Principal Scientist, Medicinal Chemistry

JOB SUMMARY We seek an experienced and creative medicinal chemist with a proven track record of success in drug discovery. Candidates should be motivated to work in an intensely collaborative, multidisciplinary, team-based setting. The ideal candidate will be passionate about solving medicinal chemistry challenges, as well as proactively interfacing with diverse teams working on automated experimentation, AI-driven molecular generation, property predictions, and bioassay data generation. This position is on-site at our San Diego Headquarters. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Devise strategies to identify lead molecules and optimize them for potency, selectivity, and ADME properties using multivariant SAR analysis and hypothesis driven design principles. - Execute on high quality ideas by employing a broad range of modern organic chemistry transformations, synthetic methods, creative use of parallel experimentations and implementing innovative techniques. - Work closely with molecular and cellular biology, pharmacology, computational chemistry, ADME, and other key functions - Influence the prospective use of computational methods and leverage automated synthesis and high-throughput experimentation capabilities - Work closely with AI/ML teams to develop and implement relevant predictive models to aid in the design of new molecules - Communicate project updates clearly and effectively to the broader team and key stakeholders - Work as a member of the Chemistry research group and foster a culture of scientific excellence, innovation, and teamwork QUALIFICATIONS - BS, MS, or PhD in chemistry with a focus on synthetic organic chemistry - Experience in small molecule drug discovery in a biotechnology or pharmaceutical setting and a B.S. with 15+ years’ experience, M.S. with 12+ years’ experience or Ph.D. with 8+ years’ experience. - Proven track record of success in advancing programs from leads to advanced candidates. - Extensive experience in lead compound optimization for potency