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.