We are looking for a Senior Patent Counsel. You’ll be part of a cross-functional team whose mission is to lead IonQ on its journey to build the world’s best quantum computers to solve the world’s most complex problems. 

The Senior Patent Counsel will manage all legal matters related to patents and is responsible for day-to-day management and protection of IonQ’s assets.You will play a critical role in the development and implementation of the global patent strategy, build effective relationships with relevant stakeholders at all levels of the organization, and provide clear, strategic business-enabling patent advice.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement a patent strategy aligned with IonQ’s business priorities to achieve optimal protection of IonQ’s business and innovations
• Provide strategic counsel to the business regarding the competitive patent landscape for current and future product portfolio plans, and substantive issues of patent law, strategy, and enforcement
• Support litigation relating to patent matters
• Oversee the processes for preparing and prosecuting patent applications, handling patent portfolio analyses and third-party risk assessments
• Develop and advise on patent policies, programs, and guidelines in keeping with best practices
• Build and maintain relationships with key outside counsel while managing external legal costs
• Work cross-functionally within IonQ to influence and create actionable initiatives and reduce legal risk
• Act as liaison with scientific and other department staff regarding the preparation of supporting documentation for patent applications and follow-on filings

You’d be a good fit with: 

• Ability to think strategically and provide guidance on complex IP topics
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills
• Ability to effectively collaborate with all levels of management, including senior leadership, to drive business results
• Demonstrated ability to manage outside counsel and work efficiently and effectively with limited resources
• 5+ years’ experience in intellectual property law gained from law firm and in-house positions
• Good standing in states where licensed to practice law
• USPTO registration
• Juris Doctorate from an accredited law school and admitted to the bar of at least one state 

You’d be a great fit with:

• 3+ years’ experience with patents relating to quantum technologies 
• 5+ years’ experience with patents relating to cutting-edge computer hardware and software
• Demonstrated ability to manage and develop a team
• Undergraduate or additional degrees in a technology related field
• Demonstrated excellence in project management