Senior/principal Scientist - mass spectrometry of advanced synthetic modalities

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Within Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine, we are recruiting a Senior/Principal Scientist with strong skills in High-resolution mass spectrometry – based structure elucidation and an emphasis on complex synthetic modalities, such as antibody-drug conjugates and targeted lipid nanoparticles (tLNPs). 

Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine develops treatments that improve the health and lifestyles of people worldwide. Our development areas encompass novel targets in neurologic disorders, gastroenterology, oncology, infectious disease, diabetes, hematology, metabolic disorders, immunologic disorders, pulmonary hypertension and reproductive medicine. The successful candidate will be employed in our Analytical Development (AD) organization, responsible for Global Therapeutics Development and Supply (TDS) Organization. 

The (Senior) Scientist will join the Advanced Materials Characterization and Investigations (AMCI) group within AD. AMCI is an international and diverse, multidisciplinary team of scientists leading advanced characterization and mechanistical understanding of our drug substances and drug products. We are also leading analytical investigations for commercial and R&D portfolio.  

Within AMCI, the Advanced Molecular Analysis (AMA) team is a group of analytical centers of excellence in structure elucidation (by high-resolution mass spectrometry and NMR), organic and inorganic trace analysis, polymer characterization, and Antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), oligonucleotide & peptide analytics as well as analytical support for the development tLNPs 

We are currently seeking a skilled and enthusiastic Scientist with a strong background in High-resolution mass spectrometry on diverse therapeutic modalities to strengthen our AMA team. In this team, you will play a crucial role the identification of process impurities and degradation products of our diversifying synthetic molecule portfolio. This laboratory-based position offers you the opportunity to lead the development, implementation, and execution of innovative analytical test methods for several types of complex, synthetics active pharmaceutical ingredients like (cyclic) peptides, oligonucleotides, ADCs as well as tLNP constituents (mAbs, mRNA lipids,…). In this role, you will also collaborate closely with internal and external specialists to conduct thorough root-cause investigations and explore innovative approaches for optimal analyses and characterization. If you are passionate about pushing the boundaries of analytical techniques and eager to make a significant impact in the field, we would love to hear from you! 

The position is based in Antwerp (Beerse), Belgium.  

Key Responsibilities: 

• Design and develop advanced (High Resolution) Mass Spectrometry-based methods for structure elucidation of diverse active pharmaceutical ingredients, with an emphasis on complex pharmaceutical modalities like ADCs and targeted lipid nanoparticle (tLNPs) components. 

• Take the lead in the development of a comprehensive analytical toolbox for characterization of complex active pharmaceutical ingredients. 

• Apply state-of-the art scientific knowledge to ensure high quality of the delivered results. 

• Work in a multidisciplinary team of scientists and show the ability to learn and explore new analytical techniques. 

• Maintain a safe work environment in compliance with all applicable environmental, health, regulatory requirements, GMP and safety regulations. 

• Independently troubleshoot diverse mass spectrometers.  

• Lead comprehensive root cause investigations related to MS-based structure elucidation of compounds within our R&D and commercial portfolio. 

• Stay abreast with scientific knowledge to guarantee the delivery of high-quality results, strengthening our position as leaders in mass spectrometry-based structure elucidation. 

• Initiate and lead partnerships with universities and other research institutions to expand our external innovation network, fostering collaboration that enhances our capabilities and expertise. 

Qualifications 

• A PhD degree in analytical chemistry or related field with a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience; or a master’s degree in related science with a minimum of 10 years of experience. Working experience in pharmaceutical R&D is an asset. 

• Proven in-depth and hands-on expertise in high-resolution mass spectrometry is essential for this role, particularly with a focus on MS-based structure elucidation of complex synthetic modalities  

• Working experience with mass spectrometry of lipid nanoparticles, (cyclic) peptides, oligonucleotides and/or ADCs is a clear advantage. 

• Experience with coding, programming and the use of in silico tools to assist structure elucidation is a plus. 

• Hands-on experience with advanced hyphenated separation technology such as capillary electrophoresis (CE) or multidimensional liquid chromatography is an asset. 

• Knowledge of regulatory frameworks (e.g., ICH, EMA, FDA) and GMP guidelines, particularly concerning validation requirements, is an advantage. 

• Excellent English communication skills, both written and spoken, allowing for effective scientific discussions and collaboration. 

Our offer  

An exciting position in an international and dynamic environment with continuous learning and growth opportunities! An attractive remuneration package with additional benefit packages (for example hospital insurance, and other health care incentives if applicable). An inclusive team environment where diversity and different opinions are respected and valued, and the importance of a good work-life balance is recognized.