Associate Scientist, DNA Encoded Chemistry

Janssen Research & Development, LLC, a Johnson and Johnson Company, is hiring for an Associate Scientist, DNA Encoded Chemistry, located in San Diego, CA. #RND2021

We are seeking an experienced Bachelor's- or Master's -level chemist with excellent organic synthesis expertise to support Janssen's DNA-encoded library (DEL) platform. In this laboratory-based position, the successful candidate will work within our local DNA-encoded library chemistry group as well as with members of our broader DEL selection, DEL analytical, and DEL informatics teams to enable our full end-to-end DEL screen workflow. As part of the core DEL chemistry team, you will also work closely with Janssen project teams to interpret DEL screening results, coordinate hit resynthesis, and influence the early hit-to-lead trajectory from DEL screening campaigns. Strong people skills, and enthusiasm to learn new laboratory techniques and explore new scientific areas, and the ability to thrive in a multidisciplinary, goal-driven environment are key attributes.

Responsibilities:

• Maintaining a high level of productivity in the laboratory setting.
• Working with autonomy to design experiments, interpret data, and propose next steps.
• Developing and conducting aqueous chemical reactions on DNA-small molecule conjugates.
• Preparing DNA-encoded small molecules through DNA ligation and other molecular biology techniques.
• Purifying DNA conjugates by HPLC and other purification techniques.
• Analyzing DNA-chemical conjugate compositions through mass spectrometry, electrophoresis and DNA quantitation methods.
• Sourcing of materials required for DEL productions.
• Synthesizing DEL hits while influenced by an understanding of medicinal chemistry principles and desirable hit physicochemical properties.
• Coordinating DEL core and hit resynthesis with external synthetic resources.
• Collaboratively supporting the advancement of compounds from initial identification in DEL selection data, hit resynthesis, and early hit expansion.
• Working on novel, testable hypotheses to enable clear decision-making.
• Contributing to scientific strategies and goals within a team setting.
• Presenting data and reports on project status at individual and group meetings.
• Generating data for and serving as co-author on research published in peer-reviewed journals and presenting work at scientific conferences.

Qualifications

• A Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry/Biochemistry or related science with 3 - 6 years of medicinal chemistry industry experience OR a master's degree in organic or medicinal chemistry with 2 - 4 years of medicinal chemistry industry experience is required.
• Experience in DNA-encoded chemistry, combinatorial chemistry, and/or DNA molecular biology techniques is not required but strongly preferred.
• A strong track record of achievement in synthetic chemistry, with a deep knowledge of modern synthetic, analytical techniques is required.
• Intellectual curiosity to improve established and explore new laboratory workflows is required.
• A proven track record of scientific contributions including peer-reviewed publications, patents, and presentations is preferred.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including preparation of presentations, are required.

Johnson & Johnson is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

Primary Location
United States-California-San Diego-3210 Merryfield Row
Organization
Janssen Research & Development, LLC (6084)
Job Function
R&D
Requisition ID
2105974896W