Head of Molecular Discovery Tech — AI-Driven Hit Discovery

AbbVie; North Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 200,000 - 260,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits package

Long-term incentive programs

Paid time off

Job summary

AbbVie seeks a visionary Head of Molecular Discovery Technologies to lead DEL, NMR, MS-based screening, and related platforms. You will shape strategy, optimize hit discovery, and integrate data-driven decisions across Therapeutic Areas.

This role demands scientific leadership, collaboration, and a focus on scalable discovery capabilities that accelerate portfolio impact. You will partner with leaders across Discovery and Platform Technologies to evolve lead-discovery approaches, implement

Qualifications

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

Responsibilities

• Define and execute the Molecular Discovery Technologies strategy to maximize portfolio impact through accelerated hit discovery and improved hit quality.
• Lead MDT portfolio prioritization and resource allocation, aligning platform deployment and investments with high-value discovery opportunities.
• Drive integrated data strategies connecting experimental, screening, and computational insights, leveraging AI/ML-enabled approaches to improve decision quality.
• Partner with leaders across functions to shape future lead-discovery approaches and cross-functional technology investments.
• Develop long-range MDT technology, talent, and infrastructure plans aligned with portfolio needs.
• Establish metrics for platform performance, portfolio contribution, and organizational effectiveness.
• Provide scientific and strategic oversight to inform hit identification, prioritization, and progression decisions.
• Lead teams in solving complex scientific problems and developing fit-for-purpose solutions.
• Drive scientific rigor and decision quality to translate technologies into portfolio outcomes.
• Represent Molecular Discovery Technologies as a key scientific partner on cross-functional teams.
• Establish external scientific relationships and drive adoption of innovative technologies and best practices.

Job description

AbbVie seeks a visionary Head of Molecular Discovery Technologies to lead DEL, NMR, MS-based screening, and related platforms. You will shape strategy, optimize hit discovery, and integrate data-driven decisions across Therapeutic Areas.

This role demands scientific leadership, collaboration, and a focus on scalable discovery capabilities that accelerate portfolio impact. You will partner with leaders across Discovery and Platform Technologies to evolve lead-discovery approaches, implement