Group Leader, Discovery Chemistry

At X-Chem, it is our mission to leverage the world’s leading drug discovery platform to help create molecules that will improve human health.  At X-Chem, we do more than screen compounds. We help you make confident decisions that move science forward. Our integrated platform combines DNA-encoded libraries, medicinal chemistry, advanced modeling and proprietary AI into a powerful and precise discovery engine. Everything is connected through Chemomics, our approach to unlocking value from every data point. Whether you’re exploring a new target or refining a lead, we help you discover high-quality molecules with greater speed, insight and control.

X-Chem is seeking an accomplished and highly motivated Group Leader, Discovery Chemistry to play a pivotal leadership role in advancing innovative drug discovery programs for our global pharmaceutical and biotechnology partners. This position offers a unique opportunity to combine scientific excellence, team leadership, and client engagement within a collaborative, fast-paced research environment.

This role can be based in Montreal, QC, CA or in Waltham, US. This position reports to the Vice President of Discovery.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead a global team of discovery chemists within cross-functional project teams to advance hit generation and hit-to-lead efforts, including analysis of DEL screening data, prioritization of compounds, oversight of synthesis activities, and progression of promising hits into validated hit and lead series.
• Lead chemistry efforts related to hit generation and hit-to-lead, driving scientific excellence, operational effectiveness, and continuous innovation while ensuring successful client outcomes.
• Provide scientific leadership across partner projects spanning multiple therapeutic areas, helping to shape project strategy and drive informed decision-making.
• Interpret and communicate scientific findings, project progress, and recommendations clearly and effectively to internal stakeholders and external partners.
• Collaborate closely with colleagues across chemistry, biology, informatics, and other functions to achieve project objectives within a matrixed environment.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships through effective project leadership, proactive communication, and consistent delivery of high-quality scientific results.
• Mentor and develop scientists within the group, fostering a collaborative, productive, and scientifically rigorous team environment.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of discovery workflows, scientific practices, and operational efficiency across the organization.  

Qualifications

• Education: PhD in Organic Chemistry.
• Experience: 8-12 years of research experience in the pharma / biotech sector with proven leadership and management skills.
• Broad experience in modern medicinal chemistry with a demonstrated track record of success. Familiarity with hit identification, hit to lead, and lead optimization is required.
• Strong synthetic chemistry background with demonstrated ability in problem solving of synthetic challenges.
• Experience with array synthesis or with a DNA encoded library platform is a plus.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Collaborator and team player who thrives in a dynamic work environment and brings innovation, creativity and a focus on operation efficiency.

Other Requirements

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Good problem-solving skills.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the country where the position is based at the time of application and throughout the duration of employment

The company cooperates with its customers, partners and colleagues outside Quebec for the research and development of medical products based on the identification and optimization of small molecules enabling the development of specific drugs. Interaction with colleagues and partners outside Quebec, notably in Budapest and Waltham, is constant. Consequently, knowledge of English is required for this unique and specialized position.  Knowledge of French is required for positions permanently located in Quebec, so that the incumbent can communicate as needed with colleagues, customers and partners in Quebec. French-language training will be offered to any incumbent of a permanent position in Quebec who does not have a good knowledge of French. 

Our scientists innovate beyond reported chemistry while focusing on delivery. We all share a passion for staying at the forefront of computational, cheminformatics, medicinal and synthetic chemistry. To drive innovation, we acknowledge the importance of intelligent risk-taking, open-mindedness and initiative. We encourage creativity in an informal environment and recognize everyone’s contribution as part of a team to work together toward a common vision.

What are the benefits joining us?

We are focused on the development and career progression of our people to reach their full potential through workshops, training courses and mentor guidance. X-Chem offers competitive compensation (salary and performance incentive) and interesting benefits package. Benefits we offer include: Medical, Dental, STD/LTD and Life Insurance, Retirement Plan with employer match; paid vacations based on local policy; casual dress, vision care including prescription safety glasses, training sessions and workshops, social hours and team-building company events.

EEO Statement
X-Chem is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.