Group Leader - Medicinal Chemistry

🔒 Confidential Employer
Posted 5 May 2026
LOCATION
Glasgow
TYPE
Full-time
LEVEL
Mid-Senior level
SALARY
£76,000 / year
CATEGORY
Science & Research
This employer holds a UK Home Office sponsor license — sponsorship for this specific role is at the employer’s discretion

SKILLS

Synthetic chemistry Medicinal chemistry Small molecule oncology Hit identification Lead optimization Team leadership Drug discovery Cross-functional collaboration

FULL DESCRIPTION

Group Leader - Medicinal Chemistry

[Employer hidden — view at passion-project.co.uk] is hiring a Group Leader in Medicinal Chemistry. Salary: £67,000 - £76,000 per year. Location: CRUK Scotland Institute, Glasgow. Closing date: 11 May 2026.

About the Role

At [Employer hidden], we exist to beat cancer. We currently have an exciting opportunity within our Drug Discovery team for an experienced individual to help lead and drive our Medicinal Chemistry strategy. We are seeking an accomplished scientific and people leader who can articulate a vision for our mission and set direction and inspire commitment for preclinical Discovery.

Reporting directly to the Vice President, Medicinal Chemistry & DMPK, you will set the vision and lead a team, seeking to accelerate novel therapies into clinical development. You will also play a Leadership role in the wider Chemistry department, contributing to the Strategic direction of Chemistry within Cancer Research Horizons.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead and inspire a high-performing team to provide excellence in synthetic and medicinal chemistry across our small molecule oncology portfolio.
  • Strengthen early-stage hit identification capabilities working with the co-located Target Validation Group.
  • Bring significant late-stage lead optimisation experience to support drug discovery programmes towards candidate nomination.
  • Represent the department across a broad range of therapeutic projects and cross-site initiatives, and externally.
  • Contribute to and lead specific aspects of scientific and technical innovation, including novel modalities, incorporating external collaboration and partnership.

Application Instructions

Click here for the full job spec and to apply.

Application Closing Date: 11 May 2026

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