Technical Advisor - Quantum

McDonnell Boehnen Hulbert & Berghoff LLP (MBHB) is seeking a highly specialized Technical Advisor or Patent Agent with deep domain expertise in Quantum Information Science and Technology (QIST). This role will be pivotal in shaping, protecting, and prosecuting high-value global patent portfolios spanning quantum computing hardware and software, quantum communication, and quantum sensing technologies. The ideal candidate bridges the gap between cutting-edge physics/engineering research and intellectual property law, translating complex theoretical physics concepts and hardware implementations into robust, enforceable patent applications.

As a Technical Advisor or Patent Agent, you will support our attorneys by taking on challenging technical problems, developing patent strategies, conducting prior art searches, drafting patent applications, and assisting with legal opinions. Your role will be pivotal in helping clients secure their intellectual property rights while shaping the future of our practice.

At MBHB, we believe in a dynamic, flexible environment that fosters collaboration and the growth of both technical and legal professionals. This position offers a unique opportunity for candidates who are passionate about technology and interested in the intersection of law and innovation. Ideal candidates should have a deep curiosity about technology, a creative approach to problem-solving, and an eagerness to work in a fast-paced, client-driven environment. No prior legal experience is required.

Key Responsibilities

• Patent Application Drafting & Prosecution: With training from attorneys, work to draft and prosecute patent applications. Engage in back-and-forth communication with the USPTO and clients to ensure high-quality submissions.
• Legal & Technical Support: Assist in preparing legal opinions, supporting attorneys in formulating legal arguments, and advising clients on intellectual property matters.
• Prior Art Search & Analysis: Conduct thorough technical research and prior art searches to support patent filings and prosecution strategies.
• Client & Inventor Collaboration: Attend invention disclosure meetings with clients to understand their technologies and provide technical insights that inform patent strategies. Maintain strong, professional relationships with clients, effectively communicating complex technical concepts to both legal and non-legal audiences while representing the firm's technical expertise.
• Project Ownership: Take initiative in managing projects independently, from drafting patent applications to handling deadlines and ensuring timely deliverables.
• Creativity & Innovation: Leverage your technical expertise to approach problems with unconventional solutions and contribute innovative ideas to improve our practice.
• Learning Mindset: An eagerness to learn about the intersection of law and science and how your technical knowledge can contribute to legal outcomes.
• Mentorship and Development: Learn from experienced professionals within the firm and contribute to a supportive team culture. Over time, take on increasing responsibility for patent preparation and client interaction.

Education Job Requirements:

• Ph.D. or Master’s degree in Physics, Applied Physics, Quantum Information Science, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, or Optics/Photonics.
• Candidates should be eligible to take the USPTO Patent Exam and become a registered Patent Agent within one year of hiring.

Experience

• 0-5 years of work or industry experience in this technical field, ideally with a focus on high-tech areas such as quantum computing, quantum algorithms, quantum mechanics, quantum sensing, quantum error correction, quantum cryptography, post-quantum cryptography, physics, mathematics, electromagnetics, optics, semiconductors, photonics, or similar technical field.
• Strong interest and experience in technology—a true passion for understanding how systems work and finding solutions to technical challenges.
• No prior legal experience is required, but candidates should have an interest in the legal aspects of technology, IP, and patent law.

Skills

• Strong Technical Background: In-depth understanding of high-tech concepts and experience with quantum computing or quantum computing-adjacent technologies
• Writing Skills: Strong writing ability, particularly in drafting technical documents like patent applications, reports, and analysis.
• Analytical & Critical Thinking: Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze complex technical issues and communicate them effectively.
• Creativity & Innovation: Ability to approach problems with a creative and sometimes unconventional mindset, offering fresh perspectives to clients and attorneys.
• Time Management & Organization: Ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and ensure high-quality work product with minimal oversight.
• Client & Team Engagement: Strong interpersonal skills to build relationships with clients and collaborate effectively with team members.
• Curiosity & Ownership: A genuine curiosity about new technologies and an ownership mindset that drives proactive problem-solving.

Location: Chicago, IL Compensation: The anticipated base salary for this position is $110,000 to $120,000. In addition to base pay, practitioners are eligible for origination bonuses, engagement bonuses, and productivity bonuses for hours billed in increments of 50 more than the 1,900-hour requirement.

Benefits: Please visit our website to learn more about benefits provided https://www.mbhb.com/culture-and-development/ (If the hyperlink does not open automatically, please copy and paste the URL into your browser)

MBHB is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity or expression, or any other protected group status under the law. MBHB is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer in accordance with regulations adopted by the Connecticut Commission on Human Rights and Opportunities.