Senior Scientist, Process Development - Medicines Institute

Overview

Medicines for All (M4

ALL), a part of Virginia Commonwealth University, is an entrepreneurial, impact-oriented institute dedicated to dramatically improving global access to lifesaving medicines. We achieve this through synthetic process innovation and advanced technology deployment to reduce costs and waste in small molecule active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) production. Our API process development services support treatments for diseases such as TB, malaria, HIV, oncology, metabolic diseases, CNS, and immunology.

We work in service to – and partnership with – non-profit organizations and translational research-focused companies and institutes.

• API Process Development – Project Leadership:
  Lead project teams in developing 1st generation (clinical) and 2nd generation (commercial) API manufacturing processes as needed. Deliver process development innovation excellence with focus on scalability, efficiency, cost-effectiveness and safety. Act as primary technical liaison for clients and partners, fostering strong relationships and delivering high-impact outcomes. Deliver timely, high-quality customer engagements through diligent project management and regular, solutions-driven communications (oral and written), adhering to priorities and timelines with transparency and accountability.
  
  Apply deep process chemistry expertise across route scouting, optimization, scale-up, and tech transfer as part of the API lifecycle. Collaborate with Analytical, MSAT, EHS, Commercial, and Project Management teams to meet milestones on time and within budget.
• API Process Development – Individual Contribution:
  Lead, conduct, and document literature reviews for target chemical transformations and APIs; identify and classify strategies; articulate process improvement opportunities. Design and evaluate synthetic routes to target APIs and intermediates with focus on cost, sustainability, minimization of steps, and safety. Develop and execute hypothesis-driven experiments and translate results into further experiments for lower costs or improvements. In process research, assess multiple reaction conditions and identify trends for improved outcomes.
  
  In process development, perform data-rich experiments to build robust knowledge. Leverage high-throughput experimentation, automation, and DOE to accelerate development and build M4
  
  ALL reaction databases. Deliver results in a fast-paced environment. Demonstrate robust data interpretation and incorporate data-driven insights into reports and designs. Maintain a detailed electronic lab notebook (ELN) for knowledge management.
• Project Management:
  Demonstrate timely use of M4
  
  ALL’s project management tools to support internal coordination and client communication. Maintain project budget awareness and stewardship in purchasing reagents, solvents, starting materials, and intermediates. Track timelines and deliverables, escalating risks proactively to maintain transparency.
• Strategy Development & Execution:
  Support development of new technology platforms that accelerate drug substance development and differentiate M4
  
  ALL’s offerings. Continuously evaluate and improve work processes to enhance operational excellence and customer/collaborator experience.
• Interdepartmental and External Communications:
  Prepare clear project updates and reports, contribute high-quality scientific content for publications, and communicate findings effectively in written and oral formats. Address misalignments constructively and support documentation efforts across SOPs, work instructions, hazard assessments, and publications.
• Team & Infrastructure Development:
  Support onboarding of new Scientists, Technicians, and Postdocs; develop proficiency in M4
  
  ALL IT and infrastructure for critical unit operations and contribute to its evolution.
• Championing VCU’s and M4
  
  ALL’s Core Values:
  Embody values including mission-first focus, integrity, safety, respect, customer-centricity, adaptability, transparent communication, and collaboration.

Required Education & Technical Abilities:

• Education:
  
  PhD in Organic Chemistry (total synthesis of natural products or novel synthetic methods),…