Job Description

Background

Autifony is a cutting-edge biotech company dedicated to developing new medicines to treat CNS disorders by deploying its pioneering ion channel drug discovery platform. Since its formation in 2011, Autifony has delivered multiple candidate molecules into clinical development. The Company's clinical pipeline includes Kv3 modulators for Schizophrenia, Fragile X and rare epilepsy syndromes. Autifony's early-stage pipeline contains a range of ligand- and voltage-gated channels, including a particular interest in lysosomal targets, that are aligned with CNS indications such as epilepsy, neurodegeneration (Parkinson's, Alzheimer's disease), vascular dementia and lysosomal storage disorders.

Autifony is based at the Stevenage Bioscience Catalyst in the UK (www.autifony.com).

Looking to expand its medicinal chemistry team, Autifony is seeking a self-motivated, creative, and enthusiastic individual to become part of a dynamic preclinical R&D group.

This is a fixed term one year contract.

SENIOR MEDICINAL CHEMIST

An experienced medicinal chemist with a strong chemistry background, analytical ability, and creative problem-solving skills. Candidates will have extensive experience of small molecule drug discovery and a proven track record in preclinical and early-stage drug development. The successful candidate will be expected to mentor junior chemists and will be expected to design, synthesize and characterize new chemical entities with specific properties and structural features targeted to CNS diseases.

Essential Skills

Deep knowledge of synthetic and medicinal chemistry principles Strong ability to perform retrosynthetic analysis and design appropriate synthetic routes Ability to plan and execute multiple synthetic transformations independently Utilises state-of-the-art knowledge to optimize physicochemical properties, develop structure-activity relationships (SAR), and design novel compounds Works effectively in a team environment and is able to mentor and lead junior chemists Interacts with cross-functional teams internally and externally to identify challenges and develop solutions Keeps good records and documentation and follows standard operating procedures Contributes to patent strategy to protect compound-related intellectual property

Experience

Extensive experience of small molecule drug discovery in a Pharmaceutical, Biotech or University environment Strong knowledge and hands-on experience of small molecule chemistry Good familiarity with safe working practices and COSHH guidelines Knowledge of neuropharmacology and DMPK principles would be an advantage Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Qualifications:

PhD in a relevant chemistry discipline with a minimum of 3 years' relevant experience Degree in a relevant chemistry discipline with a minimum of 6 years' relevant experience

Application Process:

For full consideration, please send a cover letter containing information regarding your research interests and a CV, to: info@autifony.com

Job Types: Full-time, Fixed term contract

Additional pay:

Performance bonus
Benefits:

Company pension Free parking On-site parking
Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Ability to commute/relocate:

Stevenage: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Education:

Bachelor's (preferred)
Work authorisation:

United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person