Lead Scientist: Induced-Proximity MedChem & PROTACs

Amgen Inc.; Thousand Oaks (CA); On-site; USD 145,000 - 196,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Total Rewards Plan

Stock-based long-term incentives

Flexible work models

Award-winning time-off plans

Job summary

Amgen Inc. is seeking a Principal Scientist in Thousand Oaks to lead medicinal chemistry programs focused on induced‑proximity modalities, including PROTACs and molecular glues. The role combines hands‑on synthesis with design strategy and cross‑functional collaboration to drive discovery and development.

You will guide SAR/SPR, interpret complex datasets, and address challenges in tissue distribution and DMPK while mentoring teams and contributing to publications and patents.

Qualifications

• Doctorate degree and 2 years of scientific experience, or Master's degree and 5 years of scientific experience, or Bachelor's degree and 7 years of scientific experience

Responsibilities

• Design, synthesize, purify, and characterize high-quality small molecules across proximity modalities
• Lead SAR and structure‑property‑activity relationships integrating potency and PK
• Collaborate with biology, biophysics, proteomics, and translational science teams
• Develop strategies addressing molecular weight, permeability, and E3‑ligase engagement
• Mentor scientists and external partners; ensure rigorous experimental design and data integrity
• Publish results and contribute to patents and external collaborations

Skills

Medicinal chemistry

PROTACs

Molecular glue

SAR

Leadership

Education

Doctorate in organic/medicinal chemistry

Job description

Amgen Inc. is seeking a Principal Scientist in Thousand Oaks to lead medicinal chemistry programs focused on induced‑proximity modalities, including PROTACs and molecular glues. The role combines hands‑on synthesis with design strategy and cross‑functional collaboration to drive discovery and development.

You will guide SAR/SPR, interpret complex datasets, and address challenges in tissue distribution and DMPK while mentoring teams and contributing to publications and patents.