Director, Medicinal Chemistry

Role: Lead medicinal chemistry efforts within a CNS GPCR drug discovery program, guiding small-molecule candidate progression from hit-to-lead to IND-ready. Responsibilities: Manage internal and CRO-based chemistry teams, prioritize work, resolve synthetic challenges, and develop new molecules aligned with target profiles; contribute to strategy and IP development; analyze SAR and ADME data; leverage structure-based design and computational tools; communicate findings to multidisciplinary teams. Requirements: BS/MS in Chemistry; PhD preferred; 10+ years in medicinal chemistry, with leadership experience, especially in biotech/pharma; expertise in CNS targets, drug discovery stages, synthetic chemistry, pharmacology, ADME, and IP; proven ability to lead remote teams and manage outsourced chemistry vendors; strong problem-solving, innovation mindset, and effective communication skills. HighValue: CNS, neurodegenerative or sleep-wake disorders, small molecules, hit-to-IND progression, experience with digital tools and AI in drug discovery. WorkSetup: Remote with occasional travel; salary $150K–$210K plus bonus and benefits.