Patent Research Specialist (EU Design Patents & Locarno Classification)

About the Role:
We are looking for an experienced Patent Research Specialist to conduct thorough design patent searches in the EU market. This role goes beyond simple keyword or classification-based searches. You will be responsible for ensuring that no relevant patents are missed due to misclassification, reducing the risk of false negatives (cases where a patent exists but is overlooked due to unexpected classification).

Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct comprehensive EU design patent searches using publicly available databases (e.g., EUIPO, WIPO, Espacenet) and other relevant sources.
- Review all Locarno classifications and systematically eliminate only those that are 100% irrelevant to the product, ensuring no potentially conflicting patents are overlooked.
- Analyze and document the search process, including reasoning for included/excluded classifications, and provide structured reports.
- Identify potential design similarities across different Locarno classifications and advise on possible infringement risks.
Stay updated on IP trends, design patent case law, and classification changes within the EU market.
- Work closely with the product development team to assess patent risks before launching new products.

Requirements:
- Proven experience in patent research, preferably in design patents within the EU market.
- Strong knowledge of EUIPO and Locarno classification system.
- Ability to conduct searches beyond simple classification-based methods, considering misclassifications and broader design similarities.
- Understanding of false negatives in patent searches and ability to develop strategies to mitigate them.
- Experience with patent databases such as EUIPO, WIPO, Espacenet, and DesignView.
- Excellent analytical and documentation skills—must be able to explain why certain classifications were included/excluded.
- Ability to work independently and make judgment calls on relevant vs. irrelevant classifications.
- Familiarity with design protection strategies, including novelty assessment and invalidity searches, is a plus.
- Legal/IP background is beneficial but not required—strong patent search experience is more important.

Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience working with IP law firms, patent offices, or companies in product development/IP protection.
- Understanding of EU design patent filing processes and ability to advise on defensive registration strategies.
- Knowledge of patent disputes and enforcement trends in the EU market.

What We Offer:
- A flexible, remote work opportunity.
- The chance to work with an innovative product development team.
- Competitive compensation based on experience and expertise.