About BlocQ
BlocQ, Inc. is a deep-tech startup headquartered in Tokyo and Silicon Valley, on a mission to solve cybersecurity challenges in the quantum computing era. We research and develop algorithms and software for quantum computers, bringing together world-class quantum researchers, software engineers, and cybersecurity experts — many with roots at the University of Tokyo — to extract peak performance from quantum hardware.
We are working toward the world's first commercialization of quantum digital computing. If you want to be at the frontier of that effort, we'd love to meet you.
Role Overview:
We are looking for an Intellectual Property Specialist to lead IP strategy from planning through execution at a deep-tech startup specializing in quantum software. This is a critically important position: you will translate our cutting-edge R&D outcomes into competitive business advantages and build a global IP portfolio.
Working closely with researchers and engineers, you will uncover inventions, extract patentable elements, coordinate with external patent firms, and manage filings in Japan and key international markets (especially the US and Europe). You will also review IP-related clauses in collaborative research agreements and NDAs with universities and external partners.
Key Responsibilities: IP Strategy
Define patent filing and trade-secret protection policies for the quantum software domain
Build and manage domestic and international (especially US and European) patent portfolios in alignment with business planning and R&D
Conduct competitive intelligence and prior-art searches; perform Freedom-to-Operate (FTO) analysis
Formulate IP strategies (open/closed, etc.) to establish and sustain competitive advantage
IP Operations & Internal Collaboration
Work closely with internal researchers and engineers to uncover inventions and extract protectable IP elements
Manage patent specification drafting, filing, prosecution, and search in coordination with external patent firms
Review IP-related clauses in joint research agreements, NDAs, and contracts with universities and external partners
Required Qualifications:
Practical experience in patent filing and prosecution at a company or patent firm
Curiosity and willingness to engage with and understand technical content outside one's own specialty when collaborating with engineers and researchers
Self-driven mindset: ability to independently stay current on business and R&D developments, then plan and execute IP activities autonomously
Preferred Qualifications:
Practical experience in international patent filing and prosecution, particularly in the US and Europe
Professional working proficiency in English
Academic or professional background in physics, information science, or mathematics
Compensation & Benefits
Salary: To be determined (commensurate with experience)
Incentive: Stock options
Raises: Determined based on performance
Transportation: Fully covered
Insurance: Health, pension, employment, workers' compensation
Overtime pay: Paid per standard rates
Work Conditions
Employment type: Permanent (no fixed term)
Probation: 3 months
Working hours: 9:00 – 18:00 (60‑min break) · ~10–45 hrs overtime/month
Location: Shibuya, Tokyo (5‑min walk from Shibuya Station)
Remote: Remote‑first (hybrid available)
Days off: Saturdays, Sundays, national holidays, Golden Week, year‑end/New Year
Paid leave: 10+ days from the 7th month of employment
Smoking: Non‑smoking workplace
Selection Process: 2–3 interview rounds
