JOIN THE TEAM

Agriculture plays a fundamental role in fulfilling many of humanity's basic needs: food, feed, and energy. To support growers and those who take care of our environment, BASF develops innovative solutions for farming, pest control and landscape management - so that we can effectively contribute to improving people's lives and business' demands. Come join us on our journey at the Innovation Center of BASF Belgium Coordination Center CommV.

We are looking for a Patent Counsel turning innovation in the area of plant biotech and breeding into effective IP value. Our multidisciplinary and international team supports BASF's cutting-edge innovation pipeline dedicated to the development of novel seeds and traits.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Your tasks include the close contact with inventors, IP management, and R&D of the business division to counsel on all IP-related questions.
• Also, you are responsible for analyzing BASF's research and development results with regard to the protectability and value of achievable protection
• You draft patent applications and handle examination proceedings before the respective patent offices.
• You defend our patent portfolio in legal proceedings before patent offices and courts as well as secure freedom-to-operate for the business vis-à-vis our competitors.
• In addition, you support and coordinate patent litigation proceedings together with external law firms and support the build-up of a strategic patent portfolio.
• You analyze the monitoring of 3rd parties’ patents together with colleagues from IP Intelligence.
• You are responsible for designing IP portfolios that are optimally aligned with the business strategy and ensure that they are used worldwide to enforce business interests
• Finally, you draft and negotiate IP-related contracts such as licenses, joint development agreements, or cooperation agreements in interdisciplinary teams and conduct IP trainings for the business.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Degree (M.Sc. or PhD) in biology, biotechnology, (bio)chemistry or related field
• Completed training as European Patent Attorney
• At least four years IP experience in an industry IP department and/or major law firm
• Proven understanding and experience in drafting and prosecution of patent applications in biology, biotechnology or (bio)chemistry
• Experience in drafting and negotiating IP related contracts such as licenses and cooperations
• Business fluency in English. Knowledge of Dutch is an advantage
• A business-oriented mindset, enthusiasm for challenging IP questions and openness to work in interdisciplinary teams in a diverse and international environment

BENEFITS

• Responsibility from day one in a challenging but dynamic work environment and "on-the-job" training as part of a committed team.

• Competitive compensation including attractive benefits.

• Development discussions and programs so that you can reach your full potential.

• A dynamic team with enthusiastic colleagues.

• Onboarding to help you settle in quickly, ensuring you are part of the BASF team from day one.

• A good work-life balance with possibility of remote working according to the company policy.

ABOUT US

BASF is a multinational company dedicated to revolutionizing agricultural science. We are committed to developing innovative solutions that address global challenges in food security and sustainability.

If you need more information about the process or the vacancy, please reach out to talent-acquisition-belgium@basf.com

At BASF, the chemistry is right.

Because we are counting on innovative solutions, on sustainable actions, and on connected thinking. And on you. Become a part of our formula for success and develop the future with us - in a global team that embraces diversity and equal opportunities irrespective of gender, age, origin, sexual orientation, disability or belief.