SCIENTIST I, CHEMISTRY

Job Code C-0803

CovX is a division of Pfizer’s Biotherapeutic and Bioinnovation Center located in San Diego.  Since its founding, CovX has made advances toward building a portfolio of clinical candidates.  We use our proprietary technology to rapidly discover and develop long-acting biological therapeutics.  The CovX technology unites the therapeutic attractiveness of peptides with the beneficial properties of antibodies, resulting in a new biopharmaceutical called a CovX-Body.  The highly flexible nature of our technology enables us to identify high-value biological targets, efficiently create CovX-Bodies, and expeditiously move candidates to pre-clinical development and clinical evaluation.

As a member of the Chemistry team, this position requires a broad base of skills in the synthesis, purification and analysis of peptides and organic compounds.  Major responsibilities will include: 

• Synthesize and characterize peptides, modified peptides and small molecule drug candidates to support discover and development projects
• Design and Optimize drug candidates
• Plan and execute synthetic routes to deliver target molecules within expected timelines to support preclinical programs
• Develop methods for analysis and characterization of peptides and small molecules
• Generate reports and regularly communicate results to the chemistry team and multidisciplinary teams as required
• Assist in maintaining lab instrumentation and perform other lab duties as assigned
• Synthesize peptides and derivatized peptides
• Maintain scientific expertise through ongoing education
• Assist in synthesis and purification for scale-up activities to support development programs
• Travel as required

Job Qualifications

• PhD in synthetic organic chemistry with 0- 4 years of relevant experience in biotechnology or MS in the same field with up to 5-10 years of relevant industrial experience
• Prior experience with structure or pharmacophore based drug designed and familiarity with design of lead molecules and their modification is desirable
• Extensive laboratory experience in the characterization and purification of peptides and organic compounds
• Comprehensive knowledge of purification and separation techniques and related hardware, especially HPLC, and maintenance/trouble-shooting knowledge of automated LC/LC-MS systems
• Excellent skills in practical organic synthesis required and synthesis experience in peptide chemistry desired
• Proven ability to conduct self-directed research and development
• Synthesis experience in peptide chemistry and in the use of automated synthesizers
• Demonstrated talent for problem-solving, effective communication skills and a thorough scientific approach
• Solid written and oral communication skills, enthusiasm, integrity, self-motivation, strong interpersonal skills, and ability to act as a team player are necessary

CovX offers exciting careers for passionate, creative people who thrive on challenge and are motivated by the opportunity to have a big impact. We also provide competitive salaries and extensive benefits, including health, dental, vision, life insurance, and a 401(k) savings plan.  We are an equal opportunity employer M/F/D/V.  Interested candidates should send their resume to jobs@covx.com. Please ensure job code C-0803 is included in the subject line.

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