SENIOR) ASSOCIATE SCIENTIST PARENTERALS & LIQUIDS DEVELOPMENT

Caring for the world… one person at a time” … inspires and unites the people of Johnson & Johnson.
We embrace research and science - bringing innovative ideas, products and services to advance the health and well-being of people.
Employees of the Johnson & Johnson Family of Companies work with partners in health care to touch the lives of over a billion people every day, throughout the world.
This culture of caring is the focus of our corporate philosophy, that are anchored in the internationally applicable Credo.
Position overview J&J Innovative Medicine Research & Development develops treatments that improve the health and lifestyles of people worldwide.
R&D development areas encompass novel targets in neurologic disorders, gastroenterology, oncology, diabetes, hematology, metabolic disorders, immunologic disorders, pulmonary hypertension and reproductive medicine.
Within Pharmaceutical Product Development & Supply (PPDS), we are recruiting an Associate Scientist or Senior Associate scientist in the Parenterals & Liquids Development (PLD) department in Beerse, Belgium (1 year contract).
The PLD team is at the forefront of innovation, developing groundbreaking Parenteral and Liquid drug product formulations and processes across our R&D Synthetics portfolio (small molecules, peptides, oligonucleotides), from late Discovery to Commercialization.
This portfolio covers a variety of formulation types such as solutions, (nano)suspensions, liposomes, lipid-based systems, biodegradable microspheres and injectable biodegradable rods.
The team is exploring various administration routes including oral, IV, IM, SC, intra-organ, intra-tumoral, topical, nasal, ophthalmic, transdermal, intrathecal and inhalation.
As a Formulation (Senior) Associate Scientist within this team, you will be operating at the forefront of cutting-edge drug delivery technology.
You will (co-)lead and implement formulation development activities for state of the art Long Acting Injectable (LAI) suspension formulations of poorly soluble small molecules in (pre)clinical development stage.
This will include providing experimental design and intellectual input regarding formulation design and process development, as well as hands-on manufacturing, process optimization, upscaling and technology transfer to support clinical trial manufacturing.
In this capacity, you will collaborate closely with subject matter experts across different areas and drive forward scientific and technical advancements in this constantly evolving field.
This position will include hands-on, lab-based research while offering leadership and growth opportunities.
Tasks & Responsibilities.
·         Performs formulation and process development activities for innovative parenteral and liquid dosage forms across our R&D Synthetics portfolio, with strong focus on development of Long Acting Injectables (LAI).
·         Designs formulations, performs hands-on laboratory work and captures results in electronic lab notebook and reports.
Development activities span from preclinical to clinical phases.
·         Develops expertise in assigned technical/scientific areas, searches the academic and patent literature to identify current best practices, gaps and IP opportunities relating to the scientific field, and translates new ideas into patient-centric solutions in support of drug development.
·         Provides input for master batch records for clinical batches.
Performs criticality analysis assessments and defines control strategies.
·         Writes source documents in support of regulatory filings and provides scientific responses to inquiries from Health Authorities.
·         Collaborates with various internal partners in Drug Development such as Pharmaceutical & Material Sciences, Analytical Development, Pharmaceutical Supply & Engineering Sciences, Quality, Legal, Supply Chain, and collaborates with external partners and CDMOs.
Qualifications ·         Master’s degree with a minimum of 4 years (Senior Associate Scientist) or a minimum of 1-3 years (Associate Scientist) of experience in a relevant field in Pharmaceutical Sciences / Chemistry / Bioengineering / Chemical Engineering.
·         Demonstrated experience in parenterals and liquids formulation and process development for synthetic drug compounds (small molecules) with focus on LAIs (microsuspensions, nanosuspensions) and a good understanding of physical pharmacy and particle engineering principles.
Experience in aseptic/sterile processes, milling and nanonization techniques, and lyophilization is desired.
·         A background in other advanced drug delivery technologies such as biodegradable microspheres, injectable biodegradable rods, gels, liposomes is advantageous.
·         Scientific curiosity, innovation mindset, critical thinking capabilities and problem-solving inclination.
·         Excellent teammate with strong oral and written communication skills who thrives in a collaborative environment.
Ability to partner with external (academic) networks and CDMOs.
·         Ability to conduct hands-on experiments accurately and safely in a modern laboratory environment.
Our offer.
·         An exciting position in an international and dynamic environment with continuous learning and growth opportunities ·         Working on a site that harbors all aspects of the drug discovery and development process, located close to the vibrant city of Antwerp.
·         A competitive salary, on-site sports accommodations, health/energy programs and other benefits for you and your family.
·         An inclusive team environment where diversity and different opinions are respected and valued, and the importance of a good work-life balance is recognized.
We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.
Please contact us to request accommodation.
Johnson & Johnson is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.