Principal Peptide Medicinal Chemistry Scientist

Wuxi Apptec, Inc.; Natick (MA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

WuXi AppTec's peptide discovery group is seeking a Principal Scientist / Associate Director to lead design and optimization of peptide and macrocyclic peptide hits into lead candidates. You'll collaborate across display, chemistry, and ADME/DMPK teams to translate screening hits into potent, developable compounds.

The role emphasizes SAR exploration, sequence scanning, noncanonical amino acids, and close mentorship of peptide chemists, with scientific leadership across multiple programs and

Qualifications

• 7+ years in peptide therapeutics or drug discovery.
• Proven track record in hit-to-lead and lead optimization.
• Independent development and execution of medicinal chemistry strategies.
• Experience mentoring scientists and leading programs.

Responsibilities

• Lead medicinal chemistry strategies for peptide and macrocyclic hit-to-lead and lead optimization programs.
• Collaborate with display and DEL teams to translate screening hits into optimized lead series through rational design and analogue synthesis.
• Develop SAR hypotheses and design analogues using sequence scanning, amino acid substitutions, and conformational constraints.
• Identify binding determinants and optimize peptide sequences to improve potency, stability, permeability, and solubility.
• Integrate binding, kinetic, biophysical, structural, and functional data to guide analogue design and prioritization.
• Design peptides with noncanonical amino acids and other modifications to enhance engagement and developability.
• Provide scientific leadership and mentorship across multiple peptide discovery programs.
• Communicate SAR results and program recommendations to multidisciplinary teams and senior leadership.

Skills

Communication skills

Leadership experience

SAR-driven optimization

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry

Postdoctoral experience desirable

Tools

SPPS

LC-MS

HPLC

Job description

WuXi AppTec's peptide discovery group is seeking a Principal Scientist / Associate Director to lead design and optimization of peptide and macrocyclic peptide hits into lead candidates. You'll collaborate across display, chemistry, and ADME/DMPK teams to translate screening hits into potent, developable compounds.

The role emphasizes SAR exploration, sequence scanning, noncanonical amino acids, and close mentorship of peptide chemists, with scientific leadership across multiple programs and