Patent Counsel Global IP (m/f/d)

WELCOME TO BASF

Agriculture plays a fundamental role in fulfilling many of humanity's basic needs: food, feed, and energy. To support growers and those who take care of our environment, BASF develops innovative solutions for farming, pest control and landscape management - so that we can effectively contribute to improving people's lives and business' demands. Come join us on our journey at the Innovation Center of BASF Belgium Coordination Center CommV.

We are looking for a Patent Counsel turning innovation in the area of plant biotech and breeding into effective IP value. Our multidisciplinary and international team supports BASF's cutting-edge innovation pipeline dedicated to the development of novel seeds and traits.

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT

• Your tasks include the close contact with inventors, IP management, and R&D of the business division to counsel on all IP-related questions.
• Also, you are responsible for analyzing BASF's research and development results with regard to the protectability and value of achievable protection.
• You draft patent applications and handle examination proceedings before the respective patent offices.
• You defend our patent portfolio in legal proceedings before patent offices and courts as well as secure freedom-to-operate for the business vis-à-vis our competitors.
• In addition, you support and coordinate patent litigation proceedings together with external law firms and support the build-up of a strategic patent portfolio.
• You analyze the monitoring of 3rd parties’ patents together with colleagues from IP Intelligence.
• You are responsible for designing IP portfolios that are optimally aligned with the business strategy and ensure that they are used worldwide to enforce business interests.
• Finally, you draft and negotiate IP-related contracts such as licenses, joint development agreements, or cooperation agreements in interdisciplinary teams and conduct IP trainings for the business.

WHAT YOU OFFER

• You have a degree (M.Sc. or PhD) in Biology, Biotechnology, (Bio-)Chemistry or related field.
• You completed training as European Patent Attorney.
• You have at least four years IP experience in an industry IP department and/or major law firm.
• You have a proven understanding and experience in drafting and prosecution of patent applications in Biology, Biotechnology or (Bio-)Chemistry.
• You have experience in drafting and negotiating IP-related contracts such as licenses and cooperations.
• You are fluent in business English. The knowledge of Dutch is an advantage.
• You have a business-oriented mindset, enthusiasm for challenging IP questions and openness to work in interdisciplinary teams in a diverse and international environment.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Responsibility from day one in a challenging but dynamic work environment and "on-the-job" training as part of a committed team.
• Competitive compensation including attractive benefits.
• Development discussions and programs so that you can reach your full potential.
• A dynamic team with enthusiastic colleagues.
• Onboarding to help you settle in quickly, ensuring you are part of the BASF team from day one.
• A good work-life balance with possibility of remote working according to the company policy.

HOW TO REACH US

If you need more information about the process or the vacancy, you can reach our recruiting team here. 

ABOUT US

BASF is a multinational company dedicated to revolutionizing agricultural science. We are committed to developing innovative solutions that address global challenges in food security and sustainability.

Diversity is our greatest strength!

Become a part of our winning formula for success and develop the future with us - in a global team that embraces inclusion and equal opportunities irrespective of gender, age, origin, sexual orientation, disability or belief.