Senior Director, Discovery Sciences & Technologies

Scorpion Therapeutics; United States; On-site; USD 261,000 - 338,000; Full time

Job summary

Scorpion Therapeutics seeks a Senior Director for Discovery Sciences & Technologies to lead a high-performing team developing biochemical, biophysical, and cellular assays across modalities. You will establish strategies for target discovery, hit identification, and lead optimization, integrating advanced technologies and data analytics to drive mechanistic understanding and program advancement.

This role combines scientific leadership with cross-functional collaboration to accelerate drug

Qualifications

• PhD in biochemistry, enzymology, biophysics or related field; 15+ years in industrial drug discovery.
• Deep expertise in protein–ligand interactions with biophysical and cell-based tech.
• Proven track record in developing biochemical and cellular assays for target validation and SAR.
• Experience advancing programs from HTS to development candidate nomination.
• Mass spectrometry-based approaches; covalent inhibitor/degrader modality expertise desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire a high-performing team to develop biochemical, biophysical, and cellular pharmacology assays.
• Establish and execute assay/screening strategies for target discovery, hit identification, and lead optimization; identify rate-limiting steps and key decision points.
• Integrate biophysical and cellular approaches to drive mechanistic understanding of target engagement, pathway modulation, and inhibitor behavior.
• Drive adoption/internal development of next-generation lead-generation technologies (novel assay platforms, automation, data analytics, innovative screening).
• Evaluate external technologies for in-licensing, partnerships, and collaborations.
• Provide scientific direction, data interpretation, and decision support at project teams and governance forums.
• Manage resources across multiple programs to ensure efficient progression.
• Mentor and develop scientific leaders and emerging talent; foster excellence, innovation, accountability, and collaboration.

Skills

Team leadership

Protein–ligand interactions

Biophysical assays

Cell-based assays

Strategic thinking

Education

PhD in biochemistry/enzymology/biophysics or related field

Tools

Mass spectrometry

HTS platforms

In vitro assays

Job description

Senior Director, Discovery Sciences & Technologies (Discovery Sciences & Technologies)

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire a high-performing team to develop biochemical, biophysical, and cellular pharmacology assays across all therapeutic areas and modalities.
• Establish and execute assay/screening strategies for target discovery, hit identification, and lead optimization; identify rate-limiting steps and key decision points.
• Integrate biophysical and cellular approaches to drive mechanistic understanding of target engagement, pathway modulation, and inhibitor behavior.
• Drive adoption/internal development of next-generation lead-generation technologies (novel assay platforms, automation, data analytics, innovative screening).
• Evaluate external technologies for in-licensing, partnerships, and collaborations.
• Provide scientific direction, data interpretation, and decision support at project teams and governance forums.
• Manage resources across multiple programs to ensure efficient progression.
• Mentor and develop scientific leaders and emerging talent; foster excellence, innovation, accountability, and collaboration.

Minimum Qualifications

• PhD in biochemistry/enzymology/biophysics or related field; 15+ years industrial drug discovery experience.
• Deep expertise in protein–ligand interactions; strong biophysical and cell-based technology experience.
• Proven success developing/deploying biochemical and cellular assays for target validation, lead generation, and SAR optimization.
• Track record advancing programs from HTS to development‑candidate nomination.
• Mass spectrometry‑based approaches; covalent inhibitor/degrader modality expertise (highly desirable).
• Ability to lead, mentor, and develop senior scientists in a matrixed organization.
• Excellent written/verbal communication with ability to convey complex science to diverse audiences.

People Leader Accountabilities

Create Inclusion; Develop Talent; Empower Teams.

Compensation/Benefits (as stated)

Salary range: $261,375.00–$338,250.00; may include discretionary annual bonus, stock-based long-term incentives, paid time off; company-sponsored medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.