Kumquat Biosciences is a clinical-stage biotech company dedicated to translating breakthrough science into life-changing treatments for patients suffering from oncological, immunological, and inflammatory disorders. 

We are seeking a highly motivated patent agent to join our legal team to play a key role in advancing our intellectual property portfolio. You will serve as a strategic partner to our research and development, legal, and business teams with a focus on patent preparation and prosecution, patentability and freedom-to-operate analyses, and competitive intelligence across our whole pipeline and research activities. The ideal candidate demonstrates adaptability, a willingness to learn and contribute beyond their core functions, and a desire for significant opportunities for professional development.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, file, and prosecute patent applications, with a focus on chemistry-driven inventions 
• Develop and execute thoughtful patent prosecution strategies that align with business objectives across a complex global portfolio
• Design and conduct freedom-to-operate, patentability, and patent landscape analyses, clearly communicating IP risks and opportunities to internal stakeholders
• Support IP due diligence for business development and strategic transaction opportunities
• Collaborate closely with the research and development team to identify patentable inventions and provide proactive strategic guidance
• Work closely with domestic and foreign outside counsel to achieve practical, positive outcomes for our global IP portfolio
• Support and optimize established in-house IP workflows
• Proactively identify improvements to our internal IP infrastructure to meet the needs of our growing portfolio

• Admitted to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
• Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, or a closely related discipline
• 2+ years of experience as a patent agent at a law firm supporting clients in the pharmaceutical small molecule space
• Strong working knowledge of U.S. patent law and global patent prosecution strategies
• Experience supporting business development transactions, including executing freedom-to-operate and patentability analyses
• Excellent judgment, strategic thinking, and effective written and verbal communication skills
• Detail-oriented with the ability to multitask, anticipate challenges, and prioritize projects while delivering consistent, accurate results
• Eagerness to learn, take on new, complex challenges, and stretch beyond the immediate scope of the role
• San Diego based is preferred 

Salary Description: $160k - $200k