Director, Molecular Discovery Technologies & Platforms

SmartRecruiters, Inc.; North Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 161,000 - 305,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Medical/dental/vision insurance

401(k)

Job summary

AbbVie is seeking a Director to lead Molecular Discovery Technologies. This role defines the strategic direction for DEL, NMR, MS-based screening, and related discovery platforms, accelerating hit discovery and enabling small-molecule and peptide programs across therapeutic areas.

The leader will drive data strategies, platform investments, and talent development while partnering across functions to shape portfolio-level lead-discovery approaches and ensure measurable impact on the pipeline.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in chemistry, medicinal chemistry, biochemistry, biophysics, or a related discipline.
• 10+ years of industry experience in lead discovery and/or molecular discovery technologies.
• Strong background in medicinal chemistry and lead discovery strategy.
• Demonstrated success leading scientific functions or platform teams in a matrixed research environment.
• Recognized scientific leader with external impact through publications, invited presentations, patents, or leadership.
• Experience applying AI/ML or advanced analytics to discovery data is preferred.
• Excellent leadership, communication, influencing, and collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Define and execute the Molecular Discovery Technologies strategy to maximize portfolio impact.
• Lead MDT portfolio prioritization and resource allocation.
• Drive integrated data strategies with AI/ML-enabled approaches.
• Partner with cross-functional leaders to shape future lead-discovery approaches.
• Develop long-range MDT technology, talent, and infrastructure plans.
• Establish metrics for platform performance and portfolio contribution.
• Provide scientific oversight to inform hit identification and progression decisions.
• Lead teams to solve complex scientific problems and develop fit-for-purpose solutions.
• Represent MDT as a key scientific partner on cross-functional teams.
• Establish external relationships and drive adoption of innovative technologies.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Collaboration

Strategic thinking

Education

PhD in chemistry or related discipline

Tools

AI/ML

Job description

AbbVie is seeking a Director to lead Molecular Discovery Technologies. This role defines the strategic direction for DEL, NMR, MS-based screening, and related discovery platforms, accelerating hit discovery and enabling small-molecule and peptide programs across therapeutic areas.

The leader will drive data strategies, platform investments, and talent development while partnering across functions to shape portfolio-level lead-discovery approaches and ensure measurable impact on the pipeline.