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- Tasks: Lead a high-impact team in computational drug discovery using AI and machine learning.
- Company: Pioneering tech provider transforming pharmaceutical R&D with innovative AI solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £200,000, remote work, wellness budget, and generous holiday allowance.
- Why this job: Shape the future of drug discovery while collaborating with top pharma leaders.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field and 8+ years of industry experience in computational drug discovery.
- Other info: Join a dynamic, remote-first environment with excellent career growth opportunities.
Our client is a pioneering technology provider that is reshaping how AI is applied within pharmaceutical R&D. They provide a neutral, production-grade infrastructure that enables global pharmaceutical companies to collaborate securely on large-scale AI models without ever sharing their proprietary data. By leveraging federated computing, they power multi-partner data networks across small molecules, antibodies, and protein folding. Unlike traditional biotech firms, they do not develop their own drug assets; instead, they empower their partners' computational teams to accelerate their own discovery programmes.
We are seeking a Director of Computational Drug Discovery to build and lead a high-impact team of application scientists. This is a hands-on, externally facing leadership role requiring deep scientific credibility and the ability to engage directly with senior stakeholders at the world's leading pharmaceutical companies. You will bridge the gap between cutting-edge Machine Learning and real-world drug discovery, ensuring our models and workflows deliver measurable value in practical industrial settings.
Responsibilities:
- Own the scientific direction across various modalities and data types, defining which drug discovery problems and workflows the platform prioritises.
- Act as a peer-level counterpart to pharma R&D leaders, providing authoritative guidance grounded in real-world discovery experience to help get new collaborations over the line.
- Lead an established core team including senior medicinal chemists, machine learning engineers and oversee the recruitment of additional members over the next 6–9 months.
- Partner with internal Product and ML/AI teams to translate customer needs into clear model requirements and enterprise-grade software solutions.
- Represent the organisation within the scientific ecosystem through publications, talks, and direct engagement with the community.
Requirements for the role:
- PhD in computational chemistry, cheminformatics, computational drug discovery, or a closely related field.
- 8+ years of post-PhD industry experience in computational drug discovery, with a proven impact on programmes from hit finding through to lead optimisation.
- Deep, practical knowledge of structure-based and ligand-based design, ADMET modelling, and the integration of biophysical data.
- Exceptional understanding of modern ML approaches and the judgement to know where these technologies materially improve outcomes.
- Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, venture-backed, remote-first environment.
- A clear drive to enable customer discovery programmes rather than running internal pipelines.
- Strong understanding of Co-Folding and OpenFold3.
What can they offer you?
- A high-influence role working closely with the founders to shape company strategy.
- Up to 200,000 Euros or GBP depending on location salary.
- Remote-first working with a dedicated work-from-home budget and co-working stipend.
- Comprehensive suite of benefits, including a wellbeing budget and mental health support.
- Generous holiday allowance.
If you think you would be a good fit for the role, please drop over your CV and we will give you a call.
Director of Computational Drug Discovery, AI/Machine Learning | Pharma/BioTech | Series A - B2B[...] in Bury employer: Owen Thomas | Pending B Corp™
Contact Detail:
Owen Thomas | Pending B Corp™ Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Computational Drug Discovery, AI/Machine Learning | Pharma/BioTech | Series A - B2B[...] in Bury
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend relevant conferences. We can’t stress enough how important it is to make connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and showcasing your expertise in computational drug discovery. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for AI and machine learning in drug discovery during conversations. We want to see your enthusiasm shine through, as it can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for talented individuals who can make an impact in the pharma/bio-tech space.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Computational Drug Discovery, AI/Machine Learning | Pharma/BioTech | Series A - B2B[...] in Bury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Director of Computational Drug Discovery. Highlight your experience in computational chemistry and AI/Machine Learning, and don’t forget to showcase any leadership roles you've had in the past.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background aligns with the company's mission. Be sure to mention your experience with federated computing and collaboration in drug discovery.
Showcase Your Impact: When detailing your previous roles, focus on the impact you’ve made. Use specific examples of how your work has accelerated drug discovery programmes or improved outcomes through innovative ML approaches. Numbers and results speak volumes!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss out on the chance to join our pioneering team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Owen Thomas | Pending B Corp™
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of computational drug discovery and AI/Machine Learning. Be ready to discuss specific methodologies, like structure-based design and ADMET modelling, as well as how they apply to real-world scenarios. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but can also translate it into practice.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since this role involves direct engagement with senior stakeholders, prepare to demonstrate your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly. Think about examples from your past where you've successfully collaborated with R&D leaders or other teams, and be ready to share those stories.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
As a Director, you'll need to lead a team of application scientists. Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you’ve built and managed high-impact teams in the past. Highlight any experience you have in recruiting and mentoring talent, as this will be crucial for the role.
✨Stay Current with Trends
The pharma and biotech industries are always evolving, especially with AI advancements. Make sure you’re up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in computational drug discovery. Being able to discuss recent developments or innovations will demonstrate your passion and commitment to the field.
