Merck Group is a multinational science and technology company headquartered in Darmstadt, Germany. Founded in 1668, it is one of the world’s oldest pharmaceutical and chemical companies. Merck operates in three main business sectors: Healthcare, Life Science, and Electronics. The company is known for its significant contributions to science and innovation, holding a strong global presence with numerous subsidiaries and research centers worldwide.
The Opportunity
An exciting new opportunity has arisen at Merck Group for the position of Patent Counsel, based at their site in Molsheim, France. This role involves providing strategic legal support and guidance on intellectual property (IP) matters, with a specific focus on patent-related activities. The Patent Counsel will collaborate closely with various departments, including R&D, business development, and management, to effectively protect and manage the company’s IP assets. This position represents an excellent opportunity for an up-and-coming Patent Attorney to make a tangible contribution and difference within the IP department of one of the foremost global pharmaceutical companies.
As a member of our Patents Life Science team, you will interact with our R&D, business, legal and patent teams worldwide advising on IP matters. You will identify opportunities, risks and solutions in support of the company’s business objectives, requiring a strong business mindset and solid understanding of our technologies, such as in relation to products in food and beverage pathogen testing (Assurance® GDS system), or for pyrogen testing (for example the PyroMATTM system).
The successful candidate will play an active role in managing the company’s IP portfolio through drafting, filing, prosecuting and defending patent applications and patents.
The Candidate
The successful candidate will most likely fulfil the following criteria:
- Possess a minimum of 3 years of patent law experience, especially in drafting and prosecuting biology and/or life science cases, preferably as an in-house counsel (although candidates from private practice will also be considered).
- Fully qualified or in the process of full qualification as a European Patent Attorney; qualification as a French Patent Attorney would be advantageous.
- Have a minimum of a Master / diploma degree in a biological science or similar.
- Fluency in English and French required; knowledge of German would be an asset.
- Self-motivated individual, with strong attention to detail and highly adept in time management.
- Possess effective oral and written communication skills.
- Able to rapidly grasp and utilise digital tools and technologies for patent practices.
