Are you ready to lead groundbreaking drug discovery projects and make a meaningful impact on the future of small molecule therapeutics?
Our client, a prominent research organization at the forefront of innovation in drug discovery, is seeking a Deputy Director in Medicinal Chemistry to join their dynamic team.
This role offers the chance to collaborate with leading academic and industry partners, drive innovation, and contribute to the development of life-changing therapies.
Based in a thriving biotech hub, this position combines scientific excellence with strategic leadership in an inspiring and collaborative environment.
Your key responsibilities will include:
- Project Leadership: Oversee and coordinate early-stage drug discovery projects, from the identification of hits to the selection of preclinical candidates. Manage both small molecule and biologics (e.g., therapeutic antibodies) projects, ensuring successful transition to the preclinical phase.
- Scientific Expertise: Provide in-depth expertise in medicinal chemistry, including design and optimization of lead compounds, and tackle key challenges in drug discovery.
- Hit-to-Lead Development: Lead the advancement of drug discovery projects from initial hits through lead optimization, with a focus on selecting high potential candidates for preclinical studies.
- Innovation and Integration: Identify and implement cutting-edge technologies, including AI and in silico design, to enhance drug discovery eHorts. Collaborate across internal divisions to ensure a multidisciplinary approach.
- ADMET/PK Understanding: Apply a solid understanding of ADMET (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion, and Toxicology) and pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters, and coordinate with in vivo pharmacology teams to support preclinical readiness.
- Performance and Evaluation: Ensure the successful execution of early-stage pharmacological and toxicological assessments, contributing to the selection of robust drug candidates.
- Intellectual Property and Business Strategy: Protect intellectual property (IP) associated with drug discovery and collaborate closely with business development teams to build strategic alliances with industry partners.
Profile required
Ph.D. in organic Chemistry or Pharmaceutical Sciences, ideally focusing on the synthesis of small organic molecules.
You bring around 10 years of experience in drug discovery. Prior experience in a pharmaceutical or biotech company is a major asset.
Scientific & technical skills
- Strong expertise in medicinal chemistry with an excellent grasp of critical issues in drug discovery and early-stage development.
- ADMET/PK Familiarity: Proficient understanding of ADMET and PK parameters, with familiarity in vivo pharmacology aspects that are essential for preclinical candidate selection.
- Proven Track Record: A demonstrated history of advancing drug discovery projects from hits to preclinical candidate selection is required.
Soft & Behavioral Skills
- Leadership: Ability to lead and inspire multidisciplinary scientific teams, providing clear direction and fostering a collaborative environment.
- Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to explain complex scientific concepts to a broad audience (multisectorial, mutidsciplinary context), including non-experts.
- Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills to tackle complex challenges in drug discovery.
What They Offer:
- Join a dynamic biotech company with a proven track record in drug discovery.
- Gain autonomy in shaping the success of their research projects.
- Competitive compensation package.
- Opportunity to work in a highly collaborative and innovative environment.
Take the next step in your career and help shape the future of medicinal chemistry research!