Senior Director, AIRx Medicinal Chemistry

Senior Director, AIRx Medicinal Chemistry

Purpose/Role:
Medicinal chemistry at speed—evaluating generative AI molecular design proposals, applying deep SAR judgment, and directing CRO synthesis to close DMTA cycles faster than traditional discovery teams.

Accountabilities:
- Design and optimize drug candidates using deep SAR, multi-parameter optimization, and ADME-embedded design principles
- Critically evaluate AI/ML-generated proposals and integrate them with medicinal chemistry judgment
- Partner with Computational Chemistry to close DMTA cycles rapidly and define next design iterations
- Provide strategic oversight of CRO synthesis programs (compound lists, review routes, ensure quality/timelines)
- Embed selectivity, developability, and IP considerations in design decisions
- Interpret structural biology data (X-ray, cryo-EM) to guide optimization
- Stay current with competitive chemical matter and emerging chemistry approaches
- Contribute experimental data to AI/ML training datasets in standardized, decision-ready format

Qualifications & Competencies:
- PhD in medicinal chemistry or organic chemistry
- 12–15+ years drug discovery experience; strong lead optimization and candidate nomination track record
- SAR-driven design, ADME optimization, multi-parameter optimization across programs
- CRO program direction; vendor oversight and delivery management
- Working knowledge of AI/ML design tools; ability to challenge computational outputs
- Structure-based drug design; read/apply protein-ligand structural data
- Therapeutic-area experience across Takeda Research portfolio (preferred)
- Experience in SWAT/rapid-response/focused asset environments; thrives in productive urgency

Additional Info:
- Cambridge, MA; classified as “hybrid”

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