Associate Intellectual Property

Mainz, Germany   |   full time   |   Job ID: 11049 

About the role:

BioNTech SE serves as BioNTech’s headquarters in Europe and are an important part of our global effort to pioneer the development of next-generation immuno-oncology therapies. BioNTech has a strong foundation and a focus on the development of novel neoantigen-targeted T cell therapies, complementing BioNTech’s highly innovative scientific approach and diversified pipeline of transformative cancer medicines.

BioNTech is seeking a talented Patent Paralegal to join a growing Global Intellectual Property team in Mainz.

The Patent Paralegal will report to the Director Intellectual Property Lead IP Operations and is responsible for monitoring and supporting all prosecution to BioNTech’s worldwide IP portfolios. A successful candidate will be meticulous, motivated with a positive attitude, and a strong team player.

Your contribution:

Here, you will achieve greatness as a Patent Paralegal. Your main responsibilities are:

• Support IP Attorneys with their daily IP prosecution to ensure timely filing.


• Docket/monitor internal and statutory deadlines related to prosecution, maintenance, and conflicts of BioNTech’s worldwide patent portfolio.


• Monitor group mailboxes for reporting emails and instructions.


• Coordination of portfolio activity filing recommendations, collation of instructions, and creation of new inventions and patent records.


• Provide support as required with annual patent portfolio review, e.g., checking that all columns in the portfolio review table have been completed; transferring the information/results to the patent management system; instructing the law firms and updating the files.


• Assist IP Attorneys in preparing and finalizing Invention Disclosure Forms and coordinating inventor signatures.


• Manage inventor‑remuneration workflows, including drafting and processing claiming letters or waivers of rights, and overseeing document execution through DocuSign.


• Coordinate signature processes with internal and external inventors and handle all required formalities, including assignments, declarations, and powers of attorney, as well as board‑level signatures and any necessary notarization or legalization. Partner with outside counsel to ensure all formalities are completed efficiently and on time.


• Review patent expiration dates and annuities for accuracy.


• Develop internal processes including quality control procedures and checklists.


• Prepare patent status reports upon request.


• Engage with internal team and outside counsel to improve ways of working together.


• Take ownership of essential administrative tasks, including archiving files and lab books, and coordinating seamlessly with service providers, accounting, and cross‑functional teams to keep operations running smoothly.


• Supporting IP attorneys in applying for/changing purchase orders.


• Actively contribute to specific IP-related projects as directed by line manager.

A good match:

• Certified Patent Paralegal or equivalent training and minimum 5 years’ experience in worldwide patent prosecution.


• Exceptionally strong communicator (written and verbal) with employees of all levels, supportive interpersonal team player, and ability to contribute positively to BioNTech company culture.


• Exceptional organization skills and meticulous.


• Maintains current knowledge and understanding of patent prosecution terminology and filing procedures.


• Utilizes innovative thinking and sound decision-making.


• Must be highly accurate.


• Able to solve problems and provide solutions.


• Demonstrate flexibility.


• Must be able to manage multiple priorities under deadline-driven pressures.


• Demonstrated ability to learn new IP management software, technology, processes, and procedures.


• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat essential.


• Fluent in English.

Nice to have:

• Experience with Anaqua IP Management software or any equivalent IP management software.


• Preferably experience in implementing and/or using e-billing systems.

Apply now - We look forward to receiving your application!

Apply to our Mainz, Germany location by sending us your documents via our online form. For any questions, contact our talent acquisition team on: + 49 (0) 6131-9084-1291 (Monday-Friday from 1 PM to 3 PM CET).

Job ID 11049 (please always specify if you have any questions)

By submitting your application, you acknowledge that a background check will be conducted as part of the recruitment process in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. If you are considered for the position, BioNTech will conduct the background check through our service provider ‘HireRight’. You will be informed accordingly by your BioNTech-Recruiter.