Scientist, Analytical Development

About the role

Medicines for All (M4ALL) at Virginia Commonwealth University is an entrepreneurial, impact-oriented institute founded with a commitment to improving access to medications across the globe by driving down production costs. We do this, in part, by developing low-cost, high-quality routes for the manufacturing of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Our work supports treatment for diseases such as COVID-19, HIV, TB and malaria.

Responsibilities

The Scientist, Analytical Development will play a key role at M4ALL in advancing our mission. They will be responsible for method development tasks while also executing routine analytical analyses in a fast-paced, time sensitive environment.

• Development and performance of analytical methods to support process chemistry development
• Maintenance of analytical instrumentation within the Institute laboratories
• Maintains detailed, accurate, and up-to-date documentation
• Delivers results in a high-paced and time-sensitive environment
• Develops hypothesis-driven, methodical experimental plans
• Supports development of new technical platforms that accelerate analytical method development and throughput

Program Management & Communications

• Demonstrates timely and proficient use of project management platforms
• Adheres to project timelines and deliverables
• Displays ownership of assigned work, including proactive planning, timely execution, and accountability for deliverables
• Escalates risks and deviations in a timely and appropriate manner

Interdepartmental & External Communications

• Independently prepares clear, accurate, and concise written internal project updates and reports
• Teams with Process Development colleagues to ensure timely, high-quality experimental data capture
• Prepares and delivers clear, accurate presentation-format (oral) updates to report findings, in-person or virtually, for internal audiences

Qualifications

We're seeking a dynamic individual with the perfect blend of technical competency and a passion for mission-driven work.

• BS (8+ yrs), MS (3+ yrs) or PhD (0+ yrs) in analytical chemistry is required
• Experience supporting process chemistry development in a pharmaceutical setting is a plus
• Hands-on experience with at least 1 of the following analytical instrumentation: HPLC, GC, SFC, MS, XRD, DSC/TGA, spectroscopy and other analytical instrumentation and associated software
• Autonomous and productive in performing lab work, including, but not limited to, solution and sample preparations, instrument maintenance, buffer preparations and data analysis, after appropriate training
• Method development experience with at least one technique (attention to detail)
• Demonstrated ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from all backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU
• Energy and passion to thrive in a start-up environment and to deliver on the mission of the Medicines for All Institute to improve access to affordable medicines
• Ability to work within a fast-paced environment and meet rigorous deadlines while demonstrating adaptability
• Alignment and adherence to M4ALL’s core values and purpose, to include an unwavering commitment to safety with the highest standards of honesty, respect, professionalism, integrity and scholarly ethics alignment with VCU/M4ALL values
• Effective communication skills adept at navigating and leveraging diverse perspectives to achieve common goals, promoting a culture of collaboration and team work within the work environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous laboratory research experience with a focus on chromatography
• Advanced proficiency in effectively managing time and prioritizing tasks
• Ability to be adaptable and smoothly transition between tasks throughout the day
• Ability to train lab personnel with various levels of experience, to include an aptitude for tailoring training methods to accommodate varying skill levels and ensuring comprehensive understanding among team members
• Ability to perform routine preventative maintenance and coordinate service visits
• Knowledge of working with manufacturers and suppliers