About the Company
Amgen is one of the world’s leading biotechnology companies. For more than 40 years, Amgen has been on the frontier of science and medicine, using its vast knowledge in human therapeutics to bring new medicines to patients. We are committed to unlocking the potential of biology for patients suffering from serious illnesses by discovering, developing, manufacturing, and delivering innovative human therapeutics. Our team is dedicated to addressing areas of high unmet medical need and improving outcomes for patients worldwide.
Job Description
We are seeking an exceptionally talented and highly motivated Senior Medicinal Chemist to join our dynamic drug discovery team in Burbank, CA. This leadership role offers a unique opportunity to significantly impact the identification and optimization of novel small molecule therapeutics. The successful candidate will drive projects from target validation through lead optimization, applying deep expertise in synthetic organic and medicinal chemistry. You will be instrumental in guiding research strategies, mentoring junior chemists, and contributing to a vibrant, collaborative scientific environment focused on delivering breakthrough medicines.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the design, synthesis, and characterization of novel small molecules for drug discovery programs.
- Provide strategic direction and scientific leadership to project teams, ensuring progress towards key milestones.
- Mentor and develop junior medicinal chemists, fostering a culture of scientific excellence and innovation.
- Analyze structure-activity relationships (SAR) and structure-property relationships (SPR) to guide compound design and optimization.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with biologists, pharmacologists, computational chemists, and ADME scientists.
- Present research findings effectively to internal and external stakeholders.
- Contribute to the intellectual property portfolio through invention disclosures and patent applications.
Required Skills
- Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, or a related field.
- Minimum of 8 years of post-Ph.D. experience in medicinal chemistry in a pharmaceutical or biotechnology setting.
- Demonstrated leadership ability in leading drug discovery projects and mentoring scientists.
- Expertise in multi-step organic synthesis, reaction mechanisms, and synthetic route design.
- Strong understanding of drug discovery principles, including ADME, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacology.
- Proficiency in interpreting complex analytical data (NMR, MS, HPLC).
- Excellent problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Postdoctoral experience in an academic or industrial setting.
- Proven track record of scientific contributions, including publications and patent inventorship.
- Experience in specific therapeutic areas such as oncology, neuroscience, or inflammation.
- Familiarity with computational chemistry tools for compound design (e.g., molecular modeling, docking).
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive annual salary with performance-based bonus.
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- Generous paid time off and company holidays.
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
- On-site fitness centers and wellness programs.
- Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
- Employee stock purchase plan.
- Relocation assistance, if applicable.
How to Apply
If you are interested in this position, please click the "Apply Now" button below. To ensure your application is properly considered, please prepare the following:
- An up-to-date Resume or CV
- A brief cover letter summarizing your experience and motivation
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.
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