Synthetic Biochemistry Scientist

Job description

Details:

GSK is seeking to take advantage of the greater availability of many enzyme types and the use of synthetic biology for pathway construction as a cost effective tool for synthesising small molecules. Because biocatalysis increasingly plays a key role in the synthesis of small molecules it is a skill that is highly prized by development teams around the world. If you are interested in a career as a bioorganic chemist, there can be few better environments in which to pursue your ambitions than GSK.
The Synthetic Biochemistry team at GSK is a cross-functional, cross-divisional, global team operating across both the R&D and manufacturing organisations. It enables the use of biocatalysis or fermentations for the synthesis of small molecules.

We are currently seeking an experienced postgraduate scientists to work within the Product Development (R&D) organisation. The position will involve working within a multidisciplinary environment where you will be encouraged to expand your technical knowledge through a combination of courses, conferences and on-the-job experience. At GSK we are fully committed to individual career development to ensure that you progress to your own personal career goals.

For this position you should possess good communication skills, ability to work in a team and a working knowledge of GMP would also be an advantage.

In this role, you will be involved in the design of new syntheses to potential drugs, capable of operation in full scale manufacture; the development of biocatalytic processes with regard to safety, economy, quality, health and environmental impact to ensure reproducibility and reliability. Part of your responsibilities will also be to oversee the transfer of processes from the laboratory to the pilot plant and from the pilot plant to worldwide manufacturing facilities. You should have a synthetic chemistry background with extensive knowledge in the use of enzymes as a synthetic tool. Some expertise in the use of whole cell mediated transformations and an awareness of modern synthetic biology and enzyme expression systems would also be an advantage.

Closing date for applications: 18th of October 2016

When applying for this role, please use the 'cover letter' of the on-line application 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.

If requiring an adjustment for a disability, once selected for Interview you may contact ************@*******.**

Thank you for your interest in this opportunity.

*LI-GSK

Contact information:

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

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Desired profile

Basic qualifications:

You will have a PhD in organic chemistry, or equivalent experience. You will have a proven track record of design and development of new synthetic routes and this would include the use of biocatalytic steps, experience of working in a cross-disciplinary environment, the ability to lead and drive project work and strong verbal and written communications skills.

Preferred qualifications:

Ideally you will have at least 2 years of industrial or post-doctoral experience working specifically with biotransformations. You will possess a good appreciation of molecular biology and enzyme expression systems within the field of biocatalysis (especially with respect to enzyme expression systems) and an appreciation of sustainability / green chemistry.