Patent Paralegal Assistant

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Patent Paralegal Assistant is responsible for providing support to paralegals and legal professionals. This role will assist in the preparation and maintenance of all types of U.S. and foreign patent dockets, as well as assist in the general overflow of projects as assigned by the patent prosecution team.

SPECIFIC JOB DUTIES:

• Learn and execute formalities requirements of major foreign patent offices; review foreign associate emails for formalities requests; send formal documents to client for execution and follow-up; order certified copies of priority documents; prepare formal documents for legalization; and review, forward, and track progress of all documents from intake through confirmation by foreign associate within the specified deadlines.

• Prepare and review correspondence from foreign associates and to clients regarding new applications, formal requirements, filing details, etc.
• Assist with e-filing documents with the USPTO.
• Assist in preparing Information Disclosure Statements by locating and uploading references to Intellectual Property Document Assembly System (IPDAS) and the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

• Analyze, organize, and manage polynucleotide and amino acid sequence information.
• Prepare sequence listings and facilitate responses to sequence listing requests received from various sources. 
• Open, sort, and send courier packages.
• Submit expense reports, check requests, and invoices.
• Provide support for projects requiring filing, copying, mass printing, labeling, scanning, etc.
• Provide general support to the patent prosecution paralegal team as needed, including but not limited to: docket management, data collection, reporting and special projects.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, or an equivalent biological science is preferred
• Patent Prosecution experience or training within a law firm setting preferred
• Experience with electronic research tools and patent prosecution filing systems
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint)
• Ability to maintain a high level of accuracy, superior attention to detail, and strong organizational skills
• Ability to facilitate clear and concise communication with others in a positive manner
• Ability to work with others effectively in a team that encourages diversity of thought and innovation
• Ability to maintain a professional demeanor, exhibit sound judgment, maintain confidentiality, and use discretion
• Ability to exhibit problem-solving skills and demonstrate initiative and accountability
• Ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast paced environment with fluidity amidst multiple projects, shifting priorities, and competing deadlines
• Ability to adapt and accept changes in job responsibilities based on the strategic goals of the firm
• Flexibility to adjust hours as necessary in order to satisfy the essential functions of the position

Marshall Gerstein is committed to diversity, equity & inclusion and to the recruitment, retention, and advancement of the most talented and qualified professionals. We recognize that diversity at all levels of our firm, and the collective strength of our differences, enables us to better serve our clients, create enduring relationships, provide a platform for continued success, and improve both the vibrancy and innovation of our working environment.

Marshall, Gerstein & Borun LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We adhere to an employment policy that prohibits discriminatory practices or harassment against applicants or employees based on any legally impermissible factor including, but not necessarily limited to, race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, alienage or citizenship status, marital or familial status, domestic partnership status, caregiver status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, change of sex or transgender status, genetic information, medical condition, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, physical or mental disability (where the applicant or employee is qualified to perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation), any protected military or veteran status, or status as a victim of domestic or dating violence, sexual assault or offense, or stalking.