistry having superior academic credentials with 2-5 years of experience (or an equivalent combination of education and experience) in the same field of science, preferably in a Biotech industry setting.
• Prior legal experience is not mandatory, but registration with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (if not already established) is advantageous.
• Ability to situate an idea or concept in a broader context enabling company to be more competitive and to secure research developments over many years to come.
• Rapid learning, good communication skills, and the ability to break down complex legal and technical issues into simpler forms.
• Outstanding writing ability is required.
• Experience in using scientific software (ChemDraw, MestReNova) and search engines (SciFinder)
• The ideal candidate will have experience in assisting the IP team in responding to Patent Office actions.

The statements in this position description are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. The manager may assign additional responsibilities and assignments from time to time.

BioCryst is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities without regard to age, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, Veterans status, disability and/or other protected class characteristics. Additionally, BioCryst is committed to achieving its business objectives in compliance with all federal, state and local law.