Lateral Associate, Biotechnology or Chemical – 3rd to 5th Year

Due to the exciting level of interest in our firm, we are unable to individually contact all candidates to collect materials to complete applications. To submit a complete application, please ensure the following documents are included:

• Resume
• Recent writing sample
• All academic transcripts (unofficial copies accepted)

• JD and actively licensed as an attorney in a U.S. jurisdiction. Must be eligible to waive into the D.C. Bar or be willing and eligible to sit for the D.C. bar exam.
• Master’s degree focused on molecular biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, chemistry, organic chemistry, molecular genetics, human genetics, antibodies, immunology, or related scientific discipline
• 3-5 years practicing patent prosecution at another law firm
• USPTO registration number
• A strong foundation in IP and patent law
• Previous wet lab experience preferred
• The ability to communicate legal concepts clearly and concisely

• The good faith salary range for this role is $225,000 to $285,000 at a 1900 billable hour goal.

Named for several years as a "great place" to work by The Washington Post and Washington Business Journal, Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox P.L.L.C. is proud to be one of the most highly regarded intellectual property specialty law firms in the world. We recognize that it is the talent and dynamism of each individual at Sterne Kessler that makes that possible. With that in mind, we have cultivated an environment that is welcoming, inclusive, and intellectually stimulating with just the right touch of fun and exuberance. We offer a competitive compensation package with excellent benefits and are Metro-accessible in a prime downtown location with many nearby restaurants and shops.

Sterne Kessler is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

• This role is based in our Washington, D.C. office on a hybrid basis, though remote candidates in the United States will still be considered. If you’re hybrid in the Washington, D.C. office, you have flexibility to pick which days you work in the office.

Our Biotechnology & Chemical Group is known for its market‑leading depth in life sciences and chemical patent work and its close connection to cutting‑edge innovation. The group handles sophisticated patent prosecution, PTAB proceedings, and strategic counseling for technologies spanning biotech, pharmaceuticals, chemistry, and materials science, allowing associates to work at the intersection of science, law, and business. With a collaborative culture, strong mentorship, and early responsibility on complex matters, associates gain hands‑on experience shaping robust patent portfolios and defending them in high‑stakes disputes—making the group an ideal home for lawyers who want intellectually rigorous work and long‑term professional growth in a premier IP practice.

• PhD preferred, with focus on focused on molecular biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, chemistry, organic chemistry, molecular genetics, human genetics, antibodies, immunology, or related scientific discipline
• Previous wet lab experience
• Stellar academic credentials