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[Bibi Ghosh]

Hi:
 I have a Ph.D in organic chemistry, 3 years of postdoctoral, scientific publications in reputed journals,  1 year in a nanotech company and 2 years in a pharmaceutical company as senior scientist. I am thinking of making a move toward IP. I am planning to make the first move by taking pat bar exam, become an agent and work in a biotech/pharma company in the IP group and then attend law school as I work.  Is this a viable option? How is the job situation as patent agents? Are they needed only in biotech/pharma companies or do law firms hire them too?

Also, if I work and attend law school, I don't think the school would be a top tiered one. How does this affect my resume, given that my law degree comes in addition to my Ph.D, post doc work etc?

thanks

[JimIvey]

It's hard to say much as my practice is very different -- being an attorney in a different technical discipline.

You're technical qualifications seem quite good from what I can.  That can overcome most any deficiency in legal schooling -- especially for a firm or company needing someone with your technical expertice.  In fact, I think your technical expertice takes you out of the general market of patent agents.  

The more pertinent question is the demand for patent practitioners with real and substantial nano-technology competence.  I don't know the answer to that question, but I suspect it's significant and will increase substantially in the future.

If you can find someone in that practice area (either inhouse patent counsel at your current/former employer or the firm that represented them), they might be able to provide some sort of answer.

Good luck!

[M. Arthur Auslander]

Dear Bibi Ghosh,

The law degree removes limit as to what and where you can go. There are two aspects doing it ourself and getting a job.

With the law degree there are more options. If you love what you are doing, things will happen.