Director of Cheminformatics and Computational Chemistry

at  BenevolentAI

We are looking for a highly experienced Cheminformatician or Computational Chemist, with an extensive background in small molecule drug discovery, to lead our Cheminformatics and Computational Chemistry team.
The Cheminformatics team is a high performing cross-functional team that seeks to apply their knowledge to a diverse range of programmes from Target Identification through Hit ID, Hit Expansion and Lead Optimisation. Their role is to aid the advancement of our small molecule Drug Discovery programmes by devising computational solutions to project-specific challenges and applying new and existing technologies to support the needs of our wider portfolio.
As Director of Cheminformatics & Computational Chemistry, you will lead the team in meeting this challenge. You will coordinate, support and guide them in applying cheminformatics, data analysis, biomolecular structural analysis and computational modelling techniques to advance our small molecule drug discovery programmes. You will also take an active role in the delivery of our drug discovery programmes, by developing and applying computer-aided drug discovery strategies that maximise success. Furthermore, you will collaborate with scientific and engineering teams from across the company to guide them on the best use of chemical data, and assist in the design of chemistry-related tools and infrastructure.

• Lead a highly effective multidisciplinary team of Cheminformaticians, Computational Chemists and a Cheminformatics Software Developer
• Drive the team’s computer-aided drug design strategy, and work with Lead Medicinal Chemists to devise computationally enabled chemistry strategies for specific small molecule drug discovery projects
• Coordinate the team’s work across multiple drug discovery projects from early hit ID through to candidate selection, working closely with Project Leads to scope out work and ensure delivery
• Provide computational and modelling support to drug discovery projects, both directly and as a consultant, applying a wide range of computer-aided drug design techniques to identify and develop small molecules
• Oversee the continued development of our technical capabilities and work with engineering teams to ensure the team’s infrastructure needs are met
• Act as the primary domain expert for cheminformatics and/or computational chemistry and the handling of biochemical data, and consult with scientific and engineering teams across BenevolentAI
• Collaborate and communicate effectively with members of the Medicinal Chemistry, Biology, Bioinformatics, Artificial Intelligence, Engineering and Product teams
• Champion the team’s computer-aided drug discovery capabilities and present them at meetings, conferences and to potential collaborators and investors
• Define and monitor team and individual goals, in line with company and department objectives, and conduct performance reviews for direct reports and oversee those conducted by line-managers within the team
• Nurture talent at BenevolentAI by sharing experience and offering a mentoring role