Senior Research Scientist, Medicinal Chemistry
IDEAYA Biosciences
September 01, 2026
Full-time
On-site
South San Francisco, CA
Clinical Research and Development
Role: Senior Medicinal Chemist contributing to oncology drug discovery programs by designing and synthesizing complex molecules to advance clinical candidates. Responsibilities include applying modern synthetic techniques, troubleshooting reactions, planning multi-step syntheses, and leveraging structure-based design and SAR data to optimize compound profiles. The position involves delivering molecules from milligram to multi-gram scales, managing external resources, and presenting findings across teams. Requirements: Ph.D. in synthetic organic chemistry with 0-3 years pharma industry experience; expertise in asymmetric reactions, cross-coupling, purification, and spectroscopic characterization; strong scientific record-keeping, problem-solving, and communication skills; ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary team. Preferred qualifications include familiarity with structure-based design, ADME principles, and drug-like property optimization. High-value details: focus on oncology, with emphasis on small molecules targeting genetic drivers; contribution to preclinical and early clinical development; location in South San Francisco, CA, with onsite work required; salary range $148K-$183K. The role emphasizes integrity, safety, and compliance within a collaborative, innovative environment dedicated to precision oncology therapeutics.