Topic Lead for Structure Elucidation and Mass Spectrometry, Basel

The Position The Analytical Research&Development department (PTDC-A) is part of Pharma Technical Development (PTD) and is responsible for analyzing drug substances and dosage forms of synthetic molecule development products. The ultimate goal of our work is a robust control strategy to release pharmaceutical products for clinical trials and for commercial supply.

The“Hyphenated&Special Technologies (HST)” section provides key scientific customer support mainly with Mass Spectrometry (MS), separation sciences and innovative special technologies. More than 20 mass spectrometry experts verify the safety and quality of our products by identity testing, characterization and quantification of any typeof impurities.

Opportunity As Topic Lead for Small Molecule Structure Elucidation, you will step into a pivotal role, acting as an analytical detective. You will use state‑of‑the‑art high‑resolution LC‑MS and GC‑MS systems to solve complex structural puzzles, identifying and characterizing unknown impurities in our small molecule, oligonucleotide, and peptide portfolio. Your work will directly impact project decisions, accelerate development, and ultimately ensure the quality and safety of medicines for patients.

You serve as topic lead and subject matter expert for structure elucidation, maintaining overall oversight on all structure elucidation requests and collaborating closely with team members.

You solve analytical challenges by independently designing and executing hands‑on lab experiments for the structure elucidation of unknown impurities from process development, forced degradation studies, and troubleshooting activities.

You apply your expertise in cutting‑edge techniques including qualitative LC‑HRMS, 2D‑LC‑HRMS, and GC‑HRMS to analyze complex drug substances and drug products.

You critically evaluate and interpret complex analytical data and provide clear and concise conclusions in English that guide project teams and support regulatory filings.

You sense future needs and actively identify opportunities to enhance our workflows, evaluate new software tools, and contribute to the team’s ongoing development.

You act as an enabler by removing barriers and creating a work environment where every team member can be successful.

You proactively partner with project leads and stakeholders across various functions, ensuring analytical insights are directly communicated, understood, and integrated into project decisions.

Who you are You are a passionate structure elucidation expert with people leadership skills who finds deep satisfaction in solving complex structural puzzles and sharing your knowledge. You thrive in a collaborative, high‑tech environment and are motivated by the direct impact your work has on developing new medicines.

Qualifications

A higher education (Master’s or PhD in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field) or an apprenticeship as a laboratory technician with a minimum of 5 years of direct, hands‑on experience in structure elucidation using LC‑HRMS and proven leadership skills.

Proven, in‑depth experience in interpreting high‑resolution MS and MS/MS spectra for small molecules, peptides, or oligonucleotides.

Hands‑on skills in developing and optimizing chromatographic (HPLC, GC) and mass spectrometry methods.

A pragmatic, proactive, solution‑oriented, and accurate workstyle that effectively balances independent project responsibilities with active team collaboration.

Excellent communication skills and fluency in English; proficiency in German is a plus.

A keen interest in digital innovation, with exposure to tools like GeneData Expressionist®, ACD/Labs or programming languages (Python, JavaScript).

Practical experience with the maintenance and troubleshooting of HPLC, GC and MS instrumentation, as well as hands‑on experience with 2D‑LC‑MS and preparative HPLC.

Comfortable and experienced in working with MS instruments and software from various vendors.

Roche is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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