Head of Chemistry

We are seeking an experienced Head of Bioconjugation/Chemistry to join our dynamic technology platform team. As a key leader, you will play a pivotal role in advancing our efforts in the discovery and development of cutting-edge oncology therapeutics by combining the power of targeted protein homeostasis with the precision of antibodies. We are looking for a candidate with a demonstrated track record of success in leading drug discovery projects, possessing a profound understanding of bioconjugation chemistry principles and drug discovery techniques, and a strong track record of delivering impactful portfolio achievements.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities.

•  Formulate and implement innovative strategies to address critical project objectives, offering creative solutions for medicinal and synthetic chemistry challenges when working with novel protein degraders, linkers, and antibody-drug conjugates.
• Collaborate proactively with various functional teams, including computational chemistry, DMPK, in vivo pharmacology, CMC, and more, to ensure the successful progression of drug discovery projects.
• Identify, establish, and lead partnerships with CRO partners and implement strategies to improve operational efficiency and best practices.
• Actively participate in the identification and nomination of emerging cancer targets at the forefront of the field and the establishment of new drug discovery programs in our portfolio.
• Clearly and effectively communicate strategy and provide progress updates to cross-functional project teams and scientific leadership.
• Contribute to the development and execution of IP strategy in collaboration with intellectual property attorneys.
• Present and publish project results in external scientific meetings and peer-reviewed literature to enhance the company's scientific reputation.
• Coach and mentor scientists across the discovery function, fostering their professional growth and enhancing organizational capabilities.

Skills, Abilities & Competencies

• Expertise in communication with strategic partners, executive leadership, and KOLs.
• Profound expertise in bioconjugation chemistry, including new and emerging linker and release trigger technologies, analytical methods, and structure-based design.
• Current knowledge of synthetic and medicinal chemistry, with the ability to identify opportunities for advancing science in these fields.
• High level of creativity and productivity, coupled with strong problem-solving skills.
• Deep knowledge of ADME, physicochemical, biochemical, and pharmacological principles as applied to ADC discovery.
• Extensive experience in collaborating closely with other functional areas, such as biology, computational chemistry, DMPK, in vivo pharmacology, CMC, and more.
• A proven track record of portfolio success, having successfully guided projects to the identification of high-quality drug candidates.
• Familiarity with various small molecules drug discovery modalities such as small molecule inhibitors, PPI inducers including PROTACs and MGs, etc. is a plus.
• Collaborative team player with exceptional oral and written communication skills, including the ability to present rationale, data, issues, and accomplishments of the team.
• Strong skills in gathering and analyzing competitive information from scientific sources such as patents and meetings and employing this information to guide program strategy.
• Strong desire to mentor junior team members to increase their bioconjugation and medicinal chemistry knowledge and skill set.

Education- Ph.D. or equivalent degree in organic/medicinal chemistry or a related field with minimum 15+ years' industrial experience   

*U.S. citizens and those authorized to work in the U.S. (green card) are encouraged to apply. We are unable to sponsor at this time.

*Candidate must be able to pass a background investigation.

*Unable to work with 3rd party candidates or agencies.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily within the context of the representative work environment and physical demands described above. Likewise, qualifications listed are representative of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the position’s essential functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Orum Therapeutics is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE