The DOE Intellectual Property Law (IPL) Division internship, is a hybrid professional/educational volunteer opportunity that offers real world work experience to a law student interested in patent preparation and prosecution. In order to preserve the Government’s rights in funded inventions, IPL evaluates, drafts and prosecutes patent applications. Successfully applicants will assist with this effort. The program is expected to run roughly 40 hours per week throughout the summer with flexible start and completion dates as well

Successful applicants will be tasked with a variety of assignments based upon their interests, expertise and training. Major duties include the following under the supervision of an experience patent attorney:

• Assist with IPL’s evaluation of inventions for patent protection on behalf of the Government
• Draft patent applications for filing at the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO under the supervision of an experienced patent attorney.
• Review, research and prepare response to office actions from the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) under the supervision of an experienced patent attorney
• Assist with the IPL’s annual audit programs reviewing data from the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) with data reported to the Department in order to identify potentially unreported inventions
• Assist with the scientific review and analysis of technical proposals and patent applications to help identify potentially unreported inventions.

Specific Expectations

· Bachelor’s degree a major in a hard science field (e.g. Engineering, biology, chemistry, etc.).

· Strong analytical and oral and written communication skills.

· Knowledge of fundamental science and mathematics principals to quickly understand technical writings including patents, technical papers and invention disclosures.

· Ability to translate basic information into specific actions; through reading and interpretation of regulations and technical material.

· Skills in dealing with others in a work relationship; and

· Good oral and written communication skills.

· An interest in the DOE’s mission, especially regarding intellectual property.

· Detail oriented, organized, and able to work independently.

· Able to work as a team and accept constructive criticism.

Requirements

· Bachelor’s degree a major in a hard science field is required, preferably

engineering, biology, physics, or chemistry.

· Successful applicants will work from home [telecommute]. DOE will not provide IT

equipment. Successful applicants must have operating computer systems

compatible with DOE operating programs.

· U.S. Citizenship is required