Principal Medicinal Chemist

6d6 days ago

Deep Origin

US · Full-time · $170,000 – $240,000

About this role

Deep Origin is building an AI-powered operating system for science that simulates biology and streamlines R&D workflows. We seek a Principal Medicinal Chemist to lead small-molecule drug discovery from hit identification through development candidate selection. This senior role demands hands-on expertise in medicinal chemistry and integration of computational approaches.

Design and execute medicinal chemistry strategies, analyzing SAR data to optimize potency, selectivity, and DMPK properties. Integrate AI-driven and computational modeling into compound design cycles. Propose novel compounds using structure-based and ligand-based methods for drug-like properties.

Lead chemistry efforts in cross-functional teams with computational scientists, biologists, and ML engineers. Manage external CRO partnerships for timely delivery. Work remotely with international teams, communicating complex concepts clearly.

Join strategic government-backed initiatives scaling whole-human modeling and predictive toxicology. Advance mission to reduce disease and extend healthspan as technical leader and mentor. Contribute to patents, publications, and internal reports.

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
High level of creativity, productivity, and independent problem-solving ability
Experience managing external CROs and collaborating across disciplines
Excellent English communication skills with ability to present complex scientific concepts

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