Director, Intellectual Property

IDEAYA Biosciences is seeking an experienced Intellectual Property (IP) Attorney. Reporting directly to the Vice President of Intellectual Property, this role will support the Companys IP function to protect the Companys small molecule product candidates. The ideal candidate will enjoy working collaboratively with inventors across various departments, senior scientific leaders, and the legal team. This position is based in our South San Francisco headquarters and is onsite four days per week per company policy.

• Global IP portfolio management, including preparing and prosecuting patent applications focused on small molecules, and developing IP strategy
• Partner with cross-departmental teams to understand project technology, identify patentable inventions, and implement protection strategies
• Identify and evaluate complex risks (e.g., patentability, infringement, validity) and develop business-focused mitigation strategies
• Conduct freedom-to-operate reviews, analyze third-party patent positions, and guide overall IP strategy
• Perform IP due diligence and provide support for business development opportunities
• Manage external legal counsel and ensure compliance with global IP laws and regulations
• Coordinate and manage patent filings and strategy with collaborators and licensors
• Assist in building IP department infrastructure and policies, and provide internal IP training
• Monitor and assess competitive IP landscape and industry trends for risk and opportunity analysis

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, preferably Organic Chemistry, or Masters in Organic Chemistry
• Juris Doctorate from an ABA-accredited law school and a member in good standing of the California Bar, or the ability to qualify as California Registered In-House Counsel
• Registered before the United States Patent and Trademark Office
• Minimum 7 years of experience in providing IP counsel and support in pharmaceutical small molecules (patent preparation and prosecution, life cycle management, opinion, and IP strategy), including preferably 2-3 years in-house experience
• Proven track record developing and implementing patent strategies with demonstrated success securing meaningful patent protection for products and related technology
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and cooperatively in a fast-paced startup environment with internal teams and to respond in a timely and effective manner
• Must have strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret complex scientific and legal information
• Proficiency in using scientific and IP databases
• Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills and attention to detail

Along with our inspiring mission, and a highly collaborative and inclusive environment, IDEAYA offers a competitive total rewards package that reflects our pay-for-performance philosophy where employees are eligible for merit-based salary increases, discretionary short-term incentive plan participation, and discretionary stock option awards (based on board approval). Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical/dental/vision coverage (100% company paid for employees and 90% company paid for dependents), 401k, ESPP, and wellness programs.

The expected salary range for the role of Director, Intellectual Property is $238,000–$294,000. The final salary offered to a successful candidate will depend on several factors including location, relevant experience, disease area exposure, education, and performance during the interview process.

The Company complies with all laws respecting equal employment opportunities and does not discriminate against applicants based on protected characteristics as defined by federal, state, and local law. IDEAYA is an equal opportunity employer (EOE/AA/Vets). This position requires onsite work and vaccination against COVID-19, subject to applicable law and reasonable accommodations.