Scientist, Small Molecule Synthetic Organic Chemistry Research and Development

Excelsior Sciences of New York is transforming small molecule therapeutic drug discovery with the use of modular chemistry, to make better medicines fast. Excelsior's modular approach leverages smart blocks as the foundation of drug design and synthesis. Our smart blocks and proprietary methodologies enable chemistry that machines can do, rather than building machines that attempt to do chemistry as it is practiced today. Excelsior's operations are fully U.S.-based, as our automated approach enables us to onshore integrated drug discovery. We are seeking a motivated chemist with expertise in synthetic route design and development to support our automated small-molecule discovery platform. The ideal candidate will integrate principles of reaction optimization and high-throughput experimentation to develop robust and reproducible synthetic routes suitable for automation.

Key Responsibilities

• In collaboration with cross functional teams (automation engineers, analytical, biology and AI/ML) drive solutions for the development and optimization of reaction conditions for the automated synthesis of small molecules.
• Develop, troubleshoot, and optimize synthetic routes for generation of complex building blocks.
• Develop and optimize organic reactions, workups and SPE purifications for automation in HTS fashion.
• Optimize and test conditions to purify synthesized compounds using solid phase support, including metal scavenging, and develop LC conditions for final product purification.
• Help design and test protocols for automation system validations.
• Support continuous automated synthesis of small molecules on HTS fashion.
• Identify and design synthetic routes for complex building blocks. Guide, troubleshoot and oversee CROs on the synthesis of the compounds, as applicable.
• Support analytical chemists on chromatographic methods development and analytical equipment troubleshooting.
• Establish and maintain synthetic chemistry project timeline, and partner with functional leads to coordinate and drive activities.
• Communicate project status and issues to the management and other stakeholders through meetings and key documents.

Qualifications   

• PhD degree in Organic Chemistry. Postdoctoral experience is preferred but not mandatory.
• The ideal candidate should have a strong background on synthetic organic chemistry with experience in route scouting and reaction optimization.
• Strong foundation in transition metal-catalyzed organic reactions is a must.
• Medicinal chemistry and/or process development experience are an asset.
• Demonstrated ability to identify challenges and apply creative, data-driven problem-solving approaches to improve chemical processes and workflows
• Attention to experimental detail with a proactive mindset to ensure reproducibility, accuracy, and timely completion of deliverables.
• Ability to work both independently and cross functionally with analytical, automation and biology teams.
• Strong ability to deliver complex objectives under aggressive timelines in a rapidly changing environment.
• Ability to consistently generate quality data and experience in using quantitative LC and NMR.
• Well versed in analytical technology such as LC, NMR, LC-MS, KF, etc. SFC knowledge is a plus.
• Proficient in purification by column chromatography (manual and automated, such as Biotage or equivalent.
• Experience with continuous-flow chemistry or high throughput screening is a plus.
• Automation and AI/ML knowledge is a plus.

The salary range for this position is $95,000- $140,000 per year. The actual compensation offered will be based on factors such as relevant experience, education, and skills. In addition to base salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, paid time off and other benefits.

Excelsior Sciences of New York Is an equal opportunity employer (EEO).  We provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to religion, race, creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, alienage or citizenship status, national origin, age, marital status, pregnancy, disability, veteran or military status, predisposing genetic characteristics or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local law.

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