Senior Oncology Drug Discovery Lead (Small Molecule/Degrader)

Scorpion Therapeutics; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Scorpion Therapeutics seeks an Associate Director to lead one or more oncology discovery programs focused on small molecule and degrader approaches. You will guide cross-functional teams, align strategy with portfolio priorities, and mentor scientists in a matrixed environment.

You will partner with chemistry, biology, pharmacology, DMPK, translational medicine, computational/data sciences, and clinical teams to drive milestones, data-driven decisions, and governance readiness.

Qualifications

• PhD in relevant discipline with 6+ years in industry; MS with substantial relevant experience considered.
• Demonstrated leadership of multidisciplinary drug discovery programs in matrixed environments.
• Track record advancing small molecule programs through hit ID, lead optimization, candidate nomination, IND-enabling.
• Direct experience with targeted protein degradation (e.g., PROTACs) is a distinct advantage.

Responsibilities

• Lead one or more oncology discovery programs for small molecule and/or degrader approaches.
• Lead cross-functional teams to set strategy, timelines, and risk mitigation.
• Partner with chemistry, biology, pharmacology, DMPK, translational medicine, and clinical teams to advance milestones.
• Integrate complex datasets into data-driven recommendations aligned with portfolio priorities.
• Drive day-to-day execution: project prioritization, governance readiness, and issue escalation.
• Present program strategy, data, risks, and recommendations to leadership forums.
• Contribute to target/modality strategy and support external diligence.
• Mentor scientists and foster an inclusive, collaborative culture.

Skills

Leadership

Cross-functional leadership

Data-driven decision making

Program management

Mentoring scientists

Strategic planning

Drug discovery

Scientific communication

Education

PhD in relevant discipline

MS with substantial relevant experience

Job description

Scorpion Therapeutics seeks an Associate Director to lead one or more oncology discovery programs focused on small molecule and degrader approaches. You will guide cross-functional teams, align strategy with portfolio priorities, and mentor scientists in a matrixed environment.

You will partner with chemistry, biology, pharmacology, DMPK, translational medicine, computational/data sciences, and clinical teams to drive milestones, data-driven decisions, and governance readiness.