Senior Patent Paralegal / Senior Patent Paralegal

Novartis Pharma AG - June 8, 2025

Job ID: REQ-10040975

Date: May 06, 2025

Location: Basel, Switzerland

Summary

The successful candidate will be responsible for the timely, independent management of complex intellectual property (IP) administrative tasks, including filing and legal support. You will engage proactively within a high-performing team, providing a diverse range of complex IP administrative support to a defined group of patent practitioners engaged in regional, international, and foreign filing.

Your role will involve maintaining and managing an accurate and complex docket using a patent docketing system while applying your expert knowledge of IP law and practices. You will also undertake operational and strategic responsibilities to enhance the effectiveness of paralegal support at both local and global levels. This position includes contributing to and improving departmental best practices and training others in all areas of European Patents (EP) and foreign patent matters. Additionally, you will lead initiatives within the Patent Support team aimed at increasing efficiency and improving current processes.

About the Role

Your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

  • Filing EP, international, and foreign patent applications along with related correspondence from filing to grant issuance.
  • Managing EP and international patent filings and patent nationalizations into foreign jurisdictions.
  • Preparing all necessary documents for EP, Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT), and foreign applications, while proactively initiating responses to official communications.
  • Maintaining and sharing advanced knowledge of the latest patent rules and adapting practices accordingly.
  • Monitoring and updating electronic docket(s) for responsible attorneys and associated paralegal tasks daily.
  • Ensuring that all assigned cases meet their deadlines in a timely manner through proactive management.
  • Independently conducting critical reviews, maintenance, and assistance for assigned attorney dockets and workloads.
  • Coordinating the outsourcing and transfer of patent files and responsibilities efficiently, minimizing the loss of rights.
  • Communicating effectively with colleagues, inventors, foreign agents, and other associates.
  • Actively participating in patent group and cross-divisional meetings as necessary.
  • Providing support in other areas within the Patent Support team as needed (such as annuities and invoicing).
  • Overseeing projects aimed at addressing global prosecution and operational issues affecting the department.
  • Leading teams in developing procedures and processes.
  • Conducting meetings as needed.
  • Recommending areas or systems for improvement in operational efficiencies.

What You'll Bring to the Role

  • Relevant degree in Law, Paralegal, or equivalent IP certification or experience.
  • Proficiency in English (spoken and written); additional languages are an asset.
  • Demonstrated professional experience as a patent paralegal in a law firm or corporation, with exposure to international and foreign filing.
  • Adept at managing complex environments, ensuring high-quality deliverables.
  • Advanced knowledge of patent databases and report-generating tools.
  • Able to work independently and meet deadlines in an electronic office setup.
  • Strong research, critical thinking, and decision-making abilities with keen attention to detail.
  • Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
  • Capable of collaborating with cross-divisional teams to prevent duplication of efforts and facilitate effective knowledge sharing.
  • Proven leadership qualities with the ability to mentor and develop other paralegals.
  • Acting as an advocate for the Patent Support team at NIBR sites.

Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion

Novartis is dedicated to fostering an outstanding, inclusive work environment and building diverse teams that reflect the patients and communities we serve.

Accessibility and Accommodation

Novartis is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to all individuals. If you require a reasonable accommodation due to a medical condition or disability, please reach out via email to Show e-mailm"> to communicate the nature of your request and your contact information. Be sure to include the job requisition number in your message.

Why Novartis?

Helping people affected by diseases and their families requires more than just innovative science. It demands a community of smart and passionate individuals working together to inspire, support, and achieve breakthroughs that transform patients' lives. Ready to work together towards a brighter future?

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Benefits and Rewards

To learn about how we support your personal and professional growth, please read our benefits handbook:

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Apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Division

Legal

Business Unit

Universal Hierarchy Node

Location

Switzerland

Site

Basel (City)

Company / Legal Entity

C028 (FCRS = CH028) Novartis Pharma AG

Functional Area

Legal & Intellectual Property & Compliance

Job Type

Full time

Employment Type

Regular

Shift Work

No

Novartis is dedicated to creating an exceptional, inclusive work environment and building diverse teams that reflect the patients and communities we serve.

Location : BASEL
Country : Switzerland

Application Form

Please enter your information in the following form and attach your resume (CV)

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