Head of Medicinal Chemistry and Early Research

6d6 days ago

Ridgeline Discovery

Basel, CH · Full-time · CHF 300,000 – CHF 450,000

About this role

Ridgeline Discovery, a Versant Ventures Discovery Engine, creates and operates Versant-financed innovative biotech companies in partnership with entrepreneurs, industry, and leading academics across Europe. The company has assembled an international team of >50 highly experienced drug discovery professionals and built multiple successful companies that raised significant funds. We seek an experienced drug discovery leader to strengthen RNA-focused small molecule discovery efforts and support new portfolio companies.

The ideal candidate operates at the intersection of science and company-building, shaping pipeline strategy, building capabilities, and ensuring capital-efficient progression from target identification through candidate nomination. They will lead medicinal chemistry efforts across hit-to-lead and lead optimization phases. Strong track record in leading small molecule programs is essential, with RNA-targeted experience a strong advantage.

Join an international, diverse, and highly collaborative team of talented, passionate, and science-driven individuals. Work in an innovative environment where new ideas are encouraged and cutting-edge science thrives. Partner closely with biology and translational teams while managing CRO and external research partnerships.

Build and mentor a high-performing early research team while driving scientific strategy across RNA-focused programs. Gain direct involvement in key scientific and strategic decisions, asset progression, and platform differentiation. Represent the company at scientific conferences, board meetings, and investor presentations.

Requirements

PhD in Medicinal Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, or related discipline
15+ years of pharmaceutical or biotech drug discovery experience
Proven track record of leading small molecule programs to candidate nomination
Experience in RNA-targeted small molecule discovery strongly preferred
Strong understanding of SAR strategy and synthetic chemistry
Familiarity with biophysical RNA-binding assays and structural biology
Strong understanding of intellectual property strategy and patent authorship
Entrepreneurial mindset and ability to operate in early-stage biotech environments

Responsibilities

Define and execute RNA-focused small molecule discovery strategies
Lead medicinal chemistry efforts across hit-to-lead and lead optimization
Develop robust SAR strategies and data-driven decision frameworks
Advance structured RNA-targeting approaches, including collaboration on assay and structural biology development
Build and mentor a high-performing early research team
Drive scientific strategy and execution across RNA-focused early discovery programs, partnering closely with biology and translational teams
Manage and oversee CRO and external research partnerships
Represent the company at scientific conferences, board meetings, and investor presentations

Benefits

International, diverse, and highly collaborative team of talented, passionate, and science-driven individuals
Innovative and creative environment where new ideas are encouraged and cutting-edge science thrives
Support for individual development of employees
Opportunity to help build and shape new biotech companies with direct impact on value creation
Opportunity to shape and expand a differentiated RNA-targeted discovery platform
Direct involvement in key scientific and strategic decisions