Chief Scientific Officer of Small Molecule Business

OverviewChief Scientific Officer of Small Molecule BusinessPlease read the following job description thoroughly to ensure you are the right fit for this role before applying.Experience: 15+ years in drug discovery R&DRole Summary:We're looking for someone with extensive experience in drug R&D—ideally from a large pharma environment—who can provide scientific vision, operational discipline, and BD-savvy leadership.Key ResponsibilitiesEnd-to-End Leadership: Define and execute the comprehensive scientific strategy for small molecule research, covering Discovery, Target Identification, Lead Optimization, and Translational platforms.Portfolio Management: Oversee the progression of internal and partnered assets. Make critical data-driven decisions on candidate progression, prioritization, and portfolio diversification to maximize clinical success probability.Innovation: Stay at the forefront of global trends in small molecule research and AI-enabled drug discovery, ensuring XtalPi remains a competitive leader in the industry.Team Empowerment: Lead, mentor, and inspire a diverse team of scientists across Molecular Chemistry, Biology, Discovery, and Engineering.Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner closely with internal AI and algorithm teams. You do not need to be a coder, but you must be a champion for digital transformation.Workflow Optimization: Co-develop practical, problem-driven technologies. Provide the "chemist's perspective" to ensure AI tools effectively enhance experimental workflows and accelerate decision-making cycles.External Engagement: Serve as the senior scientific voice of XtalPi in external engagements. Represent the company at major scientific conferences, investor meetings, and industry forums.Strategic Partnerships: Act as a key scientific counterpart to our Pharma and Biotech partners, driving collaboration success and identifying new business opportunities through scientific excellence.QualificationsPh.D. in Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacology, Organic Chemistry, or a related small molecule discipline.15+ years of progressive experience in drug discovery and development, with a significant tenure in leadership roles within large pharmaceutical companies or global biotech organizations.Track Record: Proven history of successfully leading large scientific teams and delivering candidates from discovery into clinical development.Executive Presence: Exceptional communication and presentation skills. Ability to articulate complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences, including investors, partners, and non-scientific stakeholders.Tech-Forward Mindset: Comfortable working at the intersection of science and technology. While prior computational experience is not required, a strong willingness to collaborate with AI teams and adopt new methodologies is essential. xevrcycStrategic Thinking: Demonstrated ability to balance scientific curiosity with business acumen and portfolio strategy.Seniority level: ExecutiveEmployment type: Full-timeJob function: Science