Director​/Sr. Director​/Exec. Director Computational Chemistry, Advanced Molecular Design

Director/Sr. Director/Exec. Director Computational Chemistry, Advanced Molecular Design

Eli Lilly and Company | Posted Mar 13 | Full-time

Lilly’s Advanced Molecular Design (AMD) team is responsible for small molecule lead optimization with rapid progress toward new clinical candidates. We are looking for experienced drug discovery experts who will apply cutting‑edge computational chemistry tools in close collaboration with medicinal chemistry and structural biology teams. The ideal candidate will have a holistic approach to drug discovery and strong interpersonal collaboration skills.

• Lead structure‑based design efforts for lead/late‑stage optimization of small molecule therapeutics across therapeutic areas.
• Prioritize medicinal chemistry efforts through critical analysis and effective decision‑making, driving highly focused work and rapid progress.
• Ensure timely delivery of data and results to project teams to enable rapid iterative design cycles.
• Maintain critical timelines and set team expectations for efficient delivery of clinical candidates.
• Contribute to decision‑making at higher levels, including prioritization of the overall small‑molecule discovery portfolio.
• Collaborate with AMD and therapeutic area leaders to move the portfolio from leads to quality drug candidates with breakthrough potential.
• Evaluate external technologies and related business‑development opportunities.

• PhD in Chemistry, Biophysics, or related discipline with 6–15 years of drug discovery research experience.

• Deep scientific background in computational chemistry to guide compound optimization for medicinal chemists.
• Proven ability to collaborate across disciplines and achieve project goals and timelines.
• Experience mentoring early‑career computational chemists.
• Strong commitment to patient outcomes and a track record of success in drug discovery.
• Creative thinking for optimization of lead series across multiple projects.
• Broad understanding of small‑molecule–protein interactions, ADME, and toxicology.
• Proactive and highly engaged problem‑solving ability.
• Staying current with industry developments, AI, and machine‑learning models.
• Deep knowledge of lead optimization using structure‑based design.
• Adaptability to changing research priorities.

The physical demands of this job are consistent with an office environment. Travel may be required.

This is an onsite position located in San Francisco, California or Louisville, Colorado.

Lilly is an equal‑opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, gender identity, sex, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.

Anticipated wage: $193,500 – $338,800. Full‑time employees are also eligible for a company bonus and a comprehensive benefits program that includes 401(k), pension, vacation, medical, dental, vision, prescription drug, flexible spending accounts, life and death insurance, time off and leave of absence, and well‑being benefits.