Principal Scientist, Peptide Therapeutics

Key Responsibilities

• Synthetic Execution & Lab Leadership
  • Execute the multi-step synthesis of peptides, peptidomimetics, and novel, non-commercial building blocks or scaffolds.
  • Utilize expert-level skills in solid-phase peptide synthesis, solution-phase organic chemistry, and specialized macrocyclization or ligation strategies.
  • Personally oversee high-resolution analysis (HPLC, Mass Spec, NMR) to confirm compound identity and ensure the delivery of high-purity materials.
• Strategic Design & Technology Innovation
  • Apply conformational analysis, structure-based design, and computational modeling (e.g., MD simulations) to optimize potency, stability, and pharmacokinetics.
  • Drive polycyclization strategies to improve drug-like properties.
  • Implement strategic SAR plans and Multi-Parameter Optimization to advance candidates from early hits through to IND-enabling studies.
• Collaborative Leadership
  • Lead multidisciplinary project teams, serving as the technical bridge between Peptide Therapeutics, Research Biology, Drug Discovery, and Therapeutic Areas.
  • Supervise and mentor junior scientists directly at the bench, fostering a culture of technical excellence and scientific innovation.

Who You Are

• Education: Ph.D. in Organic or Medicinal Chemistry (or related field) with 3+ years of relevant postdoctoral or industry experience.
• Synthetic Expert: Proven mastery of both SPPS (manual and automated) and complex solution-phase organic synthesis.
• Design Savvy: Deep knowledge of macrocyclic peptides, various routes of administration (IV, SC, PO), and library-based screening (e.g., mRNA display, AS/MS, OBOC).
• Computationally Proficient: Experienced in using software (Schrödinger, MOE, Maestro) for molecular dynamics, conformational sampling, and AI/ML-driven sequence optimization.
• Effective Communicator: Ability to present complex technical data and strategic roadmaps to global cross-functional stakeholders.

Relocation Benefits

Relocation benefits are available for this posting.

Pay Range

The expected salary range for this position based on the primary location of California is $143,200 to $265,900. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors permitted by law.

Bonus

A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and Company performance.

Benefits

Genentech is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We prohibit unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to, discrimination on the basis of Protected Veteran status, individuals with disabilities status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws.

Accommodations for Applicants

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