Sr. Counsel, Intellectual Property

About Azenta Azenta Life Sciences is a global leader in the life sciences space with headquarters in Burlington, MA, and offices and operations worldwide. We are a market leader in automated bio sample management solutions and genomic services across areas such as drug development, clinical and advanced cell therapies for the industry's top pharmaceutical, biotech, academic and healthcare institutions globally. We provide unparalleled capabilities with our lab analysis, sample management and storage services, informatics software, and consumables, with the largest installed base managing millions of samples globally. Position Summary The Sr. Counsel, Intellectual Property is a senior individual contributor responsible for the strategic management, protection, and enforcement of Azenta’s global intellectual property portfolio. This role encompasses the full spectrum of IP disciplines (utility and design patents, trade secrets, trademarks, and copyrights), spans the complete IP lifecycle from procurement through enforcement and monetization, and collaborates cross‑functionally to ensure our freedom to operate and secure contractually sound positions with suppliers, customers, and technology partners. Reporting to the Senior Vice President, General Counsel & Corporate Secretary, the Sr. Counsel, IP will serve as a trusted advisor to executive leadership, R&D, product management, and business development teams on all IP matters. The successful candidate will be a proactive, strategic thinker who combines deep technical IP expertise with strong business acumen, excellent communication skills, and the ability to manage a high volume of work with efficiency and sound judgment. Key Responsibilities Patent Portfolio Strategy & Management Manage Azenta’s global patent portfolio, develop and maintain an in‑depth understanding of its strengths, gaps, and strategic opportunities relative to the company’s current and future product roadmap and business trajectory. Develop and implement near‑term and long‑term patent strategies to optimize portfolio coverage. Oversee and lead the company’s IP Steering Committee, facilitate cross‑functional patent review meetings, drive patent harvesting and invention mining activities, and manage outside patent counsel for prosecution. Freedom to Operate & Risk Management Conduct and oversee freedom‑to‑operate analyses for new product launches and technology initiatives. Develop, coordinate, and review IP search and analysis projects, monitor the competitive patent landscape, and advise leadership on risks and opportunities. IP Enforcement & Litigation Identify and assess potential infringement, develop enforcement strategies including cease‑and‑desist actions, licensing negotiations, and litigation. Support and manage IP‑related litigation, including post‑grant proceedings and foreign oppositions, and provide technical guidance to litigation teams. M&A, Partnerships & Transactions Support IP due diligence for acquisitions, investments, partnerships, and licenses. Negotiate, draft, and review IP‑related agreements and manage integration activities following completed acquisitions. Training, Counseling & Communication Develop and deliver IP training programs for personnel, serve as a trusted advisor on IP strategy and risk, and provide clear, actionable reports to senior management. Key Success Criteria Proactive & Strategic: Anticipates IP issues, identifies emerging risks and opportunities. Executive Communication: Distills complex IP matters into clear business recommendations. High‑Volume Efficiency & AI Proficiency: Manages a high volume of IP matters effectively, leveraging AI‑powered tools. Collaboration & Influence: Builds strong relationships across R&D, product, business development, and commercial teams. Full‑Spectrum IP Expertise: Demonstrates deep knowledge across all IP attributes. Results Orientation: Delivers measurable results with urgency. Passion for What We Do: Inspired by Azenta’s mission. Qualifications Required Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an ABA‑accredited law school. Active membership in good standing with at least one U.S. state bar. Registration to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. 10+ years of progressive IP law experience, with top‑tier law firm experience preferred. Demonstrated experience managing a global patent portfolio, conducting freedom‑to‑operate analyses, and overseeing litigation. Transactional IP experience, including licensing and M&A diligence. Bachelor’s degree or advanced degree in a scientific or engineering discipline. Familiarity with AI‑powered IP tools and commitment to using technology. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work cross‑functionally. Preferred Qualifications Experience with IP in life sciences tools, diagnostics, or biotechnology. Experience with trademark portfolio management and brand protection. Experience with trade secret programs. Working Conditions/Schedule 4+ days/week onsite in Burlington, MA; S. Plainfield, NJ; or Indianapolis. Travel up to 10%, domestic and international, as needed. Compensation United States Base Compensation: $186,000.00 - $232,000.00 (range based on market data; may vary with experience, education, location). Equal Opportunity Employer Azenta is an Equal Opportunity Employer. This company considers candidates regardless of race, color, age, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. If any applicant is unable to complete an application or respond to a job opening because of a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io for assistance. #J-18808-Ljbffr Azenta Inc.