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- Tasks: Drive innovative research in synthetic chemistry for drug discovery.
- Company: Join AstraZeneca, a leader in pioneering healthcare solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on medicine and patient care through groundbreaking research.
- Qualifications: PhD in organic synthesis with a strong publication record.
- Other info: Collaborate with a diverse team in a vibrant research environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
The Discovery Centre, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, UK
Competitive salary and benefits
Do you have expertise in and passion for organic synthesis? Would you like to be a part of a team that is driving the discovery of first in class therapeutic candidates for difficult drug targets and to apply your knowledge to streamline synthesis of complex molecules? Then join the Global Oncology Chemistry department at AstraZeneca and unlock the power of what science can do.
As a postdoctoral fellow, you’ll research and develop novel chemical reactions applicable to drug discovery programs. This is an exciting opportunity for an outstanding and ambitious synthetic organic chemist with experience in methodology development and total synthesis to join the Early Oncology chemistry team to develop novel reactions that streamline synthesis of complex molecules.
You will be joining the Global Oncology Chemistry department to collaborate with a multinational team of experienced synthetic organic chemists and drug hunters, based in pioneering laboratories at AZ's vibrant Discovery Centre (DISC) in Cambridge (UK). This project will conduct pioneering research in addressing current synthetic challenges that hinder the development of small‑molecule drugs. These challenges include access to nitrogen heterocycles existing in the form of a spirocycle/bearing a quaternary centre, and how to improve scope/efficiency of transition‑metal catalysed (e.g. palladium and nickel) processes.
You will be supervised by Dr. John Chu, Senior Research Scientist at AstraZeneca. You will report to Laura Evans, Associate Director at AstraZeneca, and receive academic mentorship and guidance from Dr. Mattia Silvi, Associate Professor at the School of Chemistry, University of Nottingham. This is a laboratory‑based role. Your main duty is to enhance accessible chemical space for drug discovery through novel reaction development. You will also evaluate the applicability of recently published reactions to the synthesis of complex molecules relevant to medicinal chemistry.
Key Duties & Responsibilities:
- Solving complex synthetic chemistry problems
- Discovery and optimisation of novel reactions
- Sharing research with the chemistry community both internally and externally through presentations at meetings and conferences, and publication.
Essential Skills/Experience:
- PhD in organic synthesis
- Extensive knowledge of contemporary synthetic organic chemistry
- Ability to independently drive project work towards goals
- Track record of delivering novel solutions to solve complex synthetic problems
Our Postdoc program is aimed at individuals with a strong publication record who are either: Within 4 years of obtaining their doctoral degree (PhD) – PhD already awarded, or PhD students, soon to obtain doctoral degrees (the PhD must be awarded within 6 months of joining AstraZeneca).
Desirable Skills/Experience:
- Experience in transition metal catalysis (e.g. palladium and nickel), photochemistry and/or electrochemistry is an advantage but not vital.
At AstraZeneca, we are dedicated to being a Great Place to Work, where you are empowered to push the boundaries of science and unleash your entrepreneurial spirit. There is no better place to make a difference to medicine, patients, and society. An inclusive culture that champions diversity and collaboration, and always committed to lifelong learning, growth, and development. We are on an exciting journey to pioneer the future of healthcare. As a respected specialist, we will empower you to take appropriate risks, lead the project and “run with it”, along with providing you with all the support you need.
Date Posted 30-Jan-2026
Closing Date 27-Feb-2026
Our mission is to build an inclusive and equitable environment. We want people to feel they belong at AstraZeneca and Alexion, starting with our recruitment process. We welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of characteristics. We offer reasonable adjustments/accommodations to help all candidates to perform at their best. If you have a need for any adjustments/accommodations, please complete the section in the application form.
Postdoctoral Fellow - Synthetic Methodology in Cambridge employer: AstraZeneca
Contact Detail:
AstraZeneca Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Fellow - Synthetic Methodology in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the field of organic synthesis, attend relevant conferences, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your research, methodologies, and any novel reactions you've developed. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, having tangible evidence of your work can really set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain your research and its impact in a clear and engaging way. Whether it's during an interview or a casual conversation, being able to communicate your passion for synthetic methodology can make a lasting impression.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We at StudySmarter encourage you to submit your application directly on our platform. It’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves and shows your enthusiasm for joining our innovative team.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Fellow - Synthetic Methodology in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for organic synthesis shine through! We want to see how your passion aligns with our mission at AstraZeneca to drive drug discovery.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in synthetic methodology and any projects that showcase your problem-solving skills. We love seeing how you’ve tackled complex challenges in your past work!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Be specific about your experiences and how they relate to the key duties outlined in the job description. We want to know what makes you tick!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your materials and can consider you for this exciting opportunity in our Global Oncology Chemistry department.
How to prepare for a job interview at AstraZeneca
✨Know Your Chemistry
Make sure you brush up on your organic synthesis knowledge, especially around the specific methodologies mentioned in the job description. Be ready to discuss your previous work and how it relates to the challenges AstraZeneca is facing in drug discovery.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of complex synthetic problems you've solved in the past. Highlight your thought process and the innovative solutions you developed, as this will demonstrate your ability to contribute to their research goals.
✨Engage with the Team Spirit
AstraZeneca values collaboration, so be prepared to discuss how you've worked in teams before. Share experiences where you contributed to group projects or shared your research with others, showing that you're a team player who can thrive in a multinational environment.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, the team, and the ongoing projects at AstraZeneca. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if the company culture aligns with your values and career goals.
