Scientist - Peptide Chemistry

Scientist - Peptide Chemistry

Location: Cambridge, UK

Salary: Competitive + Excellent Employee Benefits!

AstraZeneca is a science led, global biopharmaceutical company with a focused portfolio in core therapies. We are committed to improving the health and lives of people worldwide through our research and development platform and a growing late stage pipeline.

We are seeking a skilled and enthusiastic peptide chemist to join our dynamic Peptide Discovery team at the Discovery Centre in Cambridge. You will be part of a chemistry team developing the next generation of peptide medicines.

In this laboratory based role, you will apply peptide chemistry knowledge to support our Early Discovery projects. You will support the design, synthesis, purification, and analytical characterization of peptides, working independently or in close collaboration with other scientists.

This role requires a background in peptide chemistry, problem solving skills, and the ability to work in a fast paced, collaborative environment. You will benefit from numerous personal and professional development opportunities at AstraZeneca.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct experimental work in peptide chemistry to support project and platform objectives within the Peptide Discovery team.
• Design and synthesize peptides using solid phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) techniques, employing both automated peptide synthesizers and manual methods.
• Cleave peptides from resin supports, purify by preparative HPLC, and analyze using mass spectrometry.
• Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve synthetic and analytical challenges.
• Document experimental work accurately and timely, maintaining records in line with company standards.
• Communicate results clearly through presentations, data summaries, reports, and discussions with colleagues and project team members.
• Collaborate effectively within matrix teams, building productive working relationships.
• Maintain and develop scientific knowledge by keeping up to date with literature, methodologies, and advances in peptide chemistry and related disciplines.

Essential Experience and Skills

• Undergraduate qualification (or equivalent) in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a relevant subject area.
• Good understanding of chemistry and peptide chemistry, with the ability to apply scientific principles, concepts, and techniques in a defined area.
• Technical proficiency in solid phase and/or peptide synthesis via manual syntheses or automated peptide synthesizers.
• Working knowledge of HPLC purification and mass spectrometry.
• Excellent record keeping and strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience working within a team environment and developing good working relationships across organisational boundaries.

Desirable Experience and Skills

• Master's degree or equivalent lab based experience.
• Previous experience within the pharmaceutical or peptide industry.
• Experience with peptide conjugates or bioconjugation techniques.

Benefits

Join a science led, digitally enabled environment where the pipeline is expanding and the pace is purposeful. You will work on programmes that aim to redefine standards of care across major diseases, connecting evidence from early research through to real world impact. Our culture values kindness alongside ambition, and we support curiosity with modern analytics, AI enabled insights, and the freedom to test and learn.

Ready to make a significant impact? Apply online at our careers portal.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of characteristics. We offer reasonable adjustments and accommodations. If you need any assistance, please complete the section in the application form.