Senior Scientist / Scientist – Drug DiscoveryGhent, BelgiumWe are looking for a Senior Scientist / Scientist with strong, hands-on industry drug discovery experience to help drive projects from early discovery into late-stage execution.This is a highly operational role, focused on real-world drug discovery delivery rather than theoretical or academic research.About the RoleYou will play a key role in transitioning programs from screening-focused discovery into late-stage discovery execution, supporting and driving:Follow-up biologyHit-to-LeadLead OptimizationProject progression toward developmentYou will run and manage discovery projects, including:Designing and executing experimentsInterpreting complex data setsLeading and guiding techniciansTranslating discovery data into clear progression strategiesKey Expertise RequiredSmall molecule drug discoveryProtein degraders / targeted protein degradation (PROTACs)Proven experience across:Hit discovery campaignsHit-to-Lead programsLead optimization programsProfilePhD-level scientist5–10 years total experience in drug discoveryIndustry pharma or biotech discovery experience is essentialAcademic-only profiles will not be consideredDemonstrated h ands-on involvement in real discovery programsClear exposure to project progression and moving programs forwardStrong understanding of practical discovery bottlenecks and how to overcome themWhat We're Looking ForScientists who have actively driven projects, not just supported them peripherallyA pragmatic, execution-focused mindsetExperience turning discovery data into actionable project decisions