Postdoc Research Scientist, Ion Mobility Mass Spectrometry (im-ms) and Capillary Electrophoresis Ms (ce-ms) (2 Years)

Johnson & Johnson Johnson & Johnson · Pharma · Beerse, Antwerp, Belgium

Postdoctoral Research Scientist position focusing on Ion Mobility Mass Spectrometry (IM-MS) and Capillary Electrophoresis MS (CE-MS) for conformational analysis of small and large molecules within Johnson & Johnson's Innovative Medicine division. The role involves designing and executing experiments, optimizing separations, analyzing complex datasets, and developing data-processing pipelines for structural and analytical applications in a healthcare R&D setting.

What you'd actually do

  1. Design and execute experiments using IM-MS and CE-MS for small molecules (metabolites, lipids) and larger molecules (peptides, PROTACs).
  2. Optimize ionization conditions, CE separations, and IM parameters to resolve conformers and isobaric species.
  3. Maximize the output from raw data using appropriate software and statistical analysis tools.
  4. Develop and implement data-processing pipelines (scripting and/or software tools) for Collision Cross Section (CCS) extraction, peak deconvolution, and statistical analyses.
  5. Collaborate within multidisciplinary teams to contextualize data within broader research objectives, propose and develop follow-up experiments, and document and present findings.

Skills

Required

  • PhD in Analytical or Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biochemistry, or a related field
  • Very strong organic chemistry background and a solid understanding of molecular structure
  • Strong hands-on experience with ion mobility-high-resolution mass spectrometry
  • Demonstrated knowledge of gas-phase ion behavior, conformational analysis, and CCS concepts.
  • Proficiency in data analysis software and ability to interpret complex datasets
  • Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently and in teams.
  • High level of flexibility, creativity and sense of responsibility
  • Team player with strong interpersonal skills in an international team setting
  • Strong communication skills in English, both written and verbal

Nice to have

  • Practical experience with capillary electrophoresis coupled to mass spectrometry or equivalent front-end separations is an asset.
  • Strong track record of scientific contributions (peer reviewed publications, patents, or presentations at major meetings) is a plus
  • Proficiency in data analysis and scripting (Python, R, MATLAB, or similar) to process large MS/IM datasets is an asset
  • Good understanding of NMR data analysis and interpretation