Head of Medicinal Chemistry – Drug Discovery
Location: Walloon Region, Belgium
Type: Full-time, On-site
We are looking for an experienced medicinal chemistry leader to head our discovery chemistry function and drive small-molecule programs from hit identification through candidate nomination. This role combines strategic oversight with hands-on scientific leadership in a fast-moving R&D environment.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead the medicinal chemistry strategy across early discovery programs, ensuring strong alignment with biology, DMPK and computational teams.
* Oversee hit-finding, hit-to-lead, and lead optimisation activities to deliver high-quality development candidates.
* Manage, mentor, and grow an internal chemistry team while coordinating external CRO chemistry resources.
* Shape portfolio decisions through data-driven evaluation of chemical series, risk, progress, and competitive landscapes.
* Guide compound design using SAR, property profiling, structural information, and computational insights.
* Ensure high standards of documentation, reporting, and IP generation.
* Contribute to scientific direction at the company level, including platform development and long-term portfolio strategy.
About You
* PhD in Medicinal Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, or related discipline.
* 10+ years of industry experience in small-molecule drug discovery, with a strong track record of delivering compounds into development.
* Proven leadership of multidisciplinary project teams, ideally within biotech or a fast-paced pharma environment.
* Ability to translate complex data into clear decisions and program strategy.
* Experience managing CROs and external collaborators.
* Strong communication skills and ability to influence across scientific and leadership teams.
What We Offer
* A key leadership position within a growing discovery organisation.
* Opportunity to shape multiple programs at an early stage.
* Collaborative culture, modern labs, and access to cutting-edge technologies.
* Competitive compensation package aligned with senior responsibilities.
If you’re excited to drive innovative chemistry in a dynamic setting, we’d love to hear from you.