Patent Attorney

Location: Gaithersburg, MD

At AstraZeneca when we see an opportunity for change, we seize it and commit real resources to make it happen, because an opportunity no matter how small, can be the start of something big. Delivering life-changing medicine is about being entrepreneurial - finding those moments and recognizing their potential. How do you spot the potential for something world-changing? With bold, empowered people and leaders who champion curiosity – and the fearlessness to pursue ideas in new ways.

Taking on a role that bridges science and legal practice, you’ll be a global business IP advisor. This will entail managing the patent portfolio for assigned projects and products and keeping up to date with emerging legal and pharma developments to help set and implement the global IP strategy in your area in collaboration with the Senior Patent Director.

Accountabilities

In this role, you will identify and manage IP risks, communicating them to IP, legal, and business teams. You'll develop strategies for filing, prosecuting, maintaining, and defending patents against third-party challenges. Engage in business development deals and coordinate responses to legal changes across regions. Managing external spend to meet budget targets will also be part of your responsibilities.

• Independently manage all aspects of build, maintenance and defense of specific patent portfolios
• Actively counsel members of Research & Development organizations to identify new inventions as well as devise and implement strategies for patent protection over extended drug development life cycle
• Create and implement global strategic approaches toward building patent portfolios and providing value to business
• Prepare and prosecute patent applications (US and ex-US) including effectively managing outside counsel as needed
• Manage all aspects of large intellectual property estates in AstraZeneca`s core and opportunistic therapeutic areas
• Evaluate and monitor patent portfolios of third parties
• Develop and communicate IP guidance to stakeholders across the business, including within R&D, Business Development, commercial, legal
• Review and analyze license agreements and other contracts
• Provide IP and technical analysis in support of patent litigations
  
  

Essential Skills/Experience

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry or Biochemistry or related scientific field, and JD
• Licensed US Attorney or Patent Agent, USPTO Registration Number
• At least 4 years relevant experience in life science patent prosecution with global portfolios
• Strong core patent prosecution skills and ability to independently manage patent dockets and portfolios
• Experience of managing external service providers
• High level of professionalism and motivation, ability to work independently
• Ability to take initiative to complete tasks and manage risks
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and projects with rapidly changing priorities
• Outstanding organizational skills and attention to detail
• Effective oral and written communication skills
• Effective time management skills
• Adaptable and versatile learner
• Ability to be an enterprise leader for the organization
  
  

Desirable Skills/Experience

• Combined in-house and law firm experience
• First-hand experience of IP-related litigation
  
  

The annual base pay for this position ranges from $174,009 to $261,014. Our positions offer eligibility for various incentives—an opportunity to receive short-term incentive bonuses, equity-based awards for salaried roles and commissions for sales roles. Benefits offered include qualified retirement programs, paid time off (i.e., vacation, holiday, and leaves), as well as health, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms of the applicable plans.

When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we unleash bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. In-person working gives us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That's why we work, on average, a minimum of three days per week from the office. But that doesn't mean we're not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility.

At AstraZeneca, you'll be part of a talented globally distributed team that powers our mission to better serve patients every day. We leverage exciting new technology and digital innovations to accelerate our evolution, strategically looking ahead to new challenges. Our entrepreneurial spirit keeps us ahead, applying creativity and taking smart risks to turn ideas into reality. With countless opportunities available, this is the place to build an unrivaled reputation while making a significant impact on patients' lives.

Ready to make a difference? Apply now and join us on this exciting journey!

Date Posted

03-Dec-2025

Closing Date

Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form.