Scientist II, Discovery Chemistry and Automation (Parallel Synthesis)

About the role

We are seeking a highly motivated synthetic chemist to join our drug discovery team, with a focus on design, synthesis, and optimization of compound libraries. This role will play a critical part in advancing programs from hit identification through lead optimization by enabling rapid and efficient exploration of chemical space.

Responsibilities

• Design, prioritize, and execute focused and diverse compound libraries to address SAR hypotheses and project needs
• Develop and implement parallel synthesis strategies to enable rapid library generation and iteration
• Design and optimize synthetic routes that allow efficient diversification and scalability
• Collaborate closely with Medicinal Chemistry, In vitro Pharmacology, Biology, DMPK, ML/AI, and Chemistry Data Science teams to guide compound design
• Apply structure–activity relationship (SAR) insights to drive compound optimization
• Utilize modern approaches such as high-throughput experimentation (HTE)
• Perform compound synthesis, purification, and characterization (e.g., NMR, LC-MS) of intermediates for library synthesis on 1-5g scale
• Document experimental work and communicate results through presentations and reports

Requirements

• Ph.D. (or equivalent experience) in Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, or related field (or M.S. with 4–6+ years, B.S. with 6–8+ years relevant experience)
• Strong expertise in synthetic organic chemistry within a drug discovery setting
• Demonstrated experience in compound library design and synthesis
• Proven ability to solve complex synthetic challenges
• Hands-on experience with standard analytical techniques (NMR, LC-MS, HPLC)

Qualifications

• You may also bring experience with parallel synthesis, library enumeration, reaction screening, or automated chemistry platforms
• Understanding of ADME/PK and physicochemical property optimization
• Experience collaborating with or managing CRO partners
• Track record of scientific impact (publications, patents, or project contributions)
• Experience or familiarity with AI/ML-driven molecular design, cheminformatics tools, or data-driven library design approaches is a plus

Pay

MA Salary Range
$123,250 - $145,000 USD
Career compensation for the role will depend on a number of factors, including a candidate’s qualifications, skills, competencies, and experience. Valo Health currently offers healthcare coverage, annual incentive program, retirement benefits and a broad range of other benefits. Compensation and benefits information is based on Valo Health's good faith estimate as of the date of publication and may be modified in the future.