Postdoctoral Scholar, ADC Discovery Chemistry

Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine • Spring House, PA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Postdoctoral Scholar, ADC Discovery Chemistry will conduct independent research focused on the discovery and optimization of next‑generation mechanisms for antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs). This role will integrate medicinal chemistry, synthetic chemistry, and bioconjugation to translate novel linker-payload constructs into biologically validated ADCs.

Requirements

• A PhD in Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, Chemical Biology, or a related field is required.
• Extensive experience and record of accomplishments in organic and/or medicinal chemistry, including evidence of complex, multistep syntheses.
• Ability to design experiments independently, interpret complex datasets, and draw scientifically sound conclusions.
• Strong project management skills and the ability to independently prioritize tasks in a complex, fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Effective collaboration skills and comfort working in cross-functional, multidisciplinary research teams.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present scientific findings clearly to diverse audiences.

Nice To Haves

• Prior research experience in ADCs, linker-payload chemistry, or targeted drug delivery.
• Experience with bioconjugation chemistry and ADC characterization (e.g., DAR analysis, SEC, HIC).
• Strong understanding of drug-like physicochemical properties and their effect on biological performance.

Responsibilities

• Design, synthesis, and bioconjugation of novel linker-payload constructs.
• Applying medicinal chemistry principles to define structure-activity relationships and progress linker-payloads through DMTA cycles.
• Organizing scientific findings into clear summaries and communicate them to the broader ADC Discovery team.
• Participating in required trainings, development activities, internal meetings, and scientific symposia.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree