Patent Attorney

Job Summary

Salary Range: CHF146,300.00 – CHF271,700.00. Band Level: 6. Location: Basel, Switzerland or Cambridge, United States (separate posting).

Ready to shape the future of innovation at Novartis?

As a Patent Attorney, you will protect groundbreaking scientific discoveries and enable life‑changing medicines to reach patients worldwide.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide clear, strategic, and business‑focused counsel to Novartis R&D clients on invention protection, portfolio development, publication strategy, and third‑party risks.
• Build and manage patent portfolios for Novartis R&D projects by identifying inventions and preparing, prosecuting, maintaining, and defending patent filings across new molecular entities, processes, manufacturing, platforms, technologies, and clinical developments.
• Render legal opinions on patentability, validity, and freedom to operate, and develop patent strategies that strengthen IP positions and enable effective IP defense.
• Apply deep knowledge of national patent law and practice, including relevant legal developments and patent trends, to shape strategy and advice.
• Understand and apply other forms of exclusivity protection, as appropriate.
• Communicate effectively with colleagues and leaders across the legal, IP, and R&D organizations.
• Build and manage relationships with outside counsel and collaborators within a multicultural global patent function.
• Conduct due diligence and provide counsel on freedom‑to‑operate, infringement, validity, risk evaluation, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Provide IP support for transactional matters, including M&A, research collaborations, and in‑licensing opportunities, with advice on contract drafting and negotiation.
• Ensure high‑quality, timely delivery of work aligned with business goals and budgets.

Essential Requirements

• University degree in law, admission to the bar, and qualification as a European Patent Attorney / Lawyer.
• Advanced degree in chemistry or a related field, preferably a doctoral degree.
• Significant experience as a patent attorney within a law firm, pharmaceutical, or biotechnology environment.
• Strong technical expertise in chemistry, preferably with experience in small molecules, synthesis, or pharmaceutical development.
• Expertise in U. S. and PCT patent law, filing processes, and prosecution practice, with a detailed understanding of European patent law and other major global patent systems.
• Proven ability to partner with scientific and business stakeholders to deliver strategic intellectual property advice.
• Strong analytical, communication, and decision‑making skills with high attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively within a fast‑paced, global environment.

Benefits & Rewards

• Expected annual base salary range: CHF 146,300 – CHF 271,700.
• Performance‑based bonus opportunities.
• Long‑term equity awards at group level.
• Competitive benefits in kind, including insurance plans, retirement plans, wellbeing resources, and global recognition programs.
• Flexible and hybrid working options where possible.
• Minimum 14 weeks paid parental leave.
• Benefits and compensation may vary by country and are subject to local legal requirements, including collective bargaining agreements where applicable.
• Diversity, Inclusion & Accessibility

Novartis is committed to building an outstanding, inclusive work environment and diverse teams representative of the patients and communities we serve.

Novartis will provide reasonable accommodation to all individuals as needed.

EEO Statement

Novartis is an equal opportunity employer.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, veteran status, or any other protected class.

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