Corporate Life Sciences Associate Attorney

Job Description

Job Description

Corporate Life Sciences Associate Attorney

Direct Counsel is seeking a Corporate Life Sciences Associate Attorney to join the Corporate Practice Group of a prestigious international law firm. This opportunity is available in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania or Washington, D.C. and offers the chance to work with leading biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and life sciences companies on sophisticated strategic transactions and licensing matters.

The ideal candidate will have 3–4 years of corporate transactional experience with a focus on the life sciences industry. Candidates should possess strong drafting skills, experience negotiating commercial agreements, and a demonstrated interest in advising innovative companies operating in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and medical device sectors.

Key Responsibilities

• Represent biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and medical device companies in a variety of strategic transactions.

• Draft, review, and negotiate complex commercial agreements, including:

  • License agreements

  • Collaboration agreements

  • Supply agreements

  • Research and development agreements

  • Strategic partnership agreements

• Conduct legal research and analysis to support transactional strategy and execution.

• Assist with the structuring, negotiation, and management of sophisticated corporate transactions from inception through closing.

• Prepare legal memoranda, correspondence, and transaction-related documentation.

• Collaborate with attorneys across multiple practice groups to provide comprehensive legal solutions for clients.

• Participate in client meetings, negotiations, and strategic planning discussions.

• Maintain strong client relationships through responsive communication and practical legal advice.

• Stay current on industry developments, regulatory considerations, and evolving legal issues affecting life sciences companies.

QualificationsRequired

• J.D. from an accredited law school.

• Active bar admission in Pennsylvania or Washington, D.C., or eligibility to become admitted promptly.

• 3–4 years of corporate transactional experience at a law firm.

• Significant experience drafting and negotiating commercial agreements within the life sciences sector.

• Experience working with biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or medical device companies.

• Excellent academic credentials.

• Strong legal research, writing, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational abilities.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred

• Experience at an AmLaw 100 or similarly sophisticated law firm.

• Prior experience advising life sciences companies on strategic licensing and collaboration transactions.

• Strong business judgment and client counseling skills.

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team-oriented environment.

• Demonstrated interest in the life sciences industry and emerging technologies.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary ranging from $260,000 to $365,000 , depending on experience, qualifications, and geographic market.

• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and retirement plans.

• Hybrid work arrangement with regular in-office collaboration and flexibility for remote work.

• Opportunity to work with industry-leading life sciences companies on cutting-edge transactions.

• Professional development, mentorship, and long-term career advancement opportunities within a premier global law firm.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a corporate associate seeking to deepen their experience in the life sciences sector while working on sophisticated transactions for innovative and market-leading companies.