Director, Medicinal Chemistry (Biotechnology)

Location: San Diego, California, United States; five days per week on-site

Salary: $197,600–$296,400 per year, plus eligibility for an annual bonus and equity awards.

Company

Vertex is a global biotechnology company focused on scientific innovation and improved patient outcomes.

What you will do

• Lead medicinal chemistry strategy for small-molecule discovery programs and portfolio objectives.
• Direct compound design, organic synthesis, lead optimization, and candidate selection.
• Guide SAR analysis and data-driven decisions across discovery-stage programs.
• Partner with biology, DMPK, toxicology, and pharmaceutical sciences teams on program advancement.
• Integrate drug properties, developability, and translational considerations into chemistry strategy.
• Manage, mentor, and develop chemistry scientists while overseeing external research collaborations and communicating recommendations to senior leadership.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Chemistry or a related discipline with 9+ years of relevant postdoctoral industry experience; or a Master’s degree with 12+ years; or a Bachelor’s degree with 15+ years of relevant industry experience.
• Significant medicinal chemistry and small-molecule drug discovery experience.
• Demonstrated success advancing discovery programs through candidate selection.
• Experience leading cross-functional and multidisciplinary teams, including in matrixed environments.
• Proven ability to mentor scientists and provide strategic scientific leadership.
• Strong communication, strategic thinking, decision-making, prioritization, and problem-solving skills.

Culture & Benefits

• On-site work with ad hoc flexibility.
• Medical, dental, and vision benefits with paid time off, including summer and winter company shutdowns.
• Educational assistance programs, including student loan repayment.
• Commuting subsidy, matching charitable donations, and 401(k).
• Continuous learning focused on advances in AI, technology, automation, and industry trends.