IP Attorney

Lex Generalis (Lex) is a boutique law firm focused on servicing universities and research institutions, venture capital firms, and venture capital-backed businesses. Lex is based in Arizona and employs a small team that with a growing group of companies in the industrial technologies, energy transition, and life sciences spaces.

The clients Lex advises are focused on bringing to market new diagnostics for several forms of cancer, advanced capabilities for gene sequencing, energy efficiencies in lithium-ion battery manufacturing, and magnets without rare Earth elements. Lex’s team works closely with these clients to secure financing, build and defend patent portfolios, and engage in beneficial commercial agreements.

We are looking for a full-time IP Attorney with strong experience in patent strategy and portfolio management. The IP Attorney will advise early-stage and growth-stage clients on intellectual property development, protection, and commercialization strategies, working closely with scientists, inventors, and business leaders to align IP protection with commercial objectives. This position is remote.

Key Activities

• Advise clients on intellectual property strategy, including invention capture, patent portfolio development, and competitive positioning across biotechnology, chemistry, materials science, and related technologies.
• Conduct IP due diligence for venture capital financings, mergers, acquisitions, and other strategic transactions, including review of patents, trade secrets, and license agreements.
• Review and draft IP-related provisions in commercial agreements, including NDAs, licensing agreements, collaboration agreements, and research agreements.
• Support clients in developing internal IP processes, including invention disclosure systems, publication reviews, and trade secret protection practices.
• Stay informed of changes in IP law, regulatory considerations, and industry best practices to ensure compliance and forward-thinking strategy.
• Collaborate closely with other Lex attorneys, clients, investors, and external counsel to integrate IP strategy with broader legal and business initiatives.

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.
• Successful completion of the bar exam and licensure to practice law in the relevant jurisdiction (required).
• 4+ years’ experience practicing intellectual property law, preferably with a focus on early-stage companies, university spinouts, or venture-backed businesses.
• Technical background or demonstrated familiarity with life sciences, chemistry, materials science, or a related field.
• Experience in IP strategy, due diligence, and portfolio analysis; experience advising on commercialization and licensing preferred.
• Strong legal writing and research skills.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate legal issues and recommendations to diverse stakeholders.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.