Sr. Scientist, Peptide & Oligonucleotide API Development

Neurocrine Biosciences • San Diego, CA

2d

About The Position

We are seeking a highly motivated Scientist to join the API Development group within CMC. In this critical role, you will operate at the interface of synthetic chemistry and chemical biology, applying your expertise in chemical synthesis and conjugation to create innovative strategies and execution of process development and optimization for novel hybrid therapeutics and emerging modalities. The successful candidate will contribute to the development of peptide and oligonucleotide synthetic processes, as well as complexation to large-molecule therapeutics, including antibody/Fc-peptide and oligonucleotide conjugates across multiple therapeutic areas. You will lead and support the development, scale-up, and management of manufacturing and purification processes while working closely with internal CMC and cross-functional teams and external CDMOs to ensure high-quality process innovation and timely API delivery. This role also includes project management responsibilities within CMC and Chemical Development programs, with opportunities to lead workstreams or projects. Your expertise in peptide and oligonucleotide process development will play a key role in advancing Neurocrine’s pipeline.

Requirements

• PhD in Chemistry with relevant industry or postdoctoral experience OR MS in Chemistry with 3+ years of relevant pharmaceutical/process development experience OR BS/BA in Chemistry with 5+ years of relevant experience, including API manufacturing
• Proven experience in process development, optimization, and scale-up of peptide and/or oligonucleotide synthesis from milligram/gram scale to multi-kilogram scale
• Strong expertise in purification strategies, including reverse-phase, ion-exchange, and/or affinity chromatography
• Hands-on experience in bioconjugation chemistry and downstream purification, including generation and characterization of conjugates
• Solid understanding of cGMP requirements for drug substance development
• Ability to serve as a technical liaison across discovery, preclinical, quality, regulatory, and supply chain teams
• Strong laboratory skills and experience with a wide range of scientific equipment and tools
• Excellent analytical, organizational, communication, and presentation skills
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines with accuracy and efficiency
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams

Nice To Haves

• Experience in peptide/oligonucleotide CMC development and GMP manufacturing preferred

Responsibilities

• Design and execute laboratory experiments to optimize and characterize peptide and oligonucleotide chemistries, including solid-phase, liquid-phase, and hybrid synthesis approaches
• Develop and optimize bioconjugation processes and downstream purification strategies for peptide and oligonucleotide-based therapeutics
• Advance synthetic processes using novel chemistry and emerging technologies
• Manage external CDMOs supporting process development and GLP/GMP manufacturing of development candidates
• Clearly communicate scientific rationale, results, and interpretations in project, team, and departmental settings, contributing to strategic decision-making
• Support regulatory submissions for development candidates
• Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure successful technology transfer from laboratory to manufacturing
• Other duties assigned as required

Benefits

• Benefits offered include a retirement savings plan (with company match), paid vacation, holiday and personal days, paid caregiver/parental and medical leave, and health benefits to include medical, prescription drug, dental and vision coverage in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees