Director/sr. Director/exec. Director Computational Chemistry, Advanced Molecular Design

Eli Lilly Eli Lilly · Pharma · Louisville, CO +1

This role focuses on computational chemistry and molecular design within the drug discovery process at Eli Lilly. While it mentions AI and machine learning as areas to stay updated on, the core responsibilities involve structure-based design, lead optimization, and collaboration with medicinal chemistry and structural biology, rather than building or deploying AI models directly. The role is primarily focused on the early stages of drug discovery (lead optimization).

What you'd actually do

  1. Structure-based design efforts for the lead/late-stage optimization of small molecule therapeutics across a range of therapeutic areas
  2. Play a key role in prioritizing medicinal chemistry efforts through critical analysis and effective decision-making leading to highly focused work and rapid progress
  3. Ensure the timely delivery of data and results to project teams to enable rapid iterative design cycles
  4. Maintain critical timelines and set team expectations for efficient delivery of clinical candidates
  5. Contribution to decision-making at higher levels, up to and including prioritization of our overall small-molecule discovery portfolio

Skills

Required

  • PhD in Chemistry, Biophysics or related discipline
  • 6 -15 years of Drug Discovery research experience
  • Structure-based design
  • Lead optimization
  • Computational chemistry

Nice to have

  • Deep scientific background in computational chemistry technology
  • Collaborate across disciplines
  • Mentoring earlier career computational chemists
  • Deep-thinking that leads to creative hypotheses
  • Understanding of small molecule-protein interactions, ADME, and toxicological considerations
  • Proactive and highly engaged approach to solving challenging problems
  • Desire to continually stay up to date with the latest industry developments and novel techniques employed in discovery including AI and machine learning models
  • Deep knowledge of lead optimization using structure-based design
  • Agility and adaptability

What the JD emphasized

  • PhD in Chemistry, Biophysics or related discipline with 6 -15 years of Drug Discovery research experience