Group Leader - Medicinal Chemistry

Cancer Research UK; Babraham; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Cancer Research UK is seeking a Group Leader in Medicinal Chemistry to lead a high-performing team at the Babraham Research Campus. This role requires a PhD in Chemistry and extensive drug discovery experience, contributing to groundbreaking cancer research while fostering a supportive and innovative environment.

Benefits

Supportive environment

Career development

Generous benefits

Flexible working

Opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemistry or equivalent experience required.
• Extensive medicinal chemistry experience in drug discovery expected.
• Proven track record delivering results in project portfolios.

Responsibilities

• Lead and drive a high-performing team in Medicinal Chemistry.
• Contribute to strategic leadership within Medicinal Chemistry and DMPK groups.
• Deliver compounds for pre-IND nomination.

Skills

Leadership

Chemical Knowledge

Research and Development

Interpersonal Skills

Strategic Thinking

Stakeholder Management

Education

PhD in Chemistry

Job description

Social network you want to login/join with:

Group Leader - Medicinal Chemistry, Babraham

Client: Cancer Research UK

Location: Babraham, United Kingdom

Job Category: Other

EU work permit required: Yes

Job Reference: 19d2fe1b94c5

Job Views: 4

Posted: 02.06.2025

Expiry Date: 17.07.2025

Job Description:

At Cancer Research UK, we exist to beat cancer

We are professionals with purpose, beating cancer every day. We need to go much further and faster. We’re looking for a talented, determined individual to join our Drug Discovery team as a Group Leader in Medicinal Chemistry, to help implement our new 5-year plan.

We seek an accomplished scientific and people leader who can articulate a vision, set direction, and inspire commitment for preclinical Discovery.

About CRUK Drug Discovery

As the world’s biggest medical research charity, we’ve helped bring eleven new cancer drugs to market. Our new approach through Cancer Research Horizons (CRH) aims to accelerate therapeutic innovation by uniting our drug discovery teams, leveraging our biology, technology, and clinical expertise to bring treatments faster and tackle big challenges in cancer drug discovery.

Based at the Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge, and other sites, Cancer Research Horizons employs about 200 staff from industrial and academic backgrounds.

What will I be doing?

• Leading and driving a high-performing team in Medicinal Chemistry
• Providing scientific and people leadership to foster innovation and success
• Contributing to strategic leadership within the Medicinal Chemistry and DMPK groups
• Defining and executing hit finding strategies across target classes
• Delivering compounds for pre-IND nomination
• Leading drug discovery projects when appropriate
• Representing the department across projects and initiatives
• Promoting equality and diversity in decision-making

What skills will I need?

• PhD in Chemistry or equivalent experience
• Extensive medicinal chemistry experience in drug discovery
• Strong external reputation in the field
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and leadership skills
• Experience leading diverse teams and collaborations
• Proven track record of delivering results in project portfolios
• Ability to work at the intersection of multiple disciplines
• Strategic and future-oriented thinking
• Effective stakeholder influence and collaboration skills
• Passion for scientific excellence and external dissemination

What will I gain?

Supportive environment, career development, generous benefits, flexible working, and the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking cancer research.

How do I apply?

Complete the online application form, including work history. CVs are required but reviewed only after interview invitation. Visa sponsorship is considered. We welcome applications from all backgrounds, especially underrepresented ethnic minorities. For adjustments or concerns, contact us at 020 3469 8400.