We are seeking an accomplished Director of Medicinal Chemistry to join a highly innovative, structure-driven drug discovery organisation operating at the forefront of small-molecule therapeutics.
This is a senior scientific leadership role within a multidisciplinary discovery environment that integrates medicinal chemistry, structural biology, biophysics, and computational design to accelerate the development of high-quality drug candidates.
The Role
As Director of Medicinal Chemistry, you will provide strategic and hands-on leadership across multiple discovery programmes, shaping chemistry strategy from hit identification through lead optimisation and into candidate selection.
You will work closely with senior leaders in structural biology, biology, and computational sciences to drive rational, data-led design and deliver differentiated assets for internal and partnered programmes.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and mentor a high-performing team of medicinal chemists across multiple programmes
* Define medicinal chemistry strategy aligned with structure-based drug design principles
* Drive compound design, optimisation, and decision-making using project data and structural insights
* Partner closely with structural biology, biophysics, DMPK, and biology teams
* Contribute to portfolio strategy, project prioritisation, and scientific governance
* Support external collaborations and act as a scientific interface for partners and stakeholders
* Ensure high scientific standards, innovation, and delivery across the chemistry function
About You
* PhD in Medicinal Chemistry or a closely related discipline
* Extensive industry experience in small-molecule drug discovery
* Proven track record of advancing projects through lead optimisation and candidate selection
* Strong expertise in structure-based drug design and modern medicinal chemistry approaches
* Demonstrated experience leading and developing scientific teams
* Strategic thinker with a hands-on, collaborative leadership style
* Excellent communication skills and confidence operating at senior scientific level
Why Join?
* Work in a science-led organisation with world-class structural and discovery capabilities
* Influence high-impact programmes in a highly collaborative environment
* Opportunity to shape medicinal chemistry strategy at a senior level
* Competitive compensation and benefits package
* Flexible, modern working culture