Director, Medicinal Chemistry - ❤️ : Job Details

About Simcere:

Simcere Pharmaceutical Group is an innovation-driven pharmaceutical company committed to Providing Today's Patients with Medicines of the Future. Our core therapeutic areas include oncology, central nervous system (CNS) disorders, autoimmunity, and infectious diseases. We are continuously expanding into areas with significant unmet medical needs. Our Cambridge, MA site is dedicated to cutting-edge research aligned with the company strategic directions.

Position Summary

We are seeking an accomplished Director of Medicinal Chemistry with deep expertise in synthetic organic chemistry and over a decade of experience in pharmaceutical or leading biotechnology companies. The ideal candidate will bring over 5 years of project leadership, with a strong track record of advancing drug discovery programs into the clinic. This role offers the opportunity to contribute strategically and scientifically to innovative programs across multiple therapeutic areas, particularly those involving new modalities such as siRNA, antisense oligonucleotides (ASO), antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), and PROTACs.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage medicinal chemistry projects from hit identification through clinical candidate nomination and IND-enabling studies.
• Develop and execute innovative medicinal chemistry strategies aligned with program goals and company objectives.
• Oversee the design, synthesis, and optimization of small molecules and novel modalities.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with biology, DMPK, and clinical teams to ensure project alignment and timely progression.
• Serve as the scientific point person and strategic driver for external partnerships and CRO collaborations.
• Mentor and develop junior scientists, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and scientific rigor.
• Present program updates and strategy to senior leadership and external stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Synthetic Organic Chemistry or related field.
• 10+ years of experience in medicinal chemistry within pharmaceutical or leading biotech organizations.
• Proven project leadership experience of 5+ years, with demonstrated success in progressing candidates to clinical development.
• Strong knowledge of modern drug discovery, including experience with siRNA, ASO, ADCs, and/or PROTACs.
• Excellent scientific, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced, and collaborative environment.

Preferred Attributes

• Experience working with external partners and CROs globally.
• Strategic mindset with hands-on ability to troubleshoot and drive progress.
• Publications or patents that demonstrate innovative scientific contributions.