At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct lab experiments in peptide chemistry and support innovative drug development projects.
- Company: Join AstraZeneca, a leading biopharmaceutical company committed to improving global health.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, excellent employee benefits, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with diverse teams and cutting-edge technology.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on healthcare by developing next-generation peptide medicines.
- Qualifications: Undergraduate degree in Chemistry or Biochemistry; experience in peptide synthesis preferred.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
This job is with AstraZeneca, an inclusive employer and a member of myGwork – the largest global platform for the LGBTQ+ business community.
AstraZeneca is a science-led, global biopharmaceutical company, with a focused portfolio in core therapies. At AstraZeneca we turn ideas into life changing medicines. We are committed to improving the health and lives of people across the globe, through our research and development platform, and a growing late-stage pipeline. Working in over 100 countries, we have strength in emerging markets, and our medicines are used by millions of patients and clinicians worldwide. Working here means being results-oriented and working together to make the impossible a reality. We are seeking a skilled and enthusiastic peptide chemist to join our dynamic Peptide Discovery team. Situated at the Discovery Centre in Cambridge, you will be part of a chemistry team developing the next generation of peptide medicines.
In this laboratory-based role, you will apply peptide chemistry knowledge to support our Early Discovery projects. We are looking for someone who has a good understanding and background in solid-phase synthesis to support delivery of our peptide portfolio. In this laboratory-based position, you will contribute to the design, synthesis, purification and analytical characterisation of peptides, working either independently or in close collaboration with other scientists. This role requires a background in peptide chemistry, problem-solving skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. As part of a growing team, you will benefit from numerous personal and professional development opportunities at AstraZeneca.
Key responsibilities:- Conduct laboratory-based experimental work in peptide chemistry to support project and platform objectives within the Peptide Discovery team.
- Design and synthesize peptides using solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) techniques, using both automated peptide synthesisers and manual methods.
- Cleavage of peptides from resin supports, purification by preparative HPLC and analysis using mass spectrometry techniques.
- Identify, troubleshoot and help resolve synthetic and analytical challenges.
- Document experimental work accurately and in a timely manner, maintaining appropriate records in line with company standards.
- Communicate results clearly through presentations, data summaries, reports and discussion with colleagues and project team members.
- Contribute to multi-disciplinary research and drug development and collaborate effectively within matrix teams, building productive working relationships.
- Maintain and develop scientific knowledge by keeping up to date with literature, methodologies and advances in peptide chemistry and related disciplines.
- Undergraduate qualification (or equivalent level of experience) in Chemistry, Biochemistry or relevant subject area.
- Good understanding of chemistry and peptide chemistry, with the ability to apply scientific principles, concepts and techniques in a defined area.
- Technical proficiency in solid-phase and/or peptide synthesis via manual syntheses or automated peptide synthesisers.
- Working knowledge of HPLC purification and mass spectrometry.
- Excellent record-keeping and strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Experience of working within a team environment and developing good working relationships with individuals across organisational boundaries.
- Masters degree, or equivalent lab-based experience.
- Previous experience within the pharmaceutical or peptide industry.
- Experience of working with peptide conjugates or bioconjugation techniques.
Join a science-led, digitally enabled environment where the pipeline is expanding and the pace is purposeful. You will work on programs that aim to redefine standards of care across major diseases, connecting evidence from early research through to real-world impact. Expect to be in the same room with unexpected teams-statisticians, clinicians, engineers and commercial leaders-aligning around clear patient outcomes and testing bold ideas with data. We value kindness alongside ambition, and we back curiosity with the tools to act: modern analytics, AI-enabled insights and the freedom to test and learn. Your expertise will influence pivotal decisions, accelerate launches and help us deliver on our ambition to lead in Cardiovascular, Renal, Metabolism, Respiratory and Immunology-bringing transformative medicines to patients sooner. Ready to make a significant impact? Apply now and join us on this exciting journey!
We encourage you to apply online before June 10.
Scientist - Peptide Chemistry employer: AstraZeneca
AstraZeneca is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and inclusive work culture, particularly in its vibrant Cambridge location. Employees benefit from competitive salaries, excellent employee benefits, and abundant opportunities for personal and professional growth within a science-led environment dedicated to transforming healthcare. Join a team where your contributions directly impact the development of life-changing medicines and where innovation thrives through diverse perspectives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Scientist - Peptide Chemistry
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the peptide chemistry field, especially those at AstraZeneca. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you an interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your solid-phase synthesis techniques. Be ready to discuss your past experiences and how they relate to the role. We want to see your passion for peptide chemistry shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your teamwork skills! AstraZeneca values collaboration, so be prepared to share examples of how you've worked effectively in teams. Highlighting your ability to build relationships will set you apart.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the AstraZeneca family. Let’s get you on board!
We think you need these skills to ace Scientist - Peptide Chemistry
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Chemistry Skills:Make sure to highlight your background in peptide chemistry and solid-phase synthesis. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your technical know-how!
Be Clear and Concise:When documenting your experience, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the point!
Tailor Your Application:Take a moment to customise your application for AstraZeneca. Mention specific projects or experiences that relate to our Peptide Discovery team. This shows us you’re genuinely interested and have done your homework!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure it reaches us directly and gets the attention it deserves. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at AstraZeneca
✨Know Your Peptides
Make sure you brush up on your peptide chemistry knowledge before the interview. Be prepared to discuss solid-phase synthesis techniques and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show that you're not just familiar with the theory but can also apply it practically.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
AstraZeneca values problem-solving abilities, so think of specific examples where you've identified and resolved challenges in your previous work. Whether it's troubleshooting a synthesis issue or optimising a purification process, having concrete examples ready will impress your interviewers.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since you'll need to document and present your findings, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Prepare to explain complex concepts in simple terms, as this will demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively with colleagues from various disciplines.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
AstraZeneca is all about teamwork, so be ready to discuss how you've successfully collaborated with others in the past. Highlight experiences where you've built productive relationships across different teams, as this will show that you can thrive in their collaborative environment.
