At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative peptide drug projects and drive their development to market.
- Company: Join AstraZeneca, a pioneering biopharmaceutical company focused on serious diseases.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible benefits, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Collaborative office culture with opportunities for mentorship and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in drug development and enhance your scientific expertise.
- Qualifications: Degree in a relevant field with experience in peptide development and project leadership.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Location: Macclesfield, UK
About AstraZeneca
AstraZeneca is a global, science‑led, patient‑focused biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development and commercialisation of prescription medicines for some of the world’s most serious diseases. At AstraZeneca, we are pioneering new frontiers by identifying and treating patients earlier, working towards the aim of eliminating cancer as a cause of death.
We’ll strengthen our pharmaceutical sciences capability through the role of Associate Principal Scientist – Peptide Development Chemistry on constructive challenge. Working in the Early Chemical Development (ECD) New Modalities team we will manage peptide and peptide‑conjugate projects and help bring peptide‑based products to market.
Key Responsibilities
- Act as project technical lead for early chemical development of complex peptide and peptide‑conjugate drug projects, driving process development and manufacturing of peptide‑containing drug substances and defining manufacturing strategy for API processes, primarily through external partnership with CMDOs.
- Demonstrate scientific leadership, contribute strategic thinking and provide expert challenge within peptide (and peptide‑conjugate) drug project CMC teams, role‑modeling positive behaviours in new ways of working and accelerating scientific development.
- Engage outward‑facing perspective to identify opportunities, collaborate across functional and departmental boundaries, tap into specialist capabilities and external expertise.
- Mentor and develop colleagues, supporting them in reaching their full potential.
- Enhance AstraZeneca’s scientific reputation through publishing research and engaging in external collaborations.
Requirements
- Degree or equivalent scientific qualification (Master’s or PhD preferred) in a relevant field.
- Deep understanding of the drug development process, spanning discovery through to launch, with clear evidence of significant CMC project expertise.
- Significant direct experience of peptide‑specific chemical development with a track record of delivery and creativity in leading drug substance development projects within a CMC organisation, with demonstrated skill to provide influence, strategic direction, deliver technical supervision (internally/externally) and give mentorship.
- Hands‑on experience of conjugation chemistry involving peptide linkers or peptide targeting agents.
- Solid understanding of the regulatory environment for clinical development and supply of peptide and peptide‑containing drug substance.
Desirables
- Strong leadership skills, excellent communication and strategic influencing ability, including experience of partnering with external CROs and CDMOs.
- Strong development focus of self and others, with an interest in learning about new scientific areas.
- Ability to think and operate across functional boundaries, challenge the status‑quo and seek opportunities for business improvement.
In Office Requirement
We encourage in‑office collaboration, with a minimum of four days per week in the office, while offering flexibility to support individual needs.
Competitive salary and benefits package on offer! The successful candidate will have access to a flexible employee benefits fund, including holiday purchase and flexible time off, pension contributions, Share Save Plans, performance recognition scheme and a competitive, generous remuneration package.
Our mission is to build an inclusive and equitable environment. We welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of characteristics. We offer reasonable adjustments and accommodations. If you need adjustments, complete the section in the application form.
Associate Principal Scientist –PeptideDevelopmentChemistry - Pharmaceutical Sciences (PS) in Macclesfield employer: AstraZeneca
AstraZeneca is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration in the heart of Cambridge. Employees benefit from extensive professional development opportunities, a commitment to diversity and inclusion, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the pharmaceutical industry through cutting-edge research and AI integration.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Principal Scientist –PeptideDevelopmentChemistry - Pharmaceutical Sciences (PS) in Macclesfield
✨Unlock Networking Opportunities
Dive into industry-specific events like pharmaceutical conferences and seminars, where you can meet hiring managers from companies like AstraZeneca. These are goldmines for making connections and learning about job openings before they hit the mainstream job boards.
✨Join Relevant Professional Bodies
Get involved with organisations such as the Royal Pharmaceutical Society or your local pharmaceutical professionals' network. Being an active member can boost your credibility and may even lead to job referrals in top organisations like AstraZeneca.
✨Leverage Internships for Full-time Roles
If you can, consider pursuing internships in the pharmaceutical industry, especially with companies like AstraZeneca. These opportunities often pave the way for full-time positions and allow you to demonstrate your capabilities firsthand.
✨Tailor Your Approach
When you're applying for roles, don't rush it! Take the time to customise your applications for specific positions, showcasing relevant skills and experiences that align with what AstraZeneca is looking for. A tailored application can really make you stand out!
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Principal Scientist –PeptideDevelopmentChemistry - Pharmaceutical Sciences (PS) in Macclesfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in the pharmaceutical industry, it's crucial to highlight any relevant experience you have. Whether that's internships, lab work, or even related coursework, make sure to weave this into your CV and cover letter. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're applying for at AstraZeneca!
Emphasise Your Understanding of Regulations:The pharmaceutical industry is heavily regulated, so it's important to indicate your familiarity with industry standards and regulations. In your cover letter, mention any training or certifications you've received that are relevant, or discuss projects where you’ve navigated compliance. This will show AstraZeneca that you're not just a fit for the job but also a safety-conscious candidate!
Tailor Your CV to Be Result-Driven:Craft your CV to highlight quantifiable achievements, especially if you have previous roles in pharmaceuticals or related fields. Use metrics to demonstrate your impact, such as improved processing times or successful project completions while working on trials. This analytical approach will resonate well with hiring managers at AstraZeneca!
Convey Your Passion for the Industry:In your cover letter, express why you are passionate about working in the pharmaceutical sector. Whether it’s your desire to contribute to groundbreaking drug research or improve patient outcomes, let it shine through! At AstraZeneca, we value candidates who are truly enthusiastic about their work—you might just stand out from the crowd.
How to prepare for a job interview at AstraZeneca
✨Understand the Science
Make sure you brush up on key pharmaceutical concepts and recent developments in the industry. You might get asked some technical questions during the interview at AstraZeneca that show your grasp of drug development processes or regulatory requirements, so be ready to discuss them clearly.
✨Showcase Relevant Experience
If you have any hands-on experience or internships in a laboratory setting, be sure to highlight these in your responses. Think about the projects you worked on, the methodologies you used, and the impact you made. It's all about telling a story that connects your background to the role you're applying for.
✨Know Their Products
Take some time to familiarise yourself with AstraZeneca’s product range and recent breakthroughs. Understanding their portfolio not only shows your enthusiasm for the role but also allows you to ask insightful questions that demonstrate your interest in actively contributing to their projects.
✨Be Ready for Regulatory Scenarios
In a full-time pharmaceutical role, understanding the regulatory landscape is crucial. Prepare for situational questions that may test your problem-solving skills concerning compliance and safety standards. You could be asked how you'd handle a hypothetical issue regarding a drug’s market release, so think through your approach.
