Director or Associate Director of Medicinal Chemistry
ALLEN SPOLDEN - La Jolla, CA
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Job Description We are looking for an innovative and experienced medicinal chemist who has a strong history of success in drug discovery. The ideal candidate will thrive in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment and will be eager to lead and coordinate a medicinal chemistry team while interfacing with a variety of teams using automated experimentation, AI-driven molecular generation, property predictions, and bioassay data generation. Key Responsibilities Lead a team of medicinal chemists to drive the discovery of development and clinical candidates. Develop strategies to identify and optimize lead molecules for potency, selectivity, and ADME properties using multivariant SAR analysis and hypothesis-driven design principles. Collaborate closely with teams in molecular and cellular biology, pharmacology, computational chemistry, and ADME. Function as the liaison between our organization, CROs, and various external partners. Utilize computational methods and leverage automated synthesis and high-throughput experimentation capabilities. Work in tandem with AI/ML teams to create and apply predictive models for new molecular designs. Effectively communicate project updates to the broader team and key stakeholders. Contribute as a senior member of the Chemistry research group, promoting a culture of scientific excellence, innovation, and teamwork. Preferred Qualifications A Ph.D. or Postdoc in organic chemistry with 8+ years of experience in pharmaceutical or biotech drug discovery. Expertise in modern synthetic organic chemistry approaches validated by publications in scientific journals and patents. Capability to integrate various R&D disciplines into a coherent and successful project plan. Proven experience in leading projects and advancing them through the preclinical development process. Experience collaborating with computational chemists in drug target design is essential. Exceptional interpersonal, communication, time management, and leadership skills. Experience in mentoring or leading junior chemists. Strong problem-solving abilities and adept at managing relationships with multiple stakeholders within and outside the company. Benefits We offer a comprehensive benefits package including dental, medical, vision, and a 401K plan.
Created: 2026-03-12