Manager, Patent Paralegal​/Ip Systems & Operations

Scripps Research is a nonprofit biomedical institute ranked as one of the most influential in the world for its impact on innovation. We celebrated our 100-year legacy in 2024. This significant milestone marks a century of seminal discoveries in immunology, infectious diseases (such as COVID-19, flu, HIV), neuroscience, heart disease, cancer, and more. Located in La Jolla, California, the institute houses six research departments, multiple Nobel laureates, a top-ranked graduate school and a leading postdoctoral training program.

Scripps Research encompasses two elite and highly innovative institutes, the Cali
-Skaggs Institute for Innovative Medicines and Scripps Research Translational Institute, which merge foundational studies in biology, chemistry and computer science with translational science to produce pioneering drugs and advances in digital and precision medicine. Together, we cultivate new scientific leaders and expand the frontiers of knowledge to deliver medical breakthroughs impacting human health around the globe. If you have a passion for making a difference, this could be your opportunity to join our transformative team.

The Patent Paralegal / Administrative Manager provides comprehensive support for the Office of Patent Counsel in patent prosecution, docket management, reporting obligations, and administrative operations. This role combines paralegal expertise with office management responsibilities, ensuring accurate and timely filings, compliance with grant obligations, and efficient coordination across internal and external stakeholders. Responsible for various patent prosecution matters, filing, docketing, reporting and office management.

• Prepare and file formal patent documents with the USPTO and PCT Receiving Office.
• Monitor and route communications from the USPTO, outside counsel, and foreign associates.
• Maintain complete patent files and coordinate new matter setup with OTD.
• Conduct compliance reviews, including Government Support Clause (GSC) and Verify File Completeness (VFC) audits.
• Track issued patents, record assignments, and maintain accurate prosecution histories

• Ensure all prosecution deadlines are accurately entered into the docket.
• Provide notifications and track authorizations for pending actions.
• Prepare and circulate monthly Patent Strategy Committee (PSC) dockets; take notes and update instructions.
• Support automation of deadline notifications through App Coll.

• Manage reporting obligations under grants and contracts (invention disclosures, confirmatory licenses, extensions, utilization reports).
• Advise iEdison on the progress of inventions and update records accordingly.
• Provide patent estate and status reports as requested by attorneys, OTD, or General Counsel

• Oversee OPC personnel records, subscriptions, and office equipment.
• Order supplies, process invoices and reimbursements, and coordinate purchase orders.
• Manage file archiving and storage logistics.
• Support hiring processes, onboarding, and general administrative functions.

• Maintain and reconcile the USPTO Deposit Account, ensuring sufficient funds for filings.
• Work with CPA Global (or equivalent) to manage patent annuity payments, invoices, and reporting.
• Provide receipts and billing information to OPC Billing for chargebacks to licensees.
• Details of established essential functions for this position will be addressed/discussed during the interview process.

• Bachelor’s degree in related field preferred
• 3-5 years’ experience as Paralegal or equitable legal experience.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Acrobat Pro, Outlook, and Dropbox required.
• Prior experience in patent prosecution, paralegal support, docketing and knowledge of U.S. and PCT patent filing processes.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage deadlines and communicate effectively with stakeholders.

While subject to change based on business needs, this is an on-campus position requiring a minimum of 4 days per week working onsite…