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Job Summary

Medicines for All (M4ALL), 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 drug substance manufacturing. Our work supports treatments for diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis, malaria, oncology, metabolic disorders, CNS, and immunology.

The Scientist, Automation Chemistry supports the development, optimization, and execution of automated workflows that improve the efficiency, consistency, and scalability of chemical synthesis at M4ALL. This role focuses on using automation tools, high‑throughput equipment, and standard laboratory techniques to run experiments, generate reliable data, and support process development efforts.

The Scientist, Automation Chemistry works as an experienced individual contributor who can plan and carry out experiments independently, troubleshoot routine issues with automated systems, and collaborate closely with scientists and engineers across the institute. The role requires strong experimental skills, careful documentation, and the ability to use data to inform next steps in developing practical, lower‑cost chemical processes.

Primary Responsibilities 

Process Innovation

• Design and conduct high-throughput experiments (HTE) to address critical questions in chemical process research and development (small molecule API focus). Perform automated workflows (e.g., reaction condition, catalyst, crystallization screens) and synthesize data to enable key decisions and optimal performance in route scouting and process optimization.
• Conduct literature searches and summarize information on the state of the art in automation and robotics, addressing relevant unit operations and workflows in chemical synthesis - e.g., solids and liquids handling and dispensation, parallel reactors (batch and flow), phase separation, purification (recrystallization, distillation), isolation (drying, downpacking), etc.
• Develop, maintain, and apply working knowledge with laboratory automation and high-throughput screening tools that span common unit operations in chemical synthesis.
• Set up and run automated / high-throughput workflows using established methods and software interfaces, including loading or modifying existing scripts as needed.
• Develop new experimental protocols and techniques in the domain of automation, robotics and HTE, across process chemistry unit operations, in partnership with team leadership.
• Use automation software and data‑capture tools to run established experimental workflows and upload results to M4ALL’s reaction databases. Contribute to the
• Perform experiments efficiently in a fast‑paced environment while ensuring accurate sample preparation, plate setup, and data logging.
• Summarize experimental results and provide observations on data patterns to support team discussions in process development.
• Maintain a detailed, accurate, and up‑to‑date electronic lab notebook (ELN) documenting automated workflows, parameters, and results.

Project Management

• Use M4ALL’s project management and communication platforms to track assigned automation‑related tasks, document experiment status, and share updates with the project team.
• Follow established purchasing, inventory, and equipment‑use procedures for automation consumables and use laboratory materials responsibly to support efficient execution of automated workflows.
• Complete assigned automated experiments and data‑processing tasks according to project timelines, and communicate promptly with the project lead if delays, equipment issues, or workflow interruptions arise.

Development & Execution

• Assist in testing and evaluating new automation tools, workflows, or software features that may improve laboratory efficiency or data quality.
• Participate in continuous improvement efforts by offering observations or suggestions to enhance day‑to‑day automation practices and support a positive experience for internal collaborators.

Interdepartmental and External Communications

• Prepare clear and accurate written summaries of automated experiments and contribute content for internal project updates and reports.
• Share progress on assigned tasks during team meetings and provide straightforward explanations of experimental results to internal scientific and non‑scientific audiences.
• Seek clarification from the line manager when project expectations or communications are unclear, and work collaboratively to resolve routine misunderstandings.
• Assist in preparing scientific materials such as paper studies, draft sections of publications, SOPs, Work Instructions, Hazard Assessments, and other documents supporting laboratory operations.

Team & Infrastructure Development

• Support onboarding new Scientists, Technicians, and Postdocs as member of "buddy" network, to ease their transition into the M4ALL team.
• Develop a thorough understanding of M4ALL tech (IT) and infrastructure for critical unit operations, how to use it. (Leverage and Grow Technology Prowess)

Mindset

• Demonstrate resource stewardship, accountability, commitment to quality work, appreciation of your work's criticality to the M4ALL mission (Ownership)
• Show willingness to compromise on pathways to a common goal, putting clients' priorities first (Flexibility)
• Show willingness to change course in the face of changing business needs and opportunities. Be resilient in face of change. (Adaptability)
• Listen to stakeholders (internal and external) and address needs and concerns. Deliver on service commitments: Maintain supportive relationships with stakeholders. (Service Excellence)
• As a team member, all that you do will be aligned with VCU’s and M4ALL’s core values.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related field with at least 2 years of relevant laboratory experience; An equivalent combination of education and experience that demonstrates the required knowledge and skills.
• Hands-on experience conducting chemical reactions, including preparing reagents, running experiments, and performing routine troubleshooting in a laboratory environment.
• Experience using analytical techniques such as HPLC, GC, LC‑MS, or NMR to evaluate reaction outcomes.
• Familiarity with automated or high‑throughput laboratory equipment, or demonstrated ability to learn and apply automation tools in experimental workflows.
• Demonstrated ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from all backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU.
• Ability to follow established laboratory procedures, maintain accurate documentation, and use electronic lab notebooks (ELNs).
• Ability to plan and execute experiments with moderate independence and to use data to inform next steps.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high‑quality, reproducible experimental records.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare clear project updates and present findings to internal audiences.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment and contribute to shared project goals. Commitment to laboratory safety practices and adherence to institutional safety policies.
• Ability to work on‑site in a laboratory environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD in organic, organometallic or inorganic chemistry. Individuals with significant years’ experience and training equivalent to a PhD will be considered.
• Ability to publish research findings in high impact scientific journals. Preference will be given to candidates who demonstrate a proven track record of publications.
• Knowledge of industrial process research, process development, scale-up, and tech transfer.
• Strong understanding of and experience with all analytical methods relevant to synthetic organic chemistry (NMR, HPLC, MS, IR, UV, etc).
• Experience with machine learning and data-science techniques. Ability to design appropriate experiments to build and validate AI/ML tools.

Additional Details

Salary Range: Up to a maximum of $93,000 annually

Benefits: All full-time university staff are eligible for VCU’s robust benefits package that includes comprehensive health benefits, paid annual and holiday leave, generous tuition benefits, retirement planning and savings options, tax-deferred annuity and cash match programs, employee discounts, well-being resources, abundant opportunities for career development and advancement, and more.

FLSA Exemption Status: Exempt

Hours per Week:Minimum of 40 hours/week; Monday - Friday (day shift)

Restricted Position: Yes

ORP Eligible: Yes

Flexible Work Arrangement: On-site Requirement

University Job Title: Scientist RS 1-3, Research

Contact Information: M4all@vcu.edu