Director, Medicinal Chemistry / Chemical Biology

At Bayer we’re visionaries, driven to solve the world’s toughest challenges and striving for a world where 'Health for all Hunger for none’ is no longer a dream, but a real possibility. We’re doing it with energy, curiosity and sheer dedication, always learning from unique perspectives of those around us, expanding our thinking, growing our capabilities and redefining ‘impossible’. There are so many reasons to join us. If you’re hungry to build a varied and meaningful career in a community of brilliant and diverse minds to make a real difference, there’s only one choice.

Director, Medicinal Chemistry / Chemical Biology

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Medicinal Chemist / Drug Hunter with a strong background in Chemical Biology to join our dynamic team in the Boston/Cambridge area. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in leading projects while integrating biological insights into the drug discovery process. This role offers the opportunity to leverage expertise in both chemistry and biology to drive innovative therapeutic solutions in the field of cardiovascular research and oncology.

YOUR TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The primary responsibilities of the Medicinal Chemist / Drug Hunter are to:

• Lead and manage small molecule drug discovery projects from hit identification through lead optimization, incorporating biological relevance into the design and development process;
• Design and procure new chemical entities with a focus on potency, selectivity, and pharmacokinetics, while ensuring alignment with biological targets and mechanisms;
• Coordination of chemistry activities with CRO/external partners to ensure high productivity and efficiency;
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including computational chemists, biologists, pharmacologists, and formulation scientists, to advance projects through various stages of development;
• Mentor and guide junior team members in drug discovery techniques and project strategies;
• Co-Design biochemical/biophysical experiments and cellular studies to evaluate the efficacy and mechanism of action of novel compounds;
• Utilize a variety of chemical modalities, including small molecules, biologics, and peptides, to enhance drug discovery efforts;
• Analyze and interpret experimental data to inform project direction and decision-making, ensuring integration of chemical and biological insights;
• Communicate scientific findings and project updates effectively to both internal and external stakeholders, fostering collaboration and transparency;
• Stay current with industry trends and advancements in medicinal chemistry, chemical biology, and drug discovery.

WHO YOU ARE

Bayer seeks an incumbent who possesses the following:

Required qualifications:

• PhD in Organic Chemistry, Chemical Biology, or a related field;
• Proven expertise in small molecule design and development, complemented by a strong understanding of biological mechanisms and cellular pathways;
• Expert knowledge and fluency in modern drug discovery methods;
• Familiarity with other modalities such as biologics, peptides, or RNA-based therapeutics and chemical biology/chemoproteomic workflows;
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented, global environment;
• Strong analytical skills and a results-driven mindset.

Preferred qualifications:

• PhD in Organic Chemistry, Chemical Biology, or a related field with a minimum of 7 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry;
• Track record of publications and presentations in relevant scientific forums;

Employees can expect to be paid a salary between $ 177,771.20 - $266,656.80. Additional compensation may include a bonus or commission (if relevant). Additional benefits include healthcare, vision, dental, retirement, PTO, sick leave, etc.

This salary range is merely an estimate and may vary based on an applicant’s location, market data/ranges, skills, prior relevant experience, certain degrees and certifications, and other relevant factors.

This posting will be available for application until at least 1/16/2026.

YOUR APPLICATION
Bayer offers a wide variety of competitive compensation and benefits programs. If you meet the requirements of this unique opportunity, and want to impact our mission Science for a better life, we encourage you to apply now. Be part of something bigger. Be you. Be Bayer.
To all recruitment agencies: Bayer does not accept unsolicited third party resumes.


Bayer is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disabled/Veterans


Bayer is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations in its application process for individuals with disabilities and encourages applicants with disabilities to request any needed accommodation(s) using the contact information below.
Bayer is an E-Verify Employer. Location: United States : Massachusetts : Cambridge Division: Pharmaceuticals Reference Code: 858952 Contact Us Email: [email protected]