Scientist to Senior Scientist, Process Development

SUMMARY

The Scientist will conduct process development for oligonucleotide pipeline drugs in Brii's Shanghai laboratory. This individual will be responsible for developing, analyzing and optimizing oligonucleotide synthesis and purification, particularly for novel chemical structures to support internal drug candidates and platform technologies. The Scientist will work closely with early discovery oligo chemistry team members so that novel chemistry can be smoothly and efficiently transitioned to CMC IND-enabling processes.  This individual will work both independently and within a team to support internal work as well as that conducted at contract development and manufacturing organizations (CDMOs) and CROs.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop processes for manufacturing oligonucleotides with novel chemistry and functionality. In particular, focus on enzymatic ligation process development for complex oligo structures. Optimize processes to improve product quality, yield and manufacturability. Compare results with CDMO(s), troubleshoot issues, and collaborate to optimize processes as they are scaled up for GMP manufacturing at the CDMO.
• Work with team to build Brii oligo platform and in house intellectual property.
• Analyze materials in collaboration with Brii scientists and report results.  Hands on work in laboratory is expected.
• Maintain lab safety and equipment in good condition.
• Remain current with latest technology and methods for oligonucleotides and share information across company to ensure Brii’s leadership in area.
• Work closely with laboratory team members to optimize work flow and push forward discovery and early development drug candidates and platforms.
• Provide oversight and support to outside CDMOs as needed to supplement in house activities.
• Provide insight on experimental results and communicate that perspective as well as results to team members.
• Plan experiments and execute with good documentation practice including comprehensive record keeping in the Company Electronic Laboratory Notebook
• Collaborate with broader Tech Ops and Discovery teams, providing process development oligo expertise to programs.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum B.S. in Chemistry, Biology, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, Pharmaceutical Science, or related scientific disciplines with minimum 3 years of experience in the Pharmaceutical or Biotech industry with a focus on oligonucleotide CMC.
• Hands-on academic or industry experience in oligonucleotide drug substance process development; enzymatic ligation experience including enzyme selection, ligation condition optimization and process development is desirable.
• Familiarity with oligonucleotide analysis and characterization.
• Ability to effectively work independently in a team environment with the internal department including but not limited to the Discovery, Technical Operations and Quality Assurance Department in a fast-paced collaborative environment.
• Other skills required:

• Strong laboratory skills and attention to detail and ability to independently develop methodology.
• Good documentation skills including written English, including drafting protocols, reports and data tables.
• Ability to work in a strong internal culture designed around collaboration, feedback, motivation, and accountability.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work in fast pace, multi-tasking team environment while meeting deadlines.
• Ability to summarize complex technical information into a concise report, focused on key results.