Winter Co-op/Lead Discovery Chemistry

Uniting science, technology and talent to get ahead of disease together.

GSK is a global biopharma company with a special purpose – to unite science, technology and talent to get ahead of disease together – so we can positively impact the health of billions of people and deliver stronger, more sustainable shareholder returns – as an organisation where people can thrive. We prevent and treat disease with vaccines, specialty and general medicines. We focus on the science of the immune system and the use of new platform and data technologies, investing in four core therapeutic areas (infectious diseases, HIV, respiratory/ immunology and oncology).

Our success absolutely depends on our people. While getting ahead of disease together is about our ambition for patients and shareholders, it’s also about making GSK a place where people can thrive. We want GSK to be a place where people feel inspired, encouraged and challenged to be the best they can be. A place where they can be themselves – feeling welcome, valued, and included. Where they can keep growing and look after their wellbeing. So, if you share our ambition, join us at this exciting moment in our journey to get Ahead Together.

The Encoded Technology (ET) platform is part of Small Molecule Research (SMR) at GSK. The ET group is an integral part of GSK's drug discovery platform and is comprised of a multi-disciplinary team of chemists, biologists, and data scientists applying DNA-encoded libraries and other novel technologies to the discovery of new therapeutics. 

For an overview of DNA-encoded library (DEL) technology, see:

• Clark, M. A. et al. Design, Synthesis and Selection of DNA-Encoded Small-Molecule Libraries. Nat. Chem. Biol. 2009, 5, 647-654.
• Flood, D. T.; Kingston, C.; Vantourout, J. C.; Dawson, P. E.; Baran, P. S. DNA Encoded Libraries: A Visitor's Guide. Isr. J. Chem. 2020, 60, 268-280.
• Arico-Muendel, C. C. From haystack to needle: finding value with DNA encoded library technology at GSK. Med. Chem. Commun., 2016, 7, 1898–1909.
• Mantell, M. A.; Pahil, K. S. et al. On-DNA Binder Confirmation: Increasing Confidence in DEL Hits. J. Med Chem. 2025, 68, 19598-19606.

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We are seeking a highly motivated chemist to work on hit-to-lead optimization of chemical series identified using DNA-encoded libraries (DEL) within the Encoded Technologies (ET) platform in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The chemist will work full-time during their 6-month co-op and apply their skills in organic chemistry and drug development. The primary focus of the placement will be small molecule synthesis to confirm and develop hits from our DEL platform. As a member of our team, you will also gain insight into the broader aspects of DEL technology and drug discovery.

• Must be pursuing a PhD degree in Chemistry or similar discipline.
• Must have theoretical and laboratory experience in organic chemistry. Chemist should be familiar with the optimization of reaction conditions and the synthesis, purification, and analysis of organic compounds.
• Must be able to work full-time (35-40 hours/week) throughout the duration of the 6-month assignment (January ~ June 2027).
• Must have an active student status and/or within 12 months post-graduation from a BS or MS degree program. Post-doctoral candidates are not eligible. 

• Understanding of organic reactions and the ability to apply that in a laboratory setting for the development and synthesis of DNA-Encoded Libraries.
• Synthetic organic chemistry experience in either method development or synthesis.
• The ability to independently design experiments and apply trouble-shooting skills to optimize reaction conditions.
• Ambitious and organized individual who can tackle synthetic challenges.

• Must successfully pass a drug screen and background check prior to assignment target start date.  
• Once your application is submitted, you will be prompted to complete our immersive GSK Digital Assessment. A passing score is required to proceed in the application process. After completing the assessment, a recruiter will review your application and contact you with next steps. 
  • Please note: We recommend using your personal email when submitting your application as school emails tend to block external senders. If you do not receive an automated email after submitting your application, be sure to check your spam folder.

• Atrium is committed to partnering with our clients to create inclusive work environments; to that end, if you need to request an accommodation to complete this application, please reach out to GSK@atriumworks.com.

• While GSK embraces a flexible work environment, we do require certain positions to be onsite. Candidates who are hired for an on-site role or hybrid role, and reside outside of 50-miles from their assigned work location, are eligible for relocation stipend. This is a one-time payment to help offset housing & relocation expenses. Please refer to the position details for the requirements of each position. 
• GSK Interns and Co-ops are offered a competitive hourly pay rate and benefits. Please note, benefits eligibility determined the month following date of hire.

• This job posting is for a temporary role as an employee of Atrium on assignment at GSK. The individual selected for this role will be offered the role as an employee of Atrium; compensation, medical benefits, fringe benefits and other terms and conditions of employment shall be presented by Atrium upon offer. The pay rate range provided is a reasonable estimate of the anticipated compensation range for this job at the time of posting. The actual pay rate will be based on several factors, including skills, competencies, experience, educational degree obtained, location and/or being pursued and other job-related factors permitted by law.

  In addition, this role will be eligible for overtime pay, in accordance with federal and state requirement.

  • Pay Rate Range: $22/hr to $43/hr

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