Scientist (Peptidomimetic Synthesis), R&D Chemistry

We are currently seeking a lab-centric peptide chemist to join the R&D (Research & Development) Chemistry group. In this position, they will play a key role in Regeneron’s peptidomimetic antibody-conjugate drug discovery capabilities to enable seamless combination with the company’s existing expertise in biologics and novel genetic medicines. The candidate will drive the synthesis and discovery of peptidomimetic payloads and linker payloads for antibody conjugate drug therapeutics across diverse research areas. Cultural fit with the Regeneron cross-functional teams will be a key driver for success. The R&D Chemistry team is primarily composed of synthetic organic, medicinal chemistry and bioconjugation scientists that work in a highly collaborative environment with other technology, biology and therapeutic area groups. Successful candidates will have a peptidomimetic/synthetic organic/medicinal chemistry background and will require peptidomimetic synthesis, discovery and SAR (structure-activity relationship) optimization expertise as well as linker-payload synthesis experience. A firm understanding and grasp of chemical biology strategies and the importance of applying both chemical and biological solutions to solve problems in drug discovery will be key. Small molecule synthesis and drug discovery/SAR experience as well as knowledge in the latest and most advanced peptide synthesis techniques, platforms, and strategies is desired. We expect they will act as an inspiring and motivating colleague, effective communicator, and strong project team collaborator to help develop novel antibody-conjugated peptidomimetic therapeutics. The successful candidate will also participate in problem solving related to synthesis, medicinal chemistry, bioconjugation and optimal in vitro and in vivo properties leading to development candidates.

Build our future together:

• Actively participate and collaborate in the day-to-day activities of the R&D Chemistry Peptidomimetic group.
• Perform medicinal chemistry inspired and SAR-driven synthesis of novel peptidomimetic drug modality payloads/linker payloads, using modern peptide synthesizer, isolation, and characterization instrumentation and techniques
• Troubleshoot and optimize peptide potency and stability using standard peptide-based principles (e.g., Ala scans), non-natural amino acid incorporation, alpha-Me/N-Me peptide backbone modifications, and other medicinal chemistry strategies that are guided by in vitro assays, plasma/serum stability, and met ID data.
• Participate in the R&D Chemistry Peptidomimetic efforts on internal/external project teams, and demonstrate the ability to multi-task and parallel process to add to our continuous pipeline of Regeneron peptidomimetic conjugates.
• Identify new strategies and technologies (e.g., peptidomimetic synthesis and design) to improve on existing Regeneron platforms for pursuing novel synthesis of peptidomimetic drug modality conjugates
• Actively participate in departmental, cross-functional, leadership, and external meetings to contribute expertise and to represent the vision of the R&D Chemistry Peptidomimetic group.
• Interact broadly and collaboratively with other Regeneron groups, forging relationships and active collaborations.

Discover your role:

• You are passionate and enthusiastic about the promise of peptidomimetic conjugated, antibody-targeted therapeutics and appreciate the challenges and opportunities of drug delivery and molecular targeting.
• You enjoy applying and combining traditional methods and novel technologies to develop solutions for synthesis, bioconjugation and drug discovery.
• You are comfortable working in a cross-functional role and excel as part of a diverse team where egos are checked at the door.
• You want to provide meaningful contributions to the development of an organizational culture that supports growth and development of its people and capabilities to drive forward the Regeneron pipeline.
• You prefer to work in an organization that is modality agnostic, letting the data determine the best course forward.

This role requires:

• Bachelor’s degree required, Master’s degree preferred in peptide/peptidomimetic and/or synthetic organic chemistry (or related)
• Extensive hands-on experience of the synthesis and reaction troubleshooting of peptidomimetics, extensive experience running modern synthesis/isolation/characterization equipment and instrumentation
• Expertise in modern methods of peptidomimetic synthesis and analytical characterization, and a minimum of 5-10 years of industry experience. A track record of success in the field of either peptidomimetics or small molecules is required.

Salary Range (annually)