Postdoctoral Fellow - Chemical Process Research and Development

Working with Johnson & Johnson can change everything. Including YOU! The postdoctoral fellow joins the Crystallization Technology Unit (CTU), part of Chemical Process Research and Development (CPRD) in Beerse, Belgium. The 20 researcher strong team at CTU is responsible for developing crystallization processes of small molecule active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). To support their formulation and application in the drug product, the team strongly focuses on delivering APIs with appropriate physicochemical properties (purity, polymorphism, solubility, particle size & shape ...). Within this context, the candidate will become owner of a two-year research project to explore the application of porous metal-organic framework materials within our development workflow. By embedding the API within a “well-behaving” porous carrier, undesired API properties could be avoided, difficult-to crystallize systems could be tackled more easily and new tools for innovative controlled drug delivery could be obtained. In this project, the candidate is driven to seek answers to research and feasibility questions by delivering an industry- and patient-relevant proof-of-concept. Your key tasks & responsibilities: You are responsible for all research activities aimed at successfully developing a proof-of-concept API-MOF drug delivery system, according to the work packages and goals laid out at the start of the project. We count on you to independently make informed decisions, establish priorities and draft timelines. You design and perform experiments under minimal direction. You originate and defend ideas, experimental protocols and methods to advance the project, ranging from material synthesis, characterization to API adsorption to release. You maintain a lab presence and are actively and personally involved in lab work; You work with colleagues across the organisation, e.g. in materials characterization and in vitro/vivo assessment of API release profiles. You ensure the proper recording of information obtained throughout the project. You analyze in depth, interpret and review data and draw conclusions. You inform the team and build awareness in the broader organisation through timely reports. You disseminate the obtained results by preparing, submitting and publishing manuscripts in high-impact, peer-reviewed scientific journals. You present your work at internal (e.g. Janssen postdoc symposium) or external scientific meetings, where applicable. You keep abreast of current scientific developments and new techniques appearing in literature. You actively engage with internal and external experts to solve scientific or engineering problems and to develop new insights to push the project forward. You actively partake in your personal and professional development through courses, seminars and training programs. You cultivate a scientific and business network within Janssen by engaging in scientific and career development activities organized by the Postdoc community. Qualifications We would love to hear from YOU, if you have: Must haves: to be considered for this role, please ensure the minimum requirements are evident on your resume. Doctoral degree (PhD) in Chemistry, Chemical/Bio engineering or a related science (Material Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences). Highly motivated scientist with proven research experience in MOF chemistry (synthesis, characterization & application) and strong track record of relevant scientific output (publications, patents, contributions at conferences and symposia). Excellent knowledge of relevant analytical techniques to characterize (crystallinity, adsorption, stability, etc) and evaluate the performance of porous materials is essential. Non-exhaustive examples include X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, FTIR spectroscopy, texture analysis, particle size and shape characterization, microscopy, thermal analysis (TGA, DSC), chromatography (GC & UPLC). Hands-on experience with conducting accurate, data-rich experiments using automated reactors and process analytical tools. Proficient in building ad hoc experimental setups in a lean and safe way. You're an out-of-the-box problem solver, applying your critical and analytical attitude to formulate strategies to push your research forward. Effective verbal and written communication skills English (Dutch is not required) and ability to cooperate in a multidisciplinary team environment. Able to build a broad network to support your project goals. The following abilities are considered beneficial: Knowledge of organic/pharmaceutical crystallization: methods, thermodynamic and kinetic aspects, process development. Experience in Design of Experiments is considered an asset. Familiar with computational chemistry & molecular modeling. (Industrial) experience with process scale-up and/or technology transfer, moving from laboratory to pilot plant or production scale. Experience with inline microscopy and image analysis, powder rheology, PAT equipment. What's in it for you Access to state-of-the art facilities, including high tech experimental equipment and become part of an enthusiastic, experienced team, all located in Beerse (Belgium), the biggest R&D campus of the Janssen network. Through mentoring programs, e-university and on the job training, we ensure your personal development in an innovative, global company. A market-competitive re-numeration package including numerous fringe benefits An inspiring work-life balance: on-site sport facilities, health/energy programs and other healthcare benefits for you and your family. Flexible working hours, no fixed holiday planning (up to 38 days/year) and possibility to work from home for non-laboratory related tasks. A work environment that embraces diversity and open to any individual with a scientifically driven and practical entrepreneurial mind set. About Janssen, the Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson At Johnson & Johnson, we believe good health is the foundation of vibrant lives, thriving communities and forward progress. That’s why for more than 130 years, we have aimed to keep people well at every age and every stage of life. Today, as the world’s largest and most broadly based healthcare company, we are committed to using our reach and size for good. We strive to improve access and affordability, create healthier communities, and put a healthy mind, body and environment within reach of everyone, everywhere. At Janssen, we’re creating a future where disease is a thing of the past. We are working diligently to make that future a reality for patients everywhere by fighting sickness with science, improving access with ingenuity, and healing hopelessness with heart. We focus on areas of medicine where we can make the biggest difference: Cardiovascular & Metabolism, Immunology, Infectious Diseases & Vaccines, Neuroscience, Oncology, and Pulmonary Hypertension. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. Ready to be part of something great? Don't forget to apply. We want YOU! Primary Location Belgium-Antwerp-Beerse- Organization Janssen Pharmaceutica N.V. (7555) Job Function R&D Requisition ID 2105994409W