Director, Discovery Process Chemistry

Merck•Upper Gwynedd Township, PA

2d•$173,200 - $272,600•Onsite

About The Position

Throughout the drug discovery lifecycle, sustained investment in innovative chemistry can inspire design and enable the synthesis of the best molecules. In this context, the Discovery Process Chemistry (DPC) group works in partnership with Discovery teams to advance programs into uncharted chemical space and subsequently 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. The successful candidate is responsible for managing a portfolio of preclinical projects and a team of discovery process chemists at our West Point site. This role will be part of the Discovery Process Chemistry leadership team and contribute to key scientific, strategic, and business decisions facing the function.

Requirements

Ph.D. in Chemistry or related biopharmaceutical science is required.
Five or more years’ experience in drug discovery and/or early drug development.
Demonstrated ability in leading cross-functional groups.
Track record and commitment to employee development/retention.
Excellent interpersonal, communication, and collaboration skills.
An understanding of the interplay between medicinal chemistry SAR, molecule physical properties, and preclinical safety assessment workflows will be critical.
Subject matter expertise in Discovery Process Chemistry, Process Chemistry, or Medicinal Chemistry, especially regarding early clinical development is expected.
Strength in delivering results on firm deadlines.
Demonstrated ability in selection and prioritization of a portfolio of projects.
Internationally recognized in pharmaceutical development area with a track record of peer-reviewed publications and external research presentations.

Nice To Haves

Bioanalytical Analysis
Catalysis (Inactive)
Chemical Biology
Creativity
Cross-Cultural Awareness
Data Analysis
Medicinal Chemistry
Mentoring Staff
People Leadership
Peptide Chemistry
Process Chemistry
Professional Networking
Project Leadership
Strategic Thinking
Synthetic Chemistry

Responsibilities

Manage a portfolio of preclinical projects and a team of discovery process chemists.
Contribute to key scientific, strategic, and business decisions facing the function as part of the Discovery Process Chemistry leadership team.
Directly supervise approximately 7-10 scientists working within multidisciplinary teams.
Responsible for recruiting, appraisal, and development of personnel.
Select, train, and recommend transfers, merit increases, promotions, and closures of personnel.
Oversee new route design, synthetic methodology development, and support of API campaigns for discovery and preclinical efforts.
Transfer appropriate technical information to support the preparation of API across internal sites and in collaboration with external partners.
Perform proactive resourcing planning, risk assessment strategies, drug substance supply/demand, and budget management.
Ensure the successful and rapid transition of compounds from discovery research into development by closely interacting with discovery and preclinical colleagues.
Serve as a member of the core-team for a discovery review committee responsible for oversight of the discovery portfolio in a therapeutic area, including influence in approval of potential candidates for preclinical development.
Establish, recommend, and maintain external contacts for West Point DPC, including interaction with the local academic community.