Global Head, Peptide Drug Substance

Zealand Pharma group; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 250,000 - 360,000; Full time

Job summary

Zealand Pharma A/S is seeking a Global Head of Drug Substance – Senior Director based in Boston. You will build and lead a peptide process development organization, oversee the full arc from route scouting to Phase 2, and ensure scalable, cost-effective routes for early clinical trials.

The role requires an advanced degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering and a proven track record in peptide synthesis, process optimization, and cross-functional leadership across discovery, development, and

Qualifications

• Advanced degree (PhD preferred) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Deep expertise in solid-phase and/or liquid-phase peptide synthesis, purification, and process optimization across multiple clinical stages.
• Experience defining manufacturing strategies and technology transfer to GMP manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Establish and lead the Boston peptide process development lab, including hiring and developing a high-performing local team.
• Provide global leadership for Drug Substance from discovery through Phase 2, shaping strategy and execution.
• Lead synthetic route scouting, salt selection, and evaluate process alternatives by yield, COGS, manufacturability, and scalability.
• Coordinate with Analytical Development and Manufacturing to ensure scalable, robust processes and successful tech transfer to CMOs.

Skills

Peptide process chemistry

Leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Process optimization

GMP knowledge

Technology transfer

Education

PhD in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering

Job description

Zealand Pharma A/S is seeking a Global Head of Drug Substance – Senior Director based in Boston. You will build and lead a peptide process development organization, oversee the full arc from route scouting to Phase 2, and ensure scalable, cost-effective routes for early clinical trials.

The role requires an advanced degree in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering and a proven track record in peptide synthesis, process optimization, and cross-functional leadership across discovery, development, and