Patent Attorney- Biologics/ Large Molecule
Gaithersburg, MD
Global Legal
Hybrid Work- on average 3 days/week in office
At AstraZeneca, we turn ideas into life-changing medicines. Working here means being entrepreneurial, thinking big and collaborating with integrity to make the impossible a reality.
We are passionate about the potential of science to address unmet patient needs around the world. We focus our efforts where we can make the greatest impact and bring innovative medicines to patients faster.
We are seeking a Patent Attorney to join our Global Intellectual Property team in supporting AstraZeneca's world-class biologics and large molecule portfolio. This is an exciting opportunity to work closely with scientists, business leaders and legal colleagues to protect innovative medicines and technologies.
What you'll do
- Identify, assess and manage intellectual property risks and opportunities across assigned research and development programmes.
- Develop and execute patent filing, prosecution, maintenance and defence strategies for a global patent portfolio.
- Provide strategic IP counselling to research, legal and business stakeholders.
- Conduct freedom-to-operate, patentability and competitive landscape assessments.
- Support business development, licensing and collaboration activities.
- Manage outside counsel and external IP service providers to ensure delivery of high-quality work and efficient use of budget.
- Partner with cross-functional teams to advance AstraZeneca's biologics pipeline from discovery through commercialisation.
Essential for the role
- Registered to practise before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
- Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited law school and admission to at least one US state bar.
- Advanced degree or strong scientific background in biological sciences, biochemistry, molecular biology, immunology, biotechnology or a related field.
- At least 3 years experience managing strategic pharmaceutical or biotechnology patent portfolios.
- Strong biologics, antibody and/or large molecule patent prosecution experience.
- Demonstrated ability to manage US and international patent matters across multiple jurisdictions.
- Demonstrated ability to independently develop and implement IP strategies for complex research programmes.
- Experience advising senior stakeholders on patent and IP risk management.
- Experience supporting business development transactions, due diligence exercises and collaboration agreements.
Desirable for the role
- Ph.D. or equivalent advanced scientific training in a relevant life sciences field.
- Experience in both private practice and in-house environments.
- Experience leading external service providers.
- Experience supporting patent litigation, contested proceedings or oppositions.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
- High level of integrity, sound judgement and strong communication skills.
Office Working Requirements
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. Join us in our unique and ambitious world.
The annual base pay for this position ranges from $175,454.40 - 263,181.60 USD. 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.
Ready to make a difference? Apply now and join us on this exciting journey.
#LI-Hybrid
Date Posted
06-Aug-2026
Closing Date
06-Aug-2026
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.
