IP Manager

Who We Are

At Biotalys, we are transforming food protection. As a cutting-edge biotech company based in Ghent, Belgium - with a U.S. subsidiary in North Carolina - we are pioneering a new generation of protein-based biocontrols to protect crops safely and sustainably.

Through our AGROBODY™ discovery platform, we develop effective, safe products that combine the performance of chemicals with the safety of biologicals. Our innovations target key crop pests and diseases across the full value chain - from soil to plate.

Learn more at www.biotalys.com.

The Role

Biotalys is seeking an Intellectual Property (IP) Manager, preferably a qualified European Patent Attorney, to join our team. In this pivotal role, you will collaborate closely with R&D, legal, and business teams to shape and execute our IP strategy. You will be responsible for managing and expanding our patent and trademark portfolio, ensuring freedom to operate, and translating scientific innovation into strong IP assets. This is a hands-on, cross-functional role with high visibility across the organization.

We are looking for someone with a strong scientific background - ideally in biotechnology or molecular biology - and an in-depth knowledge of patent law and intellectual property, particularly in the life sciences or agricultural innovation space. You thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and are passionate about protecting innovation and enabling business growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and manage Biotalys’ global IP portfolio, aligning with business goals, budget constraints, and stakeholder interests.
• Ensure freedom to operate (FTO) by monitoring third-party IP, conducting FTO analyses, and implementing risk mitigation strategies.
• Drive innovation harvesting by engaging with R&D teams, reviewing experimental plans, and encouraging invention disclosures.
• Coordinate competitive intelligence and IP landscape analyses to support strategic decision-making.
• Oversee practical IP operations, including drafting and reviewing patent applications and office action responses in collaboration with external counsel.
• Support legal agreement processes, including IP clauses in contracts, licensing, and confidentiality agreements.
• Manage potential IP disputes, liaising with external legal counsel when necessary.
• Promote IP awareness across the organization through training, internal communications, and regular meetings with IP champions.
• Implement and maintain trade secret policies and ensure proper use of Biotalys trademarks.
• Drive Biotalys’ policy on Access and Benefit Sharing and Nagoya protocol. 

About You

• A Ph.D. in molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related scientific field.
• 3+ years of experience in intellectual property, including drafting, prosecution, FTO, and landscape analysis - ideally in the AgTech, Biotech, or Pharma sectors.
• European Patent Attorney qualification (preferred).
• Solid understanding of international IP law and procedures; familiarity with the Nagoya Protocol is a plus.
• Strong ability to communicate complex IP matters clearly and persuasively to both scientific and executive audiences.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Proficiency with IP management tools, patent databases, and Microsoft Office.
• A proactive, analytical mindset with a strong sense of ownership and attention to detail.
• A collaborative spirit and the ability to work independently in a cross-functional environment.

What We Offer

At Biotalys, our values - teamwork, innovation with impact, passion, well-being and accountability - are at the heart of how we work. Join a dynamic, multicultural team of innovators in the AgFood biotech sector and:

• Be part of a mission-driven company, shaping sustainable food production.
• Enjoy a collaborative work environment with room for growth.
• Benefit from a competitive salary and benefits package.
• Maintain a healthy work-life balance with flexible hours and telework options.

Apply Now

Ready to make an impact? Apply via our careers page at www.biotalys.com. Include your CV and motivation letter.

We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace.