Jobs in Biotechnology

When a company develops a new product, it will often want to apply for a patent. A patent is a government document that gives the holder the exclusive right to make and sell a product, usually for a period of twenty years. After twenty years have passed, any manufacturer can create copies of your invention or product and sell it in direct competition with you. Lawyers and patent agents prepare the documents necessary to acquire patents. Lawyers also assist biotechnology companies in forging collaborations with other companies and drafting confidentiality agreements and other legal documents. Patent agents need bachelor's degrees, and lawyers require law degrees.