Job Description
At Straitdeer, we are at the forefront of technological innovation in AI, high-performance computing (HPC), and semiconductors. We are seeking a highly skilled IP Counsel to join our legal team in Singapore. In this pivotal role, you will safeguard and maximize the value of our intellectual property assets, driving competitive advantage in cutting-edge fields.
You will manage the full lifecycle of patent portfolios—from invention scouting and strategic filing to licensing and enforcement. Your expertise will be critical in monitoring IP risks, conducting freedom-to-operate analyses, and supporting cross-functional teams in R&D, product development, and business development. As a trusted advisor, you will also negotiate and draft complex IP agreements, including licenses, collaborations, and technology transfers.
This is an opportunity to work in a dynamic, global environment where your contributions directly influence the trajectory of breakthrough technologies. We value proactive legal counsel, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of both patent law and the technical domains of AI, HPC, and semiconductor design.
If you are passionate about intellectual property and thrive in a fast-paced innovation hub, we encourage you to apply and become a key enabler of Straitdeer's future.
Responsibilities
- Manage and expand the company's patent portfolio, including drafting, prosecuting, and maintaining patents in the US, Europe, and Asia.
- Conduct invention scouting sessions with engineering teams to identify patentable innovations in AI, HPC, and semiconductor technologies.
- Perform patent landscape analyses, freedom-to-operate searches, and IP risk assessments to guide product development and market entry.
- Negotiate and draft IP licensing agreements, technology transfer contracts, and collaboration deals.
- Monitor competitor IP activity and advise on IP enforcement, defensive strategies, and portfolio optimization.
- Provide legal counsel on trade secret protection, open-source compliance, and IP aspects of strategic partnerships.
- Support litigation and alternative dispute resolution matters related to patents and other IP rights.
- Educate and train internal stakeholders on IP best practices, invention disclosure processes, and risk mitigation.
Qualifications
- Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) or Juris Doctor (J.D.) from an accredited institution; admitted to practice law in at least one jurisdiction (Singapore bar preferred).
- Registration as a Singapore Patent Agent or equivalent foreign qualification (e.g., USPTO, EPO) strongly preferred.
- Minimum 5 years of experience in patent prosecution and IP counseling, ideally in a technology company or top-tier IP law firm.
- Demonstrated expertise in AI, machine learning, computer architecture, or semiconductor fabrication technologies.
- Strong technical aptitude; a degree in engineering, computer science, or a related STEM field is highly desirable.
- Excellent negotiation, drafting, and communication skills in English.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment.
- Experience with global patent portfolio management and familiarity with Asian IP regimes is a plus.