Associate Principal Scientist - Oligonucleotide Chemistry

Are you a motivated scientist with expertise in synthetic chemistry and have a great interest in the development of Oligonucleotide Therapeutics? Do you wish to join a growing team where you will have the possibility to further exploit our drug discovery platforms? If yes, we have the position for you at AstraZeneca, Discovery Sciences in Gothenburg, Sweden!

We are seeking for an Associate Principal Scientist to join our Oligonucleotide Chemistry team within the Oligonucleotide Discovery Department, part of the Discovery Sciences R&D organization at AstraZeneca in Gothenburg, Sweden.

You will apply cutting-edge expert knowledge and skills in the field of oligonucleotides, including oligonucleotide design and synthesis of oligo-related building blocks, to expand the use of oligonucleotide therapeutic, and molecular conjugates thereof, in the treatment of diseases across therapy areas within AstraZeneca. In doing so you demonstrate a passion for driving scientific questions, combined with strong working ethics and the ability to work well within teams aiming to drive drug discovery projects forward.

The Oligonucleotide Chemistry team is working in close collaboration with other Scientists in Discovery Sciences, Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacology, DMPK, Safety and Pharmaceutical sciences with a focus on the goal to design and develop the oligonucleotide therapeutics of the future. We offer a highly rewarding scientific environment with the expectation that you drive AZ scientific reputation by identifying and progressing publication opportunities in the field of oligonucleotides internally, across AZ and/or together with external partners.

What you will do:
As Associate Principal Scientist we rely on you to have recognized synthetic organic chemistry expertise within the oligonucleotide chemistry field and to function as a scientific specialist within the team. Focus will be put on effective delivery to drug discovery projects including internal laboratory work and collaborations with external services and partners.

The APS provides support, supervision and mentorship to junior scientists. Ensures that methods are run professionally and develops and guides the setup of new techniques. As well as recommend, gain dedication to, initiate, lead and champion new innovations and investments that aids the department to meet its overall objectives. You will build strong collaborative relationships with the project investigators, key stakeholders and cross functional project scientists to ensure the smooth running and execution of projects.

Additional accountabilities:

* Apply cutting-edge technologies and methodologies to establish a state-of-the-art oligonucleotide chemistry platform including laboratory capabilities.
* Contribute to the strategy for the ongoing development of oligonucleotides, and conjugates thereof, and their application to relevant disease areas.
* Directly impact on oligonucleotide projects to ensure high scientific standards and quality of compound design to meet project objectives.

Essentials for the role:

* Candidate should have a PhD in Synthetic Organic Chemistry, post-doc is a plus.
* Advanced and up to date knowledge about synthetic strategies, techniques and reactions.
* Knowledge in the area of oligonucleotide therapeutics including design and synthesis thereof.
* Strong evidence of experimental impact through a track record of High-Impact and High-Quality publications and external presentations.
* Several years of shown experience in drug discovery and/or early development or in a leading academic institution.

The successful candidate is a scientifically critical individual capable of receiving and analyzing input from multiple fields and deciding on focused course of action. Excellent English is required, both spoken and written, and have the ability to operate effectively in a multi-disciplinary research environment. We also believe that you should show self-awareness of training needs, including leadership development, be a strong team player and an encouraging colleague to all.

Why AstraZeneca?
Our Gothenburg site is one of AstraZeneca's three strategic science centres. We thrive in a multinational environment working cross-functionally across the globe with AstraZeneca colleagues as well as academic and industry partners. Our way of life is to develop a working environment that furthers collaboration, openness and innovation. Therefore, we have built space for meetings, and socializing, where spontaneous meetings can give birth to new innovations.

Does this sound like a position for you? Welcome to apply today!

We look forward to your application, but no later than 21st February, 2021.

More information:
For more information about the position please contact Anders Dahlén at +46 31 706 4842 or anders.dahlen@astrazeneca.com

Additional information:
Our Gothenburg site: https://www.astrazeneca.com/our-science/gothenburg.html
Life in Gothenburg: https://www.movetogothenburg.com/