Director, Discovery Process Chemistry

Director, Discovery Process Chemistry – West Point, PA

Throughout the drug discovery lifecycle, sustained investment in innovative chemistry inspires design and enables the synthesis of the best molecules. The Discovery Process Chemistry (DPC) group partners with discovery teams to advance programs into uncharted chemical space and transition lead compounds into development.

We are seeking a highly motivated individual to function as the Director of the West Point Discovery Process Chemistry team, managing a portfolio of preclinical projects and a team of discovery process chemists.

• Direct supervisory responsibility for approximately 7-10 scientists, including recruiting, performance appraisal, development, and personnel decisions such as promotions, merit increases, and staff closures.
• Oversee new route design, synthetic methodology development, and support API campaigns for discovery and preclinical efforts.
• Transfer technical information to support API preparation across internal sites and in collaboration with external partners.
• Perform proactive resource planning, risk assessment, drug substance supply/demand forecasting, and budget management.
• Ensure rapid and successful transition of compounds from discovery research into development by collaborating closely with discovery and preclinical colleagues.
• Serve as a core‑team member for a discovery review committee, overseeing the discovery portfolio in a therapeutic area and influencing approval of potential candidates for preclinical development.
• Establish, recommend, and maintain external contacts for the West Point DPC team, including interaction with the local academic community.

• Ph.D. in Chemistry or a related biopharmaceutical science is required.
• Five or more years of experience in drug discovery and/or early drug development.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross‑functional groups.
• Track record of employee development and retention.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and collaboration skills.
• Deep understanding of the interplay between medicinal chemistry SAR, molecule physical properties, and preclinical safety assessment workflows.
• Subject‑matter expertise in Discovery Process Chemistry, Process Chemistry, or Medicinal Chemistry, especially regarding early clinical development.
• Ability to deliver results on firm deadlines and to prioritize a portfolio of projects.
• International recognition in pharmaceutical development, including peer‑reviewed publications and external research presentations.

Salary range: $ – $. Eligible for annual bonus and long‑term incentive, if applicable.

Benefits include medical, dental, vision, insurance, retirement (401(k)), paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate and sick days.

As an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, we provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, and other legally protected characteristics. As a federal contractor, we comply with all affirmative action requirements for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Requisition : R402258

Job Posting End Date: 06/27/2026