Zenith Therapeutics is redefining drug discovery through a new approach to protein degradation. Our team has identified key ligases that govern the turnover of hard-to-drug transcription factors and convert these pairs into druggable protein-protein interfaces. With an initial focus on oncology and immune modulation, we are committed to advancing highly impactful precision medicines across multiple disease areas.
Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, Zenith was created by Ridgeline Discovery, a Versant Ventures Discovery Engine, and is backed by leading investors in the biotech sector.
We are looking for an experienced Computational Chemist to join our growing drug discovery team. In this key role, you will lead our computational approaches for identifying and optimizing molecular glues. As recognized expert in this field, you will drive cheminformatics and structure-based efforts across multiple programs – from library design to advanced optimization.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Develop and implement the computational chemistry strategy in collaboration with internal stakeholders
- Develop and implement rational approaches for library design, modeling of protein-protein interactions and compound design
- Analyze complex datasets (biochemical and cellular SAR, ADME, PK, and structural data) to drive drug discovery decisions
- Support drug discovery programs from initial hit identification to candidate selection
QUALIFICATIONS
- Ph.D. in a relevant field and a strong background in computational chemistry
- 5+ years of experience in the pharmaceutical or biotech industry focusing on small molecules
- Deep understanding of drug discovery processes, medicinal chemistry, ADMET principles, and multiparameter compound optimization
- Proven track record of impacting drug discovery projects in a biotech or pharmaceutical setting through creative computational chemistry approaches
- Hands-on expertise in structure-based drug design approaches, and tools as well as cheminformatics, and data analytics/visualization
- Strong communication skills with the ability to build productive relationships collaborations both internally and externally
- Thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment where you take full ownership of your contributions and development
WHAT WE CURRENTLY OFFER
- People: We are an international and diverse team with talented and passionate people.
- Creativity: We offer an innovative and creative environment.
- Development: We support the individual development of our employees.
- Fun: From time-to-time we organise cool off-site summer and winter team events.
- Offices: Our well-equipped laboratories and offices are located at the Tech Park, a premier address for early-stage start-ups in Basel.
- Commuter Benefits: We support our employees tailored to their personal needs in commuting to work and offer parking facilities or a commuter contribution.
- Flexible Working: We support flexible working as appropriate.
- Christmas Closure: In addition to the 24 holidays per year, our offices/labs are closed between Christmas and New Year.
- Birthday Retreat: On top of that, your birthday is your personal holiday - our employees enjoy their birthday with a day off.
- Food: We like get-togethers during lunch time. Enjoy tasty, subsidised meals from our FELFEL food fridge.
- Coffee: Meet up with your colleagues and grab free coffee.
To apply, please submit your completed application form along with your CV, cover letter, and reference letters (Arbeitszeugnisse).