Senior Scientist – Medicinal & Bioconjugation Chemistry

Job Description

This role represents an opportunity to play an integral role in the growth of Gilead’s bioconjugation team. This highly integrated team bridges medicinal chemistry, protein therapeutics and additional functions using traditional and next generation bioconjugation techniques. The ideal candidate will demonstrate deep expertise in modern platforms and techniques for synthesis, purification and characterization of small molecule, peptide/protein and LNP bioconjugates. A strong foundation in synthetic organic and medicinal chemistry as applied to small molecule drug discovery will lead to maximal success in the role. Please consider joining Gilead’s Small Molecule Drug Discovery organization and contribute to our goal of discovering transformational medicines.

Responsibilities

• Bioconjugation Chemistry: leading the expansion of Gilead’s ADC and bioconjugation labs and capabilities while working across the interface of medicinal chemistry, protein therapeutics and discovery biology to coordinate the design, synthesis and purification of protein bioconjugates.

• Medicinal Chemistry: Design and optimization of traditional small molecule inhibitors, degraders and cytotoxic payloads. Devise linkers for optimal properties of bioconjugates. Contribute to the execution of small molecule drug discovery programs through interpretation of SAR, design and synthesis of new analogs.

• Propose and Execute New Projects: identify new opportunities from within the internal pipeline and external landscape, work cross-functionally to develop project proposals and present at scientific review meetings.

• Bioconjugation Strategy: further develop the group’s vision for long term growth and ability to assess and support new projects and modalities.

• Method Development: Develop and optimize known and novel bioconjugation methodologies for various applications. Troubleshoot existing workflows and suggest improved methods.

• Documentation: Maintain accurate and detailed records of all experiments, analyses, and results in accordance with industry standards and regulatory requirements.

• ADC Data Management: Collaborate with Gilead Research Data Sciences and Research Informatics group to enable structured data acquisition for ADC modalities.

• Training and Support: Provide training and technical support to junior staff and other team members on bioconjugation techniques and instrument operation.

• Collaboration: Strong emphasis on effective communication and effective collaboration across multiple functions across R&D as well as with external collaborators. Presentation of scientific results at team and group meetings.

Required Qualifications

• Education: Ph.D. (+2 years), Master's (+ 8 years) or Bachelor's (+6 years) in organic chemistry, or equivalent discipline with an emphasis in multi-step organic synthesis and bioconjugation applications.

• Bioconjugation Chemistry: expert at the synthesis and purification of protein bioconjugates including:

• Experience with ADC characterization methods including SEC, HIC, RPLC, and high-resolution mass spectrometry methods for DAR assessment.

• Experience with the use of preparative methods for ADC purification.

• Familiarity with automation platforms for high-throughput conjugation.

• Familiarity with enzymatic conjugation methods.

• Familiarity with traditional and next generation bioconjugation handles

• Experience with design and implementation of various linker cleavage mechanisms

• Hands-on experience with protein handling and purifcation (buffer-exchange, desalting, protein A capture)

• Exposure to various classes of small molecule payloads

• Track record of success as a project team leader

• Strong synthetic skills and a solid knowledge of modern organic synthesis techniques

• Strong data processing and analysis skills including coding language for data analysis and database management. Excellent troubleshooting skills and ability to develop and optimize analytical methods.

• Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present findings clearly and concisely.

• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

• High level of accuracy and attention to detail in all aspects of work.

Preferred Qualifications

• Education: Ph.D. (+5 years), Master's (+ 20 years) or Bachelor's (+ 22 years) in organic chemistry, or equivalent discipline with an emphasis in multi-step organic synthesis and bioconjugation applications.

• Experienced at working with potent compounds.

• Experience conducting multi-step organic synthesis and the use of associated instrumentation.

• Experience with lipid bioconjugation methods and lipid nanoparticle antibody conjugation

• Prior experience conducting parallel or automated synthesis.

• Knowledge of DMPK, ADME and pharmacology principles.

People Leader Accountabilities:

•Create Inclusion - knowing the business value of diverse teams, modeling inclusion, and embedding the value of diversity in the way they manage their teams.

•Develop Talent - understand the skills, experience, aspirations and potential of their employees and coach them on current performance and future potential. They ensure employees are receiving the feedback and insight needed to grow, develop and realize their purpose.

•Empower Teams - connect the team to the organization by aligning goals, purpose, and organizational objectives, and holding them to account. They provide the support needed to remove barriers and connect their team to the broader ecosystem.