What are the responsibilities and job description for the Entry-level for PhD Grads! No IP or Legal Experience Needed! (Technical Specialist) position at Sterne Kessler?
Who are we?
Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox P.L.L.C. is proudly 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 a Technical Specialist in the Biotechnology & Chemical Group, 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 team to ensure you have an appropriately tailored docket from the start.
Technical Specialists have career growth opportunities with the firm! We encourage Technical Specialists to study and sit for the Patent Bar within your first 1.5 years with the firm and upon passing, transition into a Patent Agent position. If law school is something you’d consider, there are also opportunities to grow into an Associate position in the future.
The good faith starting base salary range for this position is $110,000 - $155,000 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.
How will you make an impact?
- Perform technical research and prepare written and oral reports to attorneys and/or patent agents
- Assist and prepare patent applications and other Patent Office filings, such as Information Disclosure Statements, replies to Notice to File Missing Parts, responses to Office Actions and Appeal Briefs for signature by attorneys and/or patent agents
- Interact with inventors to obtain disclosures
- Maintain and organize prosecution files
- Assist with prosecution of foreign patent applications by preparing letters of instruction to foreign associates for signature by attorneys and patent agents
- Maintain and monitor docket of work due dates
What will you bring to the role?
- Masters or PhD preferred in biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, chemistry, organic chemistry, molecular genetics, human genetics, chemical engineering, immunology, or related scientific discipline
- Previous wet lab experience preferred
- Stellar academic credentials
- Genuine and demonstrated interest in applying your scientific and research experience to the IP and patent law field
- An enterprising spirit to build on the comprehensive formal and informal training you will receive
Sterne Kessler is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Salary : $110,000 - $155,000