What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Director, Peptide Chemistry position at EPM Scientific?
Job Title : Senior Director, Peptide Chemistry
Location : South San Francisco, CA
Company Overview :
Join the biotechnology arm of a leading global tech company, where we are driving innovation at the intersection of advanced science and cutting-edge technology. Our mission is to create first-in-class peptide therapeutics that fill the gap between small molecules and biologics ("Goldilocks" modality) to address complex diseases such as autoimmune and metabolic disorders.
This is a high-priority role, offering the opportunity to shape strategy, lead collaborative teams, and make a significant impact on breakthrough treatments.
Key Responsibilities :
Innovative Leadership : Drive the discovery and optimization of cutting-edge peptide therapeutics, leveraging advanced design strategies to navigate the intricate balance between molecular structure and therapeutic efficacy. Lead multidisciplinary efforts to develop first-in-class therapies that bridge the gap between small molecules and biologics.
Strategic Design and Development : Spearhead the ideation and implementation of innovative peptide-based approaches for addressing autoimmune and metabolic diseases. Utilize state-of-the-art peptide chemistry techniques to design molecules with tailored pharmacokinetics, target specificity, and functional activity.
Cross-Functional Collaboration : Collaborate deeply with experts in biology, pharmacology, computational modeling, and translational sciences to ensure seamless integration of peptide candidates into the drug development pipeline. Champion a culture of scientific curiosity and excellence across teams.
Technical Advancement : Incorporate cutting-edge technologies such as mRNA display and machine learning into the peptide drug discovery process, enhancing predictive modeling and candidate selection. Emphasize rational design principles to advance peptide candidates with superior therapeutic profiles.
Pipeline Strategy : Play a pivotal role in defining program priorities and advancing key projects to preclinical nomination and beyond. Align efforts with broader company goals to deliver impactful therapies in high-need therapeutic areas.
Peptide Chemistry Focus :
Peptide chemistry sits at the forefront of modern drug discovery, offering unique therapeutic advantages by bridging the gap between small molecules and biologics. This role demands expertise in designing and optimizing peptides with enhanced stability, target affinity, and cell permeability. Candidates should demonstrate a deep understanding of structure-activity relationships (SAR), synthetic methodologies, and the development of multifunctional peptide-based modalities. Familiarity with integrating biologics and small molecules into peptide platforms is essential for creating therapies with transformative potential.
Qualifications :
Education : PhD in Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, or a related discipline.
Experience : 7-10 years of industry experience in peptide chemistry, with a track record of leading projects from discovery through IND filings and early clinical development.
Expertise :
- Strong background in medicinal / synthetic chemistry, with a focus on peptides
- Experience in mRNA display (preferred)
- Familiaritry with integrating machine learning / AI for drug discovery (preferred).
- Familiarity with autoimmune and metabolic diseases; oncology peptide experience is acceptable.
- Proven ability to innovate in peptide drug design and development.
- Leadership Skills : Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and mentor junior scientists.
- Technical Knowledge : Expertise in integrating biologics and small molecules into peptide drug design.
