Postdoc Fellow-Chemically Modified Therapeutic Oligonucleotides

About the Postdoc Program:

We're currently looking for a talented scientists to join our innovative academic-style Postdoc. From our centre in Gothenburg, Sweden, you'll be in a global pharmaceutical environment, contributing to live projects right from the start. You'll take part in a comprehensive training programme, including a focus on drug discovery and development, given access to our existing Postdoctoral research, and encouraged to pursue your own independent research in cutting edge laboratories. It's a newly expanding programme spanning a range of therapeutic areas across a wide range of disciplines.



What's more, you'll have the support of a leading academic advisor, who'll provide you with the guidance and knowledge you need to develop your career. This is an exciting area that hasn't been explored to its full potential, making this an opportunity to make a real difference to the future of medical science.



About the Opportunity:

Why this role? Because therapeutic oligonucleotides are a rapidly advancing and innovative field in drug discovery. In this exciting Postdoc, you will explore and further develop RNA chemical modifications to improve the pharmacological profile of oligonucleotide drugs. You will be guided and coached by supervisor, Anna Rydzik, as well as other scientists at AstraZeneca's New Modality Unit. Moreover, you will have access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities that will allow you to develop and explore oligonucleotide chemistry. In addition, the Postdoc will collaborate with Professor Peter Barnes, at the UCL, UK, a highly-respected leader in the field.

If being on the cutting-edge of vital scientific research is meaningful to you, don't miss this opportunity!



Essential Education and Experience:

* PhD in chemical biology, organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry or related field with an emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches towards scientific questions
* Possess hands-on experience with small molecule synthesis and purification
* Working experience with common analytical techniques including NMR, HPLC, GC and MS
* Demonstrate an interdisciplinary mindset combined with openness towards new technologies
* An outstanding track record of research, proven by publications in peer reviewed journals, patents and/ or talks at scientific meetings

Desirable Qualifications:

* Background in oligonucleotide synthesis and purification
* Hands-on experience with LC-MS methods and data analysis of biomolecules
* Experience with phosphoramidite synthesis and nucleoside chemistry
* Basic experience with molecular biology techniques and running biophysical assays

Skills and Capabilities required:

* Independently design and execute experiments and interpret results
* Work towards defined goals in an efficient, safe and scientifically sound manner
* Generate and test new hypothesis
* Ability to effectively share expertise and ideas, demonstrate flexibility and open-mindedness
* Proven background succeeding in cross-functional teams
* Effective presentation skills, with recognized results at scientific conferences and publication of scientific papers in high quality, peer-reviewed journals
* Analytical thinker and critical problem solver



This is a 3-year programme. 2 years will be a Fixed Term Contract, with a 1-year extension which will be merit based. The role will be based in Gothenburg, Sweden, with a competitive salary on offer



Advert opening date - March 20, 2020

Advert closing date - May 17, 2020



About AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca is a global, innovation-driven biopharmaceutical business that focuses on the discovery, development and commercialisation of prescription medicines for some of the world's most serious diseases. But we're more than one of the world's leading pharmaceutical companies. At AstraZeneca, we're proud to have a unique workplace culture that inspires innovation and collaboration. Here, employees are empowered to express diverse perspectives - and are made to feel valued, energised and rewarded for their ideas and creativity.