Molecular Imaging Radiochemist

Job description

Your Responsibilities :
GSK's Clinical Imaging group develops and applies innovative imaging solutions to support the R&D drug pipeline. Imaging demands are broad, in terms of application areas (e.g. oncology, immuno-inflammation and neurosciences) and solutions are provided by many modalities (e.g. PET, MRI, optical). Molecular imaging is a core platform enabling us to interrogate biodistribution of and protein target engagement by new drug candidates as well as disease processes. To enable us to develop and apply complex molecular imaging techniques an imaging scientist is needed with expertise in radiochemistry applied in the drug development setting. This role will complement our existing internal expertise and our external network to enable the Clinical Imaging team to be reactive to support emerging needs and longer-term imaging plans.

GSK conducts PET radiochemistry for clinical studies through external academic and commercial partnerships. This model of working allows the Clinical Imaging team to access a broad range of expertise in the PET radiochemistry environment and ensures methods are developed at centres able to facilitate clinical translation at the correct time for our clinical programmes. The role will ensure strong engagement with our external network to deliver molecular imaging solutions.

The role will ensure that the strong internal partnerships required in the field of radiochemistry are developed and maintained. By working with clinical drug discovery matrix teams to understand any molecular imaging needs, the Molecular Imaging Chemist would then partner with GSK chemists to develop solutions with external experts. Partnerships with GSK chemists are particularly crucial, accessing the required expertise from across the company and accessing libraries of molecules to generate a successful radiochemistry outcome. The demand for radiochemistry input is increasing significantly, driven by a desire to deliver innovative, decision-making clinical studies.

This role is offered as a part time position (3.5 days per week).

Key Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
• Co-ordinating and leading molecular imaging radiolabelling programs for GSK asset and non-asset molecules and non-GSK molecules at external facilities for use in preclinical and clinical studies.
• Responsible for liaising with project teams across the GSK Research organisation to provide expert guidance in relation to their required molecular imaging solution(s).
• Oversee the GMP implementation and validation of PET radiotracers for clinical use at external facilities, along with associated activities that go alongside this process (e.g. sourcing GMP-grade precursors).
• Support the processes for identifying and auditing external PET centres for GMP radiochemistry and clinical use.
• Responsible for identifying and addressing gaps in PET radiochemical methodologies aligned to molecular imaging projects.
• Responsible for the supervision and project co-ordination of at least one external radiochemist embedded within an expert academic centre (London, UK).
• Develop strong engagement with all our academic and commercial molecular imaging partners to identify new scientific opportunities for GSK. Develop new external alliances as required.
• Establish links with the GSK chemistry and drug discovery/development communities.
• Attend relevant scientific conferences to ensure the Clinical Imaging team maintains awareness of cutting edge science within the radiochemistry field.
• Assume an educational role in molecular imaging, producing relevant PowerPoint slide decks and presenting basic and in-depth seminars both internally at GSK as well as externally.

CLOSING DATE for applications: Friday 26th April (COB)

Please take a copy of the Job Description, as this will not be available post closure of the advert.

When applying for this role, please use the ‘cover letter' of the online application or your CV to describe how you meet the competencies for this role, as outlined in the job requirements above. The information that you have provided in your cover letter and CV will be used to assess your application.

During the course of your application you will be requested to complete voluntary information which will be used in monitoring the effectiveness of our equality and diversity policies. Your information will be treated as confidential and will not be used in any part of the selection process. If you require a reasonable adjustment to the application / selection process to enable you to demonstrate your ability to perform the job requirements please contact 0808 234 4391. This will help us to understand any modifications we may need to make to support you throughout our selection process.
*LI-GSK

Why You?

Basic qualifications:
• PhD in Radiochemistry
• Extensive experience in small molecule and peptide molecular imaging chemistry and radiochemistry applied in industry, with substantial experience in PET chemistry and radiochemistry.

Preferred qualifications:
• Fluent in the use of the following software platforms:
o SciFinder (CAS Solutions) to find relevant, up-to-date, peer-reviewed and patent literature on molecular imaging chemistry, radiochemistry and methodologies;
o Helium for Excel (Ceiba Solutions Inc.) to retrieve proprietary molecular structure and biological activity information from databases, including towards the discovery of PET radioligand candidates.

Why GSK? :
GlaxoSmithKline is a science-led global healthcare company that researches and develops a broad range of innovative medicines and brands. We discover, make and market life-enhancing products that are used by millions of people around the world, helping them to do more, feel better and live longer. We have 3 primary areas of business in pharmaceuticals, vaccines and consumer healthcare. We have offices in more than 115 countries, major research centers in the UK, USA, Spain, Belgium and China and an extensive manufacturing network with 87 sites globally. Our three strategic priorities are to grow a diversified global business, deliver products of value, and to simplify our operating model.

Contact information:
You may apply for this position online by selecting the Apply now button.

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