Principal Scientist in Chemical Induced Proximity

Company: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
Location: Memphis
Posted on: May 13, 2025

Job Description:

We are seeking a highly motivated and innovative Principal Scientist with specialized expertise in drug discovery to direct our Chemical Induced Proximity Center in the highly collaborative Department of Chemical Biology and Therapeutics.The World's Brightest Minds Always InnovateAt St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, we know what can be achieved when the brightest scientific minds face the fewest barriers. That's why we provide world-class facilities, state-of-the-art technologies, extraordinary support, and a collaborative, bench-to-bedside environment where you can see how your science translates into survival for the children we serve. We encourage you to dream big and stop at nothing in the pursuit of cures and saving children.The incumbent will be responsible for driving strategic decisions throughout the various stages of the small molecule drug discovery process, focusing on chemically induced proximity platforms. Experience with computational tools, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), in virtual screening, small molecule design, and optimization is preferred.

• Set up the chemistry strategy for projects and advance drug discovery programs by collaborating cross-functionally within departmental centers and other institutional departments. Lead and manage a team of scientists and large-scale, multidisciplinary projects through proactive research collaboration, providing expertise and direction.

• Contribute to recruiting, growing the team, and mentoring junior staff.
  • Stay at the forefront of induced proximity platforms, including PROTACs, molecular glues, and other bifunctional or allosteric modulators.
    • Evaluate new technologies, chemical tools, and screening platforms to accelerate proximity-based therapeutics development.
      • Design and optimize focused chemical libraries to identify hits, leads, and drug candidates that induce selective protein interactions and cellular phenotypic changes.
        • Maintain collaborative partnerships, ensuring recognition on publications and patents.
          • Lead and manage contract research organizations (CROs) and external chemistry partners globally.
            • Oversee SAR studies to enhance potency, selectivity, and drug-like properties; collaborate with ADMET and DMPK teams to improve pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, and toxicological profiles.
              • Serve as an expert in due diligences for assets in-licensing and discovery partnerships.
                • Lead publication efforts in high-impact scientific journals.
                  • Experience in drug discovery within Pharma/Biotech industry is highly preferred.
                    • Experience with computational design or AI/ML is preferred.
                      • PhD with management experience is preferred.This senior leadership role focuses on advancing cutting-edge drug discovery programs for childhood catastrophic diseases using proximity-based targeting. Our goal is to develop unique chemical approaches (protein degraders, synthetic gene regulators, functional effectors) to target pediatric oncology, neurodegenerative disorders, and sickle cell disease.Minimum Education and/or Training:
                        • Bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific area is required.
                          • PhD preferred.Minimum Experience:
                            • 15 years with a Bachelor's degree.
                            • 13 years with a Master's degree.
                            • 10 years with a PhD.Better at Work. Better at Life.Join a highly collaborative culture that inspires excellence, with opportunities for growth, work-life balance, and benefits such as paid time off and campus conveniences. Discover why employees rank us as a "Best Place to Work."BenefitsWe offer high-quality, competitive benefits including medical, dental, vision, retirement, wellness programs, educational benefits, and more. Learn about all our .Have More in MemphisEnjoy Memphis' vibrant culture, low cost of living, no personal income tax, and shorter commutes. Find out how you can "."CompensationThe estimated salary range is $138,320 - $262,080 annually, dependent on experience and qualifications. This estimate complies with pay transparency laws and is not a guarantee of specific salary offers.Explore our !No Search FirmsWe do not accept unsolicited resumes from search firms. Resumes submitted without a valid agreement will not incur fees if the candidate is hired.
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Keywords: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis , Principal Scientist in Chemical Induced Proximity, Other , Memphis, Tennessee