Patent Attorney

Cambridge, UK | Full-time | Permanent 

We will also consider part-time applications for this role. Please indicate your preferred working schedule in your cover letter.  

About us 

Riverlane’s mission is to make quantum computing useful, sooner. From advances in material science to complex chemistry simulation for drug design and discovery, quantum computers will help solve some of the world’s most important challenges. Riverlane is building the quantum error correction stack to make this happen. It’s a complex problem that requires a range of skills, talent and passion. We’re making remarkable progress and growing fast. 

About the role 

This is a fantastic opportunity for a recently qualified or finals standard Patent Attorney who is keen to develop an in-house career in a world-leading quantum engineering company. In this role, you’ll use your experience working with computer software and hardware inventions to help manage Riverlane’s rapidly-growing IP portfolio. 

Reporting to the IP Manager, and in close collaboration with our quantum science and engineering teams, you will be responsible for drafting and prosecuting patents, both in-house, and in collaboration with outside counsel. Over time, you will help Riverlane to build a fully defensible moat to enable our company’s competitive advantage. 

A natural collaborator, you will be passionate about learning new technologies and will be excited to contribute to the exciting and cutting-edge field of quantum computing. This is an excellent opportunity for a commercially minded Patent Attorney to develop your in-house IP career in a world-leading, deep tech organisation. 

What you will do 

• Work closely with Riverlane engineers and scientists to solicit, identify and assess inventions and draft patent applications in quantum technologies 

• Prosecute patent applications in key global jurisdictions, using a timely and cost-effective approach 

• Raise levels of understanding and awareness of the commercial impact on IP within Riverlane 

• Work with the IP Manager to develop and refine Riverlane’s IP strategy 

• Understand the quantum landscape and Riverlane’s roadmap to effectively appraise the commercial relevance and importance of patent rights 

• Perform freedom to operate analyses and monitoring 

• Undertake prior art searches 

• Give decisive infringement evaluations 

• Keep up to date with intellectual property law by reading relevant literature and attending relevant courses and conferences 

• Foster a positive IP culture 

Requirements

What we need  

• Qualified or part-qualified UK and/or European patent attorney 

• Experience working with deep tech inventions, including hardware and software-related technologies 

• Ability to analyse complex technical systems and identify those systems’ essential features 

• Ability to generate clear, focused, and accurate arguments at legal hearings concerning patents and patent applications 

• Proven success working in a fast-paced environment, delivering against multiple work streams 

• Excellent communicator, with exceptional relationship-building and interpersonal skills 

• Meticulous attention to detail 

• Ability to explain complex information clearly and concisely 

Even better if you have

• Experience working with quantum technologies is preferred, but not essential 

Benefits

What can you expect from us 

• A comprehensive benefits package that includes private medical insurance, life insurance and a contributory pension scheme 

• Equity so that our team can share in the long-term success of Riverlane 

• 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays and enhanced family leave 

• A diverse work environment that brings together experts in many fields (including software and hardware development, quantum information theory, physics and maths) and over 20 different nationalities  

• A learning environment that encourages individual, team and company growth and learning, including an annual training and conference budget  

How to apply 

Please upload a CV and covering letter by clicking 'Apply Now'. Your covering letter should explain why you are applying for the job and what skills and experience you can bring to the role. 

We review CVs as we receive them and interview as soon as we have applications that look like a good match (usually within one week). We do not use closing dates. So, please apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out on this role. We advertised this role on 24th September, 2024. 

If you have any queries, please contact [email protected]. 

Everyone is welcome at Riverlane. We are an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from eligible and suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender reassignment, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, or pregnancy and maternity/paternity. 

Studies have shown that women tend to apply to jobs if they meet all or almost all of the requirements whereas men apply even if they meet only some of the requirements. If that sounds like you then please apply – we are happy to review your application and let you know if we think you might be a good fit. 

If you need any adjustments made to the application or selection process so you can do your best, please let us know. We will be happy to help.