Attilla from Discovery Chemistry

• • Discovery chemistry

  • Matt - synthetic chemistry
  • Galith - synthetic chemistry
  • Theresa - synthetic chemistry
  • Richard - computational chemistry
  • Attilla - computational chemistry
  • Jon - medicinal chemistry
  • Sara - synthetic chemistry
  • Linette - physical chemistry
  • Julie - protein crystallographer
  • Matthew - physical chemistry
  • Chester - medicinal chemistry
  • Denise - synthetic chemistry
  • Hiroki - medicinal chemistry

I graduated with a BSc Hon degree in Chemistry and Computer Science from Leeds University where my last year chemistry option in Medicinal chemistry sparked an interest in drug discovery. I studied a PhD in computational chemistry at the Institute for Computer Applications in Molecular Sciences (ICAMS), Leeds University, and was sponsored by Organon, where I specialised in developing software and its application to drug design."Computational chemistry is a fast moving field where there are always new things to learn and new challenges to overcome" Attilla

After graduation I decided I wanted to work in the pharmaceutical industry.  I was particularly attracted to AstraZeneca by its strong reputation in the industry and its commitment to employee development and because of AstraZeneca people I had met while a student.

I first joined AstraZeneca as an application developer specialised in the design and development of software for research chemists. After two years, I joined the computational chemistry group to support drug-hunting projects.  The interviews included presentation, technical and competency interviews, team working and problem solving exercises.  

As a computational chemist, my main role is to apply computational techniques to solve a variety of problems in drug-hunting projects working with scientists from many disciplines, ranging from medicinal chemists, bio- scientists to statisticians.  Computational chemistry is a fast moving field where there are always new things to learn and new challenges to overcome.

As a computational chemist I have been involved mainly in early drug discovery projects for the treatment of arthritis. This allows me to apply a wide variety of techniques and develop my scientific and technical skills.  My daily jobs vary from data analysis, data and information mining, structure based design, predicting compounds activity and molecular properties to virtual screening.  Strong problem solving skills and good scientific common sense are very important for my role.   Good interpersonal, communication and presentation skills are essential for my work in multiple disciplinary teams.  

I really enjoy my work in AstraZeneca. I find I have many opportunities for development both as a scientist and as individual.  The computational chemistry group here has a very broad range of expertise and experience, together with a supportive atmosphere, which provides an excellent environment for development of young scientists.  I find the problem solving aspect and the interaction with many different people and disciplines very simulating, challenging and rewarding.  Though sometimes it can be demanding delivering to the project deadlines.