VRS Recruitment
A successful biotechnology company, based near Cambridge, developing innovative small molecule therapies is seeking an experienced Principal Scientist – Medicinal Chemistry to play a key scientific leadership role within its drug discovery organisation.
This is an excellent opportunity for an accomplished medicinal chemist with a strong track record in small molecule drug discovery, specifically Antibody Drug Conjugates. You will work within multidisciplinary teams, helping to drive programmes from early discovery through to candidate selection while contributing to the scientific strategy of the organisation.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and implement innovative medicinal chemistry strategies to address key drug discovery challenges
- Lead or contribute to project teams, driving programmes towards candidate selection
- Line manage and mentor medicinal and synthetic chemists
- Interpret complex datasets and direct future experimental strategies
- Work closely with multidisciplinary teams across biology, pharmacology, DMPK, biophysics and structural biology.
- Manage relationships with external collaborators and CRO partners, ensuring high-quality delivery of chemistry programmes.
Candidate Profile:
- A PhD in Chemistry or a related discipline, with significant postdoctoral and/or industry experience
- Extensive expertise in medicinal chemistry, synthetic chemistry and structure-based drug design
- A proven track record of advancing antibody drug conjugate (ADC) drug discovery programmes with experience of designing and developing novel linker and payload components
- Previous line management, mentoring or leadership experience
- Excellent communication and presentation skills
- Experience working with external collaborators, CROs or strategic partners
What's on Offer?
- Opportunity to play a leading role in cutting-edge drug discovery programmes
- Highly collaborative and science-driven environment
- Significant influence on project strategy and decision-making
- Exposure to multidisciplinary research teams and external collaborations
- Career-defining opportunity within a growing biotechnology company focused on developing transformative medicines.
- Hybrid working model</strong>; 1-2 days/week required on site at company HQ near Cambridge
VRS9459SE
To apply for this job please visit www.reed.co.uk.
Make this application stronger
Use these quick checks before applying so your CV, interview preparation and job search are better matched to this vacancy.
Before you apply
Check the key details and make sure the role matches what you are looking for.
- Review the job title, company, location, salary and working pattern if provided.
- Check the skills, experience or qualifications requested by the employer.
- Make sure the commute, hours and contract type are realistic for you.
Tailor your CV
Match your CV to the skills, experience and responsibilities mentioned in this advert. Keep it honest, clear and focused on what the employer is asking for.
Use the CV Builder or browse Career Advice.
Prepare for interview
If your application is successful, prepare simple examples that show your motivation, strengths and suitability.
Keep searching smarter
Do not rely on one application. Keep searching similar roles and set up alerts so new vacancies reach you faster.
