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Form of workWho are we?
Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox P.L.L.C. is proud to be one of the most highly regarded intellectual property specialty law firms in the world. We are the only DC law firm ranked as Chambers “Band 1” for patent prosecution and we are a Vault “Best Midsize Firm to Work For.” While our awards speak for themselves, we know our culture is what sets us apart in the industry. We recognize that it is the talent and dynamism of each individual that contributes to our shared success. We have cultivated an environment that is welcoming, inclusive, and intellectually stimulating with just the right touch of fun and exuberance.
What do we offer?
As an Associate in our Biotechnology & Chemical Group, you will work with world-class inventors and innovators across a wide variety of industries. You will learn from mentors here who are leaders and trailblazers in their fields. As an Associate, you will be supported by two formal advisors and you have the opportunity to request an advisor change every year. The Biotechnology & Chemical group specifically supports incoming and new members by assembling a core technical team to ensure you have an appropriately tailored docket starting on your first day.
On a case-by-case basis, we can approve Associates in the Biotechnology & Chemical Group for a full-time remote work arrangement from a US location outside of the DC metro area. We would prefer Associates who join the firm to be willing to work a flexible hybrid schedule with some regular office presence in our new downtown Washington, DC space.
The good faith base salary range for this position is $250,000 to $325,000 at a 2000 billable hour goal or $215,000 to $270,000 at a 1900 hour billable goal. The actual salary rate offered to candidates will depend on a variety of factors, including without limitation, years of relevant experience, education, and the candidate’s overall qualifications for the position as assessed by the firm.
The firm has a flexible hours program under which an Associate can select a lower billable hour goal with a commensurate salary. Under the flexible hours program, you may select a billable hour goal in the range of 1400 to 1900 hours. Associates at our firm primarily doing patent or trademark prosecution tend to select hour goals less than 2000 hours, while attorneys primarily doing litigation and/or inter partes work are more likely to select hour goals of 2000 hours.
How will you make an impact?
- Conducting patent searches and analysis
- Reviewing and understanding advances in technology
- Preparing and filing patent applications with the USPTO and internationally
- Contributing to the crafting and managing of IP and patent portfolios for our clients
What will you bring to the role?
- JD and actively licensed as an attorney in a U.S. jurisdiction. Must be eligible to waive into the D.C. Bar or be willing and eligible to sit for the D.C. bar exam.
- Masters or PhD preferred in biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, chemistry, organic chemistry, molecular genetics, human genetics, chemical engineering, immunology, or related scientific discipline
- 3-5 years practicing patent prosecution at another law firm
- USPTO registration number preferred
- A strong foundation in IP and patent law
- Previous wet lab experience preferred
- The ability to communicate legal concepts clearly and concisely
- Stellar academic credentials
Sterne Kessler is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
