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Senior Research Scientist, Medicinal Chemistry

IDEAYA Biosciences
September 01, 2026
Full-time
Remote friendly (South San Francisco, CA)
Worldwide
Other
Role: Discovery medicinal chemist focused on advancing oncology programs through innovative molecule design and synthesis. Responsibilities: apply modern synthetic techniques, design and troubleshoot complex reactions, deliver molecules from milligram to multi-gram scales, manage external resources, and leverage SAR and structure-based design to optimize compounds. Requirements: Ph.D. in synthetic organic chemistry with 0-3 years industry experience; expertise in asymmetric reactions, cross-coupling, purification, and spectroscopic characterization; strong record-keeping and problem-solving skills; excellent communication; ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment; knowledge of medicinal chemistry principles including structure-based design, SAR, ADME, and pharmacology. High-Value: Oncology (solid tumors), drug discovery, small molecules, early to late-stage lead optimization, on-site in South San Francisco. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and reporting to Vice President, Medicinal Chemistry. Location: Onsite five days/week, with work-from-home flexibility; required to be vaccinated for COVID-19.