Scientist, Analytical Development - Medicines for All Institute

Job Summary

Medicines for All (M4ALL) at Virginia Commonwealth University is an entrepreneurial, impact-oriented institute founded with a commitment to improving access to medications across the globe by driving down production costs. We do this, in part, by developing low-cost, high-quality routes for the manufacturing of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Our work supports treatment for diseases such as COVID-19, HIV, TB and malaria.

We are seeking a Scientist in Analytical Development with a strong blend of technical expertise, leadership abilities, and strategic vision to help us drive technological advancements and make affordable medicines worldwide! Applicants who meet the required qualifications and have varying levels of experience are encouraged to apply.

The Scientist, Analytical Development will play a key role at M4ALL in advancing our mission. They will be responsible for method development tasks while also executing routine analytical analyses in a fast-paced, time sensitive environment. Our new colleague will bring a strong background in small molecule analysis, preferably related to drug substance, a passion for working with interdisciplinary teams and excellent problem-solving skills. They will foster a culture of safe operations and collaborations.

Scientific Execution & Innovation

• Development and performance of analytical methods to support process chemistry development
• Maintenance of analytical instrumentation within the Institute laboratories
• Maintains detailed, accurate, and up-to-date documentation
• Delivers results in a high-paced and time-sensitive environment
• Develops hypothesis-driven, methodical experimental plans
• Supports development of new technical platforms that accelerate analytical method development and throughput

Program Management & Communications

• Demonstrates timely and proficient use of project management platforms
• Adheres to project timelines and deliverables
• Displays ownership of assigned work, including proactive planning, timely execution, and accountability for deliverables
• Escalates risks and deviations in a timely and appropriate manner

Interdepartmental & External Communications

• Independently prepares clear, accurate, and concise written internal project updates and reports
• Teams with Process Development colleagues to ensure timely, high-quality experimental data capture
• Prepares and delivers clear, accurate presentation-format (oral) updates to report findings, in-person or virtually, for internal audiences

Other Duties

• Other duties as assigned
• Special projects in support of the M4ALL mission

Qualifications

Required: We're seeking a dynamic individual with the perfect blend of technical competency and a passion for mission-driven work.

• Education: BS (8+ yrs), MS (3+ yrs) or PhD (0+ yrs) in analytical chemistry is required. Experience supporting process chemistry development in a pharmaceutical setting is a plus.
• Hands-on experience with at least 1 of the following analytical instrumentation: HPLC, GC, SFC, MS, XRD, DSC/TGA, spectroscopy and other analytical instrumentation and associated software.
• Autonomous and productive in performing lab work, including, but not limited to, solution and sample preparations, instrument maintenance, buffer preparations and data analysis, after appropriate training.
• Method development experience with at least one technique (attention to detail).
• 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.
• Energy and passion to thrive in a start-up environment and to deliver on the mission of the Medicines for All Institute to improve access to affordable medicines. 
• Ability to work within a fast-paced environment and meet rigorous deadlines while demonstrating adaptability.
• Alignment and adherence to M4ALL’s core values and purpose, to include an unwavering commitment to safety with the highest standards of honesty, respect, professionalism, integrity and scholarly ethics alignment with VCU/M4ALL values.
• Effective communication skills adept at navigating and leveraging diverse perspectives to achieve common goals, promoting a culture of collaboration and team work within the work environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous laboratory research experience with a focus on chromatography.
• Advanced proficiency in effectively managing time and prioritizing tasks.
• Ability to be adaptable and smoothly transition between tasks throughout the day.
• Ability to train lab personnel with various levels of experience, to include an aptitude for tailoring training methods to accommodate varying skill levels and ensuring comprehensive understanding among team members.
• Ability to perform routine preventative maintenance and coordinate service visits. Knowledge of working with manufacturers and suppliers.

Additional Details

Salary Range: Up to $110,000. Placement within the range will reflect the candidate’s depth of experience and qualifications, with the upper end reserved for those bringing substantial, directly relevant analytical chemistry experience.

University Job Title: This job posting welcomes candidates with diverse levels of experience. Final placement at the Scientist I/II/III level will be determined by the candidate’s qualifications and directly relevant experience.

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: 40; Dayshift 

Restricted Position: Yes- Since M4ALL’s inception in 2017, we have received significant financial support from a diverse portfolio of major donors. This position is grant-funded, with employment contingent upon the ongoing availability of funding.

ORP Eligible: Yes

Reporting Structure: This role reports to the Associate Director, Analytical Development and embodies everyday leadership, with an expectation to lead through actions, discussions, decisions, and interactions. As a role model within the organization, you will influence others by consistently demonstrating the values and behaviors that drive our mission forward.

Worksite Location: The workstation will be located at the VA Bio+Tech Park and is not a remote position. The role may involve rare, project‑dependent travel as needed.

Contact Information: m4all@vcu.edu

Posting Date: Opened July 30, 2026 and will remain open until filled. Priority consideration will be given to candidates who apply by August 10, 2026.