Head of Automated Small Molecule Synthesis
Core
Lead the strategy, design, and execution of fully automated, robotic platforms for small molecule synthesis to accelerate AI-integrated Design–Make–Test–Analyze (DMTA) cycles.
Role type
Director-level Head of Automated Small Molecule Synthesis
Builds
Automated synthesis workflows, reaction scouting, parallel synthesis, scale-out, and purification systems integrated with AI/ML.
Domain
Pharmaceutical R&D, automated chemistry, robotics, AI-driven drug discovery
Deliverable
production ML models
Required skills
Deep medicinal chemistry knowledge (SAR, SBDD, cheminformatics, ADME/PK), lab/chemical process automation scaling, cross-functional R&D team leadership, AI-driven DMTA and autonomous design-make loops, scheduling software, LIMS/ELN, change management, reliability engineering, EHS/machine safety, cybersecurity.
Preferred skills
Experience with liquid-handling robotics, continuous flow, microreactors, smart reactors, generative chemistry tools, high-throughput experimentation (HTE), flow chemistry, automated purification.
Technologies
Robotic reaction screening, parallel synthesis systems, purification systems (flash/Prep-HPLC), ELN/LIMS, scheduling/orchestration systems, generative chemistry tools.
Responsibilities
Define and execute automation strategy aligning with discovery goals; prioritize automation investments in equipment, software, and talent; establish closed-loop DMTA vision integrating robotics and AI/ML; design end-to-end automated workflows for reaction scouting, parallel synthesis, scale-out, and purification; standardize method libraries and digital SOPs; continuously evaluate and integrate new technologies; accelerate DMTA cycles via HTE and automated purification; drive reliability engineering, preventive maintenance, and improvements; integrate EHS, machine safety, and cybersecurity; scale workflows from prototype to routine; engage externally through patents, publications, and presentations.
Seniority
Director, hands-on IC with strategic leadership
