Scientist II/Senior Scientist, DEL Chemistry

Join to apply for the Scientist II/Senior Scientist, DEL Chemistry role at insitroJoin to apply for the Scientist II/Senior Scientist, DEL Chemistry role at insitroThe Opportunityinsitro uses advanced machine learning to analyze extensive biological and clinical data, aiming to improve the success rate of drug discovery and development. One of insitro's key platforms for generating small molecule therapeutics in neurological and metabolic diseases integrates DNA-encoded libraries (DEL) with machine learning. We are seeking a creative and data-oriented DEL synthetic chemist to lead lab-based DEL synthesis (on- and off- DNA) and data analysis. This role will play a key part in the application of machine learning to enhance the effectiveness and speed of our preclinical drug development programs. This position's reporting structure will be dependent on your specific skillset and will require you to be in our South San Francisco headquarters five days per week.ResponsibilitiesDesign, develop, and validate DEL synthesis schemes with high structural diversity using robust chemistries that complement our machine learning platformDevelop, validate, and implement innovative on-DNA chemistry strategies while providing technical expertise in synthetic methodsCollaborate with our Medicinal Chemistry and Machine Learning teams to enhance DEL library portfolio, hit expansion strategies, and hit confirmation activitiesInterface with selections team in designing DEL selections to various protein classesContribute to the analysis of DEL data and aid guidance of computational tool design and methodologies that strengthen DEL data analysisSupport hit generation activities across therapeutic areasPerform the synthesis of DNA-Encoded libraries and hits (on-DNA) internally and oversee synthetic chemistry through external partners (off-DNA)Lead cross-functional teams in drug discovery campaigns, bringing together experimental and computational expertiseDrive the implementation of machine learning approaches in DEL design, screening, and analysisQualificationsEducation and ExperiencePhD in, Medicinal Chemistry, Chemical Biology, Computational Chemistry or related discipline with 4+ years of relevant experienceMS with 8+ years or BS with 10+ years of relevant experience will also be consideredTechnical ExpertiseExposure to, knowledge of, and preferably hands-on experience, across aspects of DNA-encoded Library technology, including:Library design and synthesis strategyDEL selection methodologies and optimizationNext Generation Sequencing (NGS) data handlingAdvanced DEL data analysis and interpretationHit confirmation and validation strategiesProficiency with modern cheminformatics platforms, computational chemistry tools, and structure-based design approachesExperience in data visualization, statistical analysis, and interpretation of large chemical datasetsInterest in integrating machine learning concepts with traditional DEL methodologiesScientific AccomplishmentsDemonstrated scientific impact through publications, patents, or successful drug discovery programs ideally leveraging DEL technology against diverse targetsProven contributions to hit generation, hit-to-lead or lead optimization campaignsLeadership and CollaborationDemonstrated leadership in driving scientific projects and mentoring junior scientistsSuccessful track record of cross-functional collaboration with computational, biological, and chemical teamsExperience working effectively with CROs and external partnersHistory of professional engagement that advances both organizational goals and the broader scientific fieldCore CompetenciesExceptional analytical thinking and creative problem-solving abilitiesStrong organizational skills with ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environmentOutstanding communication skills to effectively translate complex scientific concepts across disciplinesAbility to thrive at the intersection of experimental chemistry and computational approachesEnthusiasm for working in a data-driven, machine learning-focused drug discovery environmentCompensation & Benefits At InsitroOur target starting salary for successful US-based applicants for this role is $135,000 - $180,000. To determine starting pay, we consider multiple job-related factors including a candidate's skills, education and experience, market demand, business needs, and internal parity. We may also adjust this range in the future based on market data.This role is eligible for participation in our Annual Performance Bonus Plan (based on company targets by role level and annual company performance) and our Equity Incentive Plan, subject to the terms of those plans and associated addition, insitro also provides our employees:401(k) plan with employer matching for contributionsExcellent medical, dental, and vision coverage as well as mental health and well-being supportOpen, flexible vacation policyPaid parental leave of at least 16 weeks to support parents who give birth, and 10 weeks for a new parent (inclusive of birth, adoption, fostering, etc)Quarterly budget for books and online courses for self-developmentSupport to attend professional conferences that are meaningful to your career growth and role's responsibilitiesNew hire stipend for home office setupMonthly cell phone & internet stipendAccess to free onsite baristas and cafe with daily lunch and breakfast for employees who are either onsite or hybridAccess to free onsite fitness center for employees who are either onsite or hybridAccess to a free commuter bus and ferry network that provides transport to and from our South San Francisco HQ from locations all around the Bay Areainsitro is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.We believe diversity, equity, and inclusion need to be at the foundation of our culture. We work hard to bring together diverse teams–grounded in a wide range of expertise and life experiences–and work even harder to ensure those teams thrive in inclusive, growth-oriented environments supported by equitable company and team practices. All candidates can expect equitable treatment, respect, and fairness throughout the interview process.About Insitroinsitro is a drug discovery and development company using machine learning (ML) and data at scale to decode biology for transformative medicines. At the core of insitro’s approach is the convergence of in-house generated multi-modal cellular data and high-content phenotypic human cohort data. We rely on these data to develop ML-driven, predictive disease models that uncover underlying biologic state and elucidate critical drivers of disease. These powerful models rely on extensive biological and computational infrastructure and allow insitro to advance novel targets and patient biomarkers, design therapeutics and inform clinical strategy. insitro is advancing a wholly owned and partnered pipeline of insights and therapeutics in neuroscience, oncology and metabolism. Since launching in 2018, insitro has raised over $700 million from top tech, biotech and crossover investors, and from collaborations with pharmaceutical partners. For more information on insitro, please visit levelSeniority levelMid-Senior levelEmployment typeEmployment typeFull-timeJob functionJob functionResearch, Analyst, and Information TechnologyReferrals increase your chances of interviewing at insitro by 2xGet notified about new Senior Scientist jobs in San Francisco Bay Area.Emeryville, CA $150,000.00-$170,000.00 3 days agoSenior Staff Scientist, Computational ChemistrySouth San Francisco, CA $170,000.00-$185,000.00 5 days agoMenlo Park, CA $100,000.00-$150,000.00 2 weeks agoSenior Scientist/Principal Scientist, Biochemist and Cellular NeurobiologistSouth San Francisco, CA $163,000.00-$201,000.00 5 days agoMilpitas, CA $115,900.00-$197,000.00 3 weeks agoScientist I-III/Senior/Lead - Polymer Formulation & Materials CharacterizationAlameda, CA $110,000.00-$160,000.00 1 week agoSr. Staff Scientist, Analytical DevelopmentPrincipal Scientist / Director, Clinical PharmacologySan Francisco, CA $166,000.00-$272,400.00 2 weeks agoPrincipal/Senior Scientist, Analytical ScienceSan Francisco Bay Area $55.00-$65.00 2 weeks agoSenior Scientist I/II, Biologics Analytical R&DScientist 1/2/Senior Scientist, Analytical DevelopmentSouth San Francisco, CA $156,000.00-$296,500.00 2 weeks agoAssociate Director / Senior Scientist, Product Development- 618619San Mateo, CA $170,000.00-$200,000.00 1 hour agoSouth San Francisco, CA $140,000.00-$150,000.00 6 days agoSenior Staff Scientist, Medicinal ChemistrySenior Principal Research Scientist, Analytical ChemistrySouth San Francisco, CA $156,000.00-$296,500.00 2 weeks agoSenior Scientist - Chemical Development and Drug Substance ManufacturingSr. Scientist, Small-Molecule Drug Substance Development and ManufacturingHayward, CA $150,000.00-$170,000.00 3 days agoResearch And Development Scientist, Food Product / Process DeveloperResearch Scientist - Electron Beam Source DevelopmentMilpitas, CA $130,400.00-$221,700.00 1 week agoSenior Scientist II, Analytical DevelopmentSenior Clinical Scientist (Ophthalmology)We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI. #J-18808-Ljbffr

Created: 2025-09-23