Head of Computational Chemistry

Head of Computational Chemistry

Principal Scientist, Head of Computational Chemistry, Argau Canton , Switzerland, Permanent job

The company is a rapidly growing biotech company focusing on solving structures of membrane protein drug targets (e.g. GPCRs, ion-channels and transporters) for the discovery and optimization of next-generation medicines. Based on a unique platform for membrane protein expression, purification and engineering, and preferential access to synchrotron and free electron laser beamlines for X-ray analysis and cryo-EM facilities, they characterize the interaction of small molecules and biotherapeutics with drug targets in time to impact the discovery of novel therapeutics.

• Utilize modern molecular modelling methods to support different stages of R&D programs.
• Collaborate effectively with other functions to advance research discovery projects expeditiously from early target assessment to hit-to-lead and lead optimization.
• Design, lead and drive computational studies on projects throughout the several discovery phases and ensure execution on agreed deliverables.
• Set the vision and strategy for computational chemistry.
• Manage data warehousing for lead discovery projects using CDD Vault to facilitate secure and efficient data management and collaboration.
• Collaborate with external partners on joint drug discovery projects.
• Present plans and results internally, including at board level, and externally at conferences.
• Keep up to date with the latest scientific advances and trends in drug discovery to deliver the next-generation therapies.

• MSc / PhD in a relevant scientific discipline (Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, Computational Chemistry) with a solid foundation in molecular modelling built in a pharma / biotech / CRO setting.
• Expert knowledge in CADD software packages and modern molecular modelling techniques.
• Sound knowledge in cutting-edge cheminformatic tools, AI / ML-enabled technologies, and in silico drug design, including both structure- and ligand-based methodologies.
• Passion for drug discovery with a deep understanding of membrane protein drug targets (e.g. GPCRs, ion-channels and transporters).
• Mastery of all the theoretical and practical principles of medicinal chemistry and drug design.
• Broad knowledge of biophysical, biochemical, and cell-based assays used in the early stages of the drug discovery process.
• In depth understanding of multi-parameter optimization and ability to integrate disease biology, ADME / DMPK and toxicology data to solve complex drug discovery problems.
• Excellent leadership, management, organizational and team-working skills, and a talent to deliver project milestones within the expected time frame.
• Demonstrated track record of scientific publications.

• You will be working for an innovative company aiming to discover new generation medic
• You will be working with state-of-art technologies
• You will be working in a supportive and dynamic team
• Share options bonus

It is essential that applicants hold entitlement to work in Switzerland. Please quote job reference 156433 in all correspondence.