Vice President, Chemistry

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Position Summary
MBX Biosciences is looking for an experienced and visionary leader with a proven track record in identifying novel targets and developing innovative peptide-based treatments for endocrine diseases. The Vice President of Chemistry will lead and enhance our peptide discovery, design, and development efforts. This role is crucial for identifying new peptide drug candidates and guiding them from early discovery into clinical development, leveraging our proprietary Precision Endocrine Peptide (PEP) platform.

Our PEP platform was invented by Dr. Richard DiMarchi, the inventor of Humalog and the first GLP-1/GIP co-agonist. This role provides a unique opportunity to build upon and expand a clinically-proven technology platform.

The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in peptide chemistry and a successful history of innovative peptide discovery and structure-activity relationship (SAR) optimization. By collaborating cross-functionally with teams in discovery biology, pharmacology, CMC, and regulatory affairs, this individual will help advance a robust and differentiated pipeline of first-in-class and best-in-class peptide therapeutics.

Key Responsibilities

• Spearhead groundbreaking research in peptide chemistry, driving innovation in synthesis and optimization to propel preclinical and clinical programs forward.
• Champion the advancement of state-of-the-art peptide synthesis techniques, harnessing both solid-phase and solution-phase methodologies to achieve remarkable results.
• Lead comprehensive structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies to significantly enhance the potency, stability, and pharmacokinetic profiles of peptides as well as expand our technology platform.
• Inspire and mentor a dynamic team of elite peptide chemists, fostering a culture of innovation and technical excellence that sets new industry standards.
• Collaborate seamlessly with cross-functional teams—including pharmacology, toxicology, and CMC—to ensure that our peptide chemistry initiatives align with and support overarching drug development objectives.
• Cultivate and nurture strategic partnerships with external collaborators, contract research organizations (CROs), and esteemed academic institutions to elevate peptide research and development to new heights.
• Stay at the cutting edge of peptide chemistry advancements, integrating pioneering technologies and methodologies to maximize efficiency and achieve superior outcomes.
• Uphold the highest standards of regulatory compliance, intellectual property protection, and quality control throughout the peptide development process.
• Play a pivotal role in shaping corporate strategy, budgeting, and operational planning as an integral member of the expanded leadership team, driving our mission forward.
• Other responsibilities as assigned.

Education & Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Peptide Chemistry, or a related field.
• 15+ years of experience in peptide chemistry, with a proven track record in peptide drug discovery and development.
• Strong expertise in solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS), purification, and characterization techniques (HPLC, MS, NMR).
• Demonstrated creativity and intellectual curiosity.
• Experience in peptide modifications, conjugation strategies, and improving metabolic stability.
• Leadership experience in an industry setting, with a demonstrated ability to manage multidisciplinary teams.
• Deep understanding of CMC requirements for peptide-based therapeutics, including scale-up and manufacturing processes.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, strategic thinking, and ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
• Strong publication records and/or patents in the field of peptide chemistry are highly desirable.
• Outstanding scientific leadership and collaboration skills.
• Outstanding interpersonal skills, self-awareness, and ability to manage team dynamics.

Company Overview
MBX Biosciences, Inc. (NASDAQ: MBX) is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery and development of novel precision peptide therapies for the treatment of endocrine and metabolic disorders.…