Patent Associate

Position Overview:

We are seeking a Registered Patent Agent with proven experience in pre-grant and post-grant proceedings to join our Intellectual Property team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for managing the entire patent lifecycle—from drafting and prosecution to oppositions and portfolio management—while ensuring compliance with the Indian Patent Act and international standards.

Key Responsibilities:

Pre-Grant Activities:

• Conduct prior art searches, freedom-to-operate analyses, and patentability assessments.
• Draft and file patent applications (provisional, complete, and PCT) before the Indian Patent Office and international authorities.
• Handle office actions and examination reports, including preparing responses and attending hearings.
• Coordinate with inventors, R&D teams, and clients to ensure accurate disclosure and claim drafting.
• Manage timelines and procedural compliance for patent filings and renewals.

Post-Grant & Opposition Work:

• Handle post-grant proceedings including oppositions, revocations, and rectifications.
• Prepare and file pre-grant and post-grant oppositions, along with counterstatements, evidence, and submissions.
• Support attorneys in litigation, infringement analysis, and invalidation proceedings.
• Monitor granted patents for annuity payments, amendments, and enforcement readiness.

Advisory & Strategic Support:

• Provide strategic advice on patent portfolio management, IP valuation, and commercialization.
• Conduct IP due diligence for mergers, acquisitions, or technology transfers.
• Stay updated on changes in patent laws, procedures, and case law.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Registered Patent Agent with the Indian Patent Office (mandatory).
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Science/Engineering/Technology
• Minimum 6-8 years of relevant experience in patent drafting, prosecution, and opposition proceedings.
• Law degree preferred
• Strong understanding of Indian Patent Law and PCT procedures.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in research tools such as Derwent, Orbit, PatBase, or similar databases.
• Meticulous attention to detail with strong analytical and organizational skills.