Product Development Counsel

The Patent Counsel II supports legal matters relating to Foundation Medicine's intellectual property portfolio, with a primary focus on next-generation sequencing technologies, molecular diagnostics, bioinformatics, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, clinical decision support software, and computational oncology platforms.

This position contributes to the development and execution of FMI's global patent strategy and works closely with Research & Development, Product Development, Biostatistics, Bioinformatics, Medical Affairs, and Business Development teams to identify, protect, and maximize the value of innovative technologies. As part of this role, you will be expected to demonstrate subject matter expertise, independent judgment, strong business partnership, strong technical understanding of FMI's products and services, and collaboration across the organization. Draft, prosecute, and manage U.S. and foreign patent applications relating to molecular diagnostics, multiomic profiling technologies, bioinformatics, artificial intelligence and machine learning systems, in vitro diagnostic devices, data processing and computational biology, assay-related chemistries, sequencing, biomarkers, and therapeutic methods of treatment

Partner with scientists, engineers, software developers, data scientists, and business leaders to identify patentable inventions

Counsel business and R&D stakeholders regarding patent risks, opportunities, and competitive landscapes

Support diligence, collaborations, licensing transactions, and strategic partnerships

Advise on and assess IP risk associated with AI-related technologies

Build a strong partnership with cross-functional stakeholders

Deliver practical advice that appropriately balances legal risk and business objectives

Provide training regarding intellectual property best practices and innovation protection

Support patent litigation, USPTO proceedings, European oppositions, and licensing disputes as needed

Assist in competitive intelligence and monitoring of third‑party patent activity

Identify emerging legal or business risks and appropriately elevate issues when necessary

Develop a strong foundation in patent law and intellectual property strategy relevant to FMI's business

Demonstrate understanding of biotechnology, diagnostics, software, and AI‑related intellectual property issues

Partner effectively with more senior legal team members when appropriate

Communicate complex scientific and legal concepts clearly

Deliver high-quality work product within established timelines

Act as a trusted representative of the Legal organization

Comply with FMI's attendance policies

D. from an accredited law school

~S. in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Genomics, Cell Biology, Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, or a related discipline; S. in Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science, or Software Engineering; or an equivalent combination of biotechnology and software experience

Experience drafting and prosecuting patent applications with limited supervision

Knowledge of domestic and international patent and trade secret laws, regulations, and processes

Experience with AI/ML systems, bioinformatics pipelines, software platforms, cloud computing, or healthcare software

Strong oral and written communication skills, with the ability to explain complex legal and scientific concepts to audiences with varying levels of familiarity

Exceptional organization, planning, and attention to detail

Understanding of HIPAA and the importance of patient data privacy

The salary range is commensurate with Foundation Medicines compensation practice and considers factors including, but not limited to, education, training, experience, external market conditions, criticality of role, and internal equity. A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and Company performance. This position also qualifies for Foundation Medicine's benefits.

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