• Job Description

  Req#: R-185347

  Sr. Scientist, Medicinal Chemistry, TTD, Early Oncology

  Location: Waltham, MA, US

  Do you want to be at the cutting edge of innovation that will lead to state-of-the-art therapies for cancer? At AstraZeneca, we turn ideas into life changing medicines. Our pioneering oncology pipeline enabled by transformative technologies drives us forward. Working here means being ambitious, thinking big and working together to make the impossible a reality for the patients.

  This Opportunity

  The newly hired Sr. Scientist will actively contribute and influence programs involving small molecule ligand discovery in tumor targeted delivery (TTD) chemistry group. This role is part of an important strategy to deliver highly specific therapeutics including, but not limited to, small molecule, peptide and antibody drug/prodrug conjugates with various targeting modalities to treat cancer. For this purpose, small molecule discovery strategies will be deployed (i.e., structure-based drug design, LipE/FQ-directed hit-to-lead optimization as well as HTS/fragment-based/DEL screening efforts). There will be opportunity to work closely with computational chemists and structural biologists.

  Core Accountabilities:

  • Design and develop modular strategies compatible for rapid access to small molecule targets (strong organic synthesis background is required)
  • Learn and employ medicinal chemistry strategies that will enable the discovery of novel, differentiated small molecule candidates for tumor targeted delivery by incorporating optimal structural, pharmacological, physicochemical, metabolic, and safety considerations
  • Prioritize deliverables and projects in fast pace environment
  • Demonstrate creativity, problem-solving and critical thinking skills to overcome challenges all while building/strengthening IP
  • Closely collaborate with project team members and leverage CRO resources to meet timelines
  • Regularly attend, present and actively participate in group meetings as well as write project update reports
  • Participate in writing and submission of patent applications, peer-reviewed articles, and abstracts for scientific conferences
  • Exhibit leadership and team-player qualities and demonstrate willingness to develop younger colleagues and foster mentorship
  • Ensure that appropriate safety, health & environment (SHE) practices are followed

  Essential Requirements:

  • Doctoral degree (Ph.D.) or equivalent focused in synthetic organic chemistry or medicinal chemistry
  • 0-3 years of experience in academia, biotech and/or pharmaceutical industry setting, with a strong track record of scientific innovation and success documented through peer-reviewed publications
  • Subject matter expert in organic synthesis and methodology, with general knowledge of the mechanisms of chemical reactivity and awareness of latest scientific literature.
  • Strong work ethic and adherence to safe practices in the laboratory.

  Site Location

  The Waltham R&D site is home to our small-molecule oncology research in North America. It is situated within a biopharma cluster of academic research institutions, medical centers, pharmaceutical companies and biotech start-ups. The Boston region is consistently ranked #1 globally for biotech research, investment, talent recruitment and lab space.

  The campus, also known as the Boston BioHub, is one of the largest and most dynamic life-science research hubs in the region. It is home to more than 800 scientists and experts working in nine different pharmaceutical and biotech companies. The site is also home to the AstraZeneca Incubator, a program that helps emerging companies advance novel and innovative healthcare solutions to meet the needs of patients. Plenty of free covered/uncovered parking is available along with charging stations for electric vehicles. Additionally, shuttle service to local transportation hubs is also available.

  As AstraZeneca continues to put patients at the forefront of our mission, we are excited for our move to Kendall Square/Cambridge in 2026. Find out more information here:

  Kendall Square Press Release

  Why AstraZeneca?

  At AstraZeneca, we are dedicated to being a Great Place to Work. A place where employees are empowered to push the boundaries of science and unleash their entrepreneurial spirit. There is no better place to make a difference to medicine, patients, and society. An inclusive culture that champions diversity and collaboration. Always committed to lifelong learning, growth, and development.

  So, what is next?

  A place built on courage, curiosity, and collaboration – we make bold decisions driven by patient outcomes. Empowered to lead at every level, free to ask questions and take calculated risks that write the next chapter for our pipeline. If you are swift to action, confident to lead, willing to collaborate, and passionate about the possibilities, then we are keen to hear from you!

  Date Posted

  21-Nov-2023

  Closing Date

  AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics (e.g. race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status). We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorisation and employment eligibility verification requirements.

  AstraZeneca requires all US employees to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 but will consider requests for reasonable accommodations as required by applicable law.

• About the company

  AstraZeneca PLC is a British-Swedish multinational pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical company with its global headquarters in Cambridge, England.

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