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Assistant Patent Search Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Patent Search information

What is an assistant patent search?

An Assistant Patent Search is a professional who assists patent attorneys or agents by researching and identifying existing patents, published patent applications, and relevant prior art that could affect the patentability of an invention. They use specialized databases and resources to perform comprehensive searches, analyze findings, and prepare reports that help guide the patent application process. Their work is essential in ensuring that new inventions are novel and do not infringe on existing patents.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant patent search?

To thrive as an Assistant Patent Searcher, you need a solid understanding of intellectual property concepts, technical or scientific knowledge relevant to patent domains, and strong research skills, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with patent databases (such as USPTO, EPO, and WIPO), search engines, and specialized patent search tools is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective written communication are important soft skills for interpreting technical documents and reporting findings. These skills ensure thorough, accurate patent searches that support strong IP protection and informed decision-making.

What are some common challenges faced by assistant patent search professionals, and how can they effectively overcome them?

Assistant Patent Search professionals often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex technical documents, distinguishing between similar prior art, and managing tight deadlines. To overcome these obstacles, it's important to develop strong research and analytical skills, maintain organized records, and stay updated on patent classification systems. Collaborating closely with patent attorneys and inventors also helps clarify technical details and ensures accurate, efficient searches.

What is the difference between Assistant Patent Search vs Patent Paralegal?

AspectAssistant Patent SearchPatent Paralegal
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree, often in science or engineeringUsually requires a paralegal certification or associate degree in paralegal studies
Work EnvironmentResearch-focused, often in patent firms or corporate IP departmentsLegal setting, supporting attorneys with patent filings and legal documentation
ResponsibilitiesConduct patent searches, gather prior art, assist in patentability assessmentsPrepare legal documents, manage patent application processes, assist with legal research

While both roles support patent processes, Assistant Patent Search primarily focuses on conducting patent searches and prior art research, whereas Patent Paralegals handle legal documentation and administrative tasks related to patent filings. The roles often overlap in industry and environment but differ in specific responsibilities and required credentials.

What are the most commonly searched types of Patent Search jobs in Oregon?

The most popular types of Patent Search jobs in Oregon are:

$68K - $113K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

168th of 627 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department Overview
The School of Dentistry shares the mission of the Oregon Health & Science University to provide educational programs, basic and clinical research, and high quality care and community programs. We strive to foster an environment of mutual respect where the free exchange of ideas can flourish. The dental school prepares graduates in general dentistry and the dental specialties to deliver compassionate and ethical oro-facial health care.
Function/Duties of Position
The Pfeifer lab is a collaborative Research group within the School of Dentistry, Department of Biomaterial and Biomedical Sciences. The lab was established in 2011 and has been continuously supported by the NIH-National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, and others. We have a strong track record in the fields of Biomaterials and Polymer Chemistry, with over 150 publications and several full patents. Our focus is to develop materials solutions for use in healthcare applications (including oral) with a heavy emphasis at the interface with microbiology and host tissue interactions. We have been able to be successful in this quest thanks to a multi-disciplinary team of highly collaborative individuals, including materials scientists, clinicians, engineers, chemists and microbiologists. The work we do spans traditional materials science and cell biology. We'd love for you to join us!
Dr. Carmem Pfeifer seeks an Assistant Staff Scientist with extensive knowledge of microbiology and materials science related methods to drive research projects to academic and translational goals. This person will contribute to scientific direction of numerous projects and share the management responsibilities for lab members working on those projects. Technical expertise in the area molecular biology and molecular design, as well as collaborative research approach are key to success in this role.
Required Qualifications
  • PhD in relevant field (Bioengineering, Biology, Biomaterials, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science)
  • Doctoral degree in Biomedical Sciences or related fields and a minimum of 3 years of post-doctoral work experience in a research lab with a focus on material-tissue/biofilm interactions
  • Intimate knowledge of molecular biology and microbiology assays
  • Knowledge of how to operate various instrumentation and basic engineering principles for applications and troubleshooting with instrumentation (including at least a few of the following: Mechanical testing: universal testing machine (flexural strength, fracture toughness, dynamic mechanical analysis, rheology); Spectroscopic techniques (IR and UV-Vis, mass spec, GPC, HPLC); Imaging (SEM and confocal microscopy)
  • Ability to optimize and adapt existing molecular biology protocols for analysis of modified material surfaces
  • Familiarity with spatial analysis approaches such as spatial transcriptomics, especially for engineered tissues or on-chip systems
  • Familiarity with technical writing, including research manuscripts, methods manuscripts, patents, and other IP documentation
  • Ability to lead discussions around research projects and proactively communicate with research team members for the success of the project
  • Ability to prioritize multiple tasks at one time
  • Excellent communication, analytical, and organizational skills: both written and verbal
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team while being collaborative in resolving problems
  • Intermediate skills with Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, Access, Word, and PowerPoint) on Window OS, and other advanced graphing and image design software (Prism, Origin, Photoshop, Adobe illustrator)
  • Ability to use empathy and diplomacy to support trainees and other lab members

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with molecular biology techniques, in silico docking, molecular simulations, microbiology, materials science
  • High-quality peer-reviewed publications
  • Grant writing experience
  • Small molecule synthesis
  • Peptide synthesis
  • MATLAB
  • Additive manufacturing
  • Workshop experience

Why apply to OHSU?
We are Oregon's only public academic health center.
In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington.
All are welcome.
OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply.
To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.edu

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About Oregon Health & Science University

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Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887