Research Scientist/Bioconjugation Chemist

Founded in 1975, IDT Australia is a publicly-listed Australian pharmaceutical developer and manufacturer, based in Boronia Victoria. Partnering with pharmaceutical leaders IDT specialises in the development and the commercial manufacture of high potency active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) and finished drug products for local and international markets.

At IDT we value Ownership & Accountability, Trust & Integrity, Adaptability, Teamwork & Collaboration, Innovation & Problem Solving.

We are seeking a highly specialised Research Scientist/Bioconjugation Chemist to join our R&D team based at our Boronia site.

The Research Scientist/Bioconjugation Chemist will undertake development work on new process and product introduction / development opportunities being undertaken by IDT. The role is focused on deliverance of agreed project milestones to client and internal project commitments in a timely manner.

The scope of projects may include development of new products, process development of investigational materials intended for clinical trials or development of new chemical entities or processes and any other task as directed by the R&D Manager (eg support of technical investigations, operational support or maintenance of laboratory chemical inventories).

The role is a contributor to IDTs success, undertaking project tasks as a chemical or formulation SME, whilst leading bioconjugation projects. The Bioconjugation Chemist works within the R&D department developing processes that transition to operations whilst also providing subject matter expertise to all internal and external stakeholders; ensuring effective introduction and development of new bioconjugation processes and products whilst maintaining high levels of scientific rigour.

 Background and experience:

·         PhD in chemistry, pharmaceutical or biotech related sciences + 5 years industry experience is preferred qualification.

·         5+ years’ experience in research and development focusing on protein bioconjugation and the development of ADCs. High level synthetic organic or medicinal chemistry with formal drug development experience will be well regarded.

· Strong understanding of GMP principles as applied to biopharmaceutical/ pharmaceutical manufacture.

·        Strong pharmaceutical experience and sound understanding of formulation and Quality by Design principles.

·   Exceptional scientific rigour and curiosity for effective initiation of developmental projects and efficient experimental design using sound GLP practices

·         Strong ability to write reports and experimental design layout.

·        Sound communication skills to present project work and results and partner with internal and external stakeholders and clients. 

·         Personal organisation, project management skills and ability to effectively scope and deliver work on time.

 Key responsibilities include:

a)      Conduct research and development activities to investigate and solve complex problems, as directed by the R&D Manager.

b)        Contribute to all aspects of product process development, including raw material evaluation, development of new API and formulation processes on small scale, identifying critical process parameters from obtained data, writing batch documentation (including input into applicable safety assessments) and overseeing handover of processes to MS&T.

c)      Contribute to technical input on customer proposals and quotes as requested by the Business Development (through R&D Manager).

d)      Identify, communicate and contribute to the evaluation of new research opportunities and work with R&D Manager to progress client opportunities or internal development programs.

e)       Work with R&D Manager to understand timelines associated with customer commitments and the IDT production schedule.

f)          Utilise good experimental design to ensure efficient use of resources and materials.

g)      Contribute to, where relevant, the investigation and resolution of issues that could prevent delivery to customer time, cost or quality expectations.

h)        Keep an accurate and dated record of all activities so that summaries can be prepared of hours worked against specific projects and defined activities.

i)          Understand and follow IDT’s Quality Policy and report any unexpected results outside established limits to the R&D Manager as per relevant SOPs.

j)          Develop and maintain technical relationships with industry networks to raise the organisation's technical profile.

k)         Organise own work to ensure delivery of R&D commitments.

l)          Maintain laboratory records to ensure an auditable record of development, compliant with IDT’s procedures and Quality System.

m)      Ensure compliance to appropriate levels of GLP, GCP or GMP as required by the specific project and as directed by the R&D Manager.

n)        In conjunction with the R&D Manager, raise and implement practical and appropriate continuous improvement initiatives.

• Looking for candidates available to work:
  • Monday: Morning, Afternoon
  • Tuesday: Morning, Afternoon
  • Wednesday: Morning, Afternoon
  • Thursday: Morning, Afternoon
  • Friday: Morning, Afternoon
• More than 4 years of relevant work experience required for this role
• Work visa can be provided for this role
• Expected start date for role: 01 April 2024
• Expected salary: $85,000 - $90,000 per year