Principal Medicinal Chemist

22h22 hours ago

Deep Origin

Shanghai, CN · Full-time · CNY 700,000 – CNY 1,200,000

About this role

Deep Origin is a biotechnology company building an operating system for science that transforms life science research. Our AI-powered platforms simulate biology, streamline R&D workflows, and model complex biological systems at scale. We seek a Principal Medicinal Chemist to lead small-molecule drug discovery from hit identification to development candidate selection.

This senior hands-on role requires deep medicinal chemistry expertise and strategic thinking. Design and execute strategies integrating computational and AI-driven approaches into workflows. Guide teams and partners toward impactful drug discovery outcomes.

Lead chemistry efforts in cross-functional teams with computational scientists, biologists, and ML engineers. Manage external CRO partnerships for timely delivery. Collaborate remotely with international teams in ambiguous scientific environments.

Advance programs through key milestones like Hit-to-Lead and Lead Optimization. Contribute to predictive toxicology and whole-human modeling initiatives. Accelerate the mission to reduce disease and extend human healthspan through exceptional talent.

Requirements

PhD in Organic Chemistry or a related field with 3-8 years of industry experience in medicinal chemistry (or MS with 5-10 years, BS with 8-15 years)
Proven track record of advancing drug discovery programs through Hit-to-Lead and Lead Optimization
Deep expertise in synthetic organic chemistry, including modern methods and reaction mechanisms
Strong experience in structure-based and ligand-based drug design
Demonstrated ability to optimize compounds for potency, selectivity, and DMPK/safety properties
Experience managing external CROs and collaborating across disciplines
Excellent English communication skills to present complex scientific concepts
Experience working remotely with international teams

Responsibilities

Propose and independently drive medicinal chemistry strategies from hit identification through lead optimization to development candidate selection
Lead chemistry efforts within cross-functional project teams including computational scientists, biologists, and ML engineers
Design novel compounds using structure-based and ligand-based approaches to optimize potency, selectivity, and drug-like properties
Analyze SAR data and guide iterative design cycles to balance potency, selectivity, and physico-chemical properties
Contribute to and integrate AI-driven and computational modeling insights into compound design strategies
Serve as a technical leader and mentor for internal chemists and external collaborators
Manage external CRO partnerships to ensure high-quality and timely delivery of chemistry objectives
Author and contribute to patent applications, scientific publications, and internal reports