Scientist II, High-Throughput Chemistry

Jnana Therapeutics Inc.; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 158,000; Full time

Job summary

Jnana Therapeutics, a Boston-based biotechnology company, seeks a Scientist for Discovery Chemistry to advance drug discovery programs targeting hard-to-drug proteins using our RAPID chemoproteomics platform.

The role focuses on direct-to-biology chemistry, high-throughput screening, and synthesis of novel small molecules, with collaboration across disciplines and with CRO partners. A PhD with relevant experience is required, along with strong communication and organizational skills.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, or closely related field.
• 0–2 years industry experience in parallel synthesis, liquid handling and high-throughput experimentation.
• Passion for drug discovery, strong organization and excellent communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Execute direct-to-biology, high-throughput chemistry to support the platform.
• Develop and optimize new reactions for direct-to-biology chemistry.
• Establish high-throughput chemistry function and assist in planning/building laboratory automation.
• Utilize synthetic expertise to design and synthesize target molecules.
• Collaborate with external chemistry CROs to synthesize target molecules.
• Work across scientific disciplines on multiple projects.
• Engage in brainstorming and generation of new ideas across projects.
• Assist in preparing patent applications and publications.
• Maintain a safe, productive laboratory environment.

Skills

Direct-to-biology chemistry

High-throughput chemistry

Parallel synthesis

Liquid handling

Synthesis design

Education

Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry

Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry

Job description

About Us
Jnana Therapeutics, a wholly owned subsidiary of Otsuka Pharmaceutical, is a clinical-stage biotechnology company leveraging its next-generation RAPID chemoproteomics platform to discover medicines for highly validated, challenging-to-drug targets to treat diseases with high unmet needs. Jnana is focused on developing first- and best-in-class therapies to treat a wide range of diseases, including rare diseases and immune-mediated diseases. Jnana’s lead program, JNT-517, which targets an allosteric site on the phenylalanine transporter SLC6A19, is a potential first-in-class oral approach for the treatment of PKU, a rare genetic metabolic disease. Located in Boston, Jnana brings together scientific leaders in small molecule drug discovery and development, and a highly experienced management team. For more information, please visit www.jnanatx.com and follow us on Twitter/X and LinkedIn.

At Jnana, you’ll join a diverse, passionate team dedicated to advancing therapies for challenging diseases. Our collaborative, purpose-driven culture fosters innovation, urgency, and belonging—making Jnana a great place to work!

About the Opportunity

As a Scientist in our Discovery Chemistry group, you will support our internal chemistry group focused on drug discovery programs for hard-to-drug targets. Through small molecule screening using our novel and proprietary chemoproteomics RAPID platform, our research aims to identify novel small molecules against these challenging targets to interrogate target biology and ultimately to develop drug candidates that can provide clinical value to patients.

Responsibilities

• Execute direct-to-biology, high-throughput chemistry to support the platform
• Develop and optimize new reactions for direct-to-biology chemistry
• Contribute to establishment of the high-throughput chemistry function and planning/build out of laboratory automation
• Utilize synthetic expertise to design and execute synthesis of target molecules
• Work closely with external chemistry CRO teams to synthesize target molecules
• Work collaboratively across scientific disciplines on multiple projects
• Proactively engage in brainstorming and the generation of new ideas across projects
• Assist in preparing patent applications and publications
• Maintain a safe and productive laboratory environment

Desired Qualifications & Past Experience

• Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, or closely related field with 0-2 years industry experience in parallel synthesis, liquid handling, high-throughput experimentation and/or direct-to-biology chemistry
• Passion for drug discovery, highly-organized and excellent communication skills

Minimum $110,000.00 - Maximum $158,125.00, plus incentive opportunity: The range shown represents a typical pay range or starting pay for individuals who are hired in the role to perform in the United States. Other elements may be used to determine actual pay such as the candidate’s job experience, specific skills, and comparison to internal incumbents currently in role. Typically, actual pay will be positioned within the established range, rather than at its minimum or maximum. This information is provided to applicants in accordance with states and local laws.

Application Deadline : This will be posted for a minimum of 5 business days.

Company benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, prescription drug coverage, company provided basic life, accidental death & dismemberment, short-term and long-term disability insurance, tuition reimbursement, student loan assistance, a generous 401(k) match, flexible time off, paid holidays, and paid leave programs as well as other company provided benefits.

Come discover more about Jnana and our benefit offerings; https://www.jnanatx.com/join-us/

Disclaimer:

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed by the people assigned to this position. It is not intended to include every job duty and responsibility specific to the position. Jnana Therapeutics reserves the right to amend and change responsibilities to meet business and organizational needs as necessary.

Jnana Therapeutics is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will be given consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity or gender expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, national origin, veteran status, marital status, or any other legally protected characteristic.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you may request a reasonable accommodation, if you are unable or limited in your ability to apply to this job opening as a result of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodations by contacting Accommodation Request.