Senior Scientist, Computational Peptide Design/Molecular Modeling

NRT MedTech, Inc.; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 115,000 - 145,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully covered employee medical, dental, and vision insurance

Paid Time Off (PTO)

Paid Sick Leave (PSL)

Kitchen and café with complimentary snacks

Job summary

NRT MedTech, Inc. is seeking a Senior Scientist I / Senior Scientist II in San Diego to lead the design and optimization of peptides. Candidates should possess a PhD in a relevant field and at least 2 years of industry experience with expertise in molecular modeling.

The role involves collaborating with an innovative team to advance drug discovery while utilizing state-of-the-art technologies. The position offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, and opportunities for professional development.

Qualifications

• PhD in Computational Chemistry, Structural Biology, Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry or related field with 2+ years of industry experience.
• Deep expertise in molecular modeling and structure-based drug design.
• Strong expertise in peptide medicinal chemistry.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and optimization of peptide hits.
• Deploy molecular modeling for drug candidate optimization.
• Drive chemical modifications to enhance drug-like properties.

Skills

Molecular Modeling

Peptide Medicinal Chemistry

Collaborative Skills

Communication Skills

Computational Chemistry

Education

PhD in Computational Chemistry or related field

Tools

Schrödinger

OpenMM

MOE

Job description

We look forward to receiving your resume at [e-mail]

Position: Senior Scientist I / Senior Scientist II, Computational Peptide Design/Molecular Modeling

Department: NRT-USA R&D

Employment Type: Full-Time, On-Site

Location: 9276 Scranton Rd., Suite 500, San Diego, CA 92121, United States, located within BioLabs San Diego, a leading biotechnology incubator and innovation hub.

Company Website: https://en.nrtmedtech.com/

Position Summary

The scientist will design novel peptides including ncAA such as D-peptides, driving structure-activity relationships (SAR) from hit identification through clinical candidate nomination. Using molecular modeling and computational tools and experimental data, you will advance early hits by optimizing peptides with drug‑like properties, while collaborating across a multidisciplinary team to translate scientific discoveries into transformative medicines. We are looking for an outstanding Peptide/Medicinal Chemist with strong Molecular Modeling skills.

This position is ideal for a scientist who embraces process discipline, thrives in a collaborative biotech environment, and is eager to expand their skill set in a fast‑paced, startup‑minded team.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and optimization of peptide hits to establish robust SAR and advance drug discovery programs to achieve sub‑nanomolar (<1nM) drug substance potency
• Deploy state‑of‑the‑art molecular modelling of peptides and complexes for the optimization of drug candidates, leveraging available structural biology and chemical knowledge
• Drive chemical modifications including cyclization, stapling, N‑methylation, and non‑natural amino acid incorporation to enhance drug‑like properties, such as permeability, solubility, and stability
• Integrate tightly with the AI‑ and structure‑based discovery and experimental team
• Demonstrated ability to work cross‑functionally, and excellent organizational, communication and presentation skills
• Present results at internal team meetings
• Periodic travel to Chengdu, China may be required

Qualifications

• PhD in Computational Chemistry, Structural Biology, Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry or related field with 2+ years of pharmaceutical/biotech industry experience
• Deep expertise in molecular modelling and computational and structure‑based drug design including high proficiency with state‑of‑the‑art software packages such as Schrödinger, OpenMM, and MOE
• Strong expertise in peptide medicinal chemistry including linear, cyclic, and stapled peptides and non‑canonical amino acids
• Proven track record leading peptide therapeutics from hit‑to‑lead through candidate selection
• Experience and productivity in a multi‑disciplinary team involving working with peptide CRO, external partners and collaborators
• Excellent collaboration, documentation, and communication skills
• Demonstrated scientific productivity (publications, presentations, or patents)
• Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced, cross‑functional environment
• Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States

Preferred (not required)

• Good knowledge of ADMET optimization, and formulation considerations
• Strong experience with solid‑phase peptide synthesis (SPPS), solution‑phase chemistry, and purification and characterization of peptides
• Annual Base Salary: USD $115,000–$145,000 per year (final compensation will be determined based on qualifications, experience, and internal leveling)
• Annual Performance Bonus for Full‑Time Employees
• Fully covered employee medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Sick Leave (PSL)
• Kitchen and café with complimentary snacks and beverages

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

NRT MedTech is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply.