Director, Discovery Chemistry

Overview AUROBAC THERAPEUTICS is a biopharmaceutical company founded in 2022 by three highly renowned life sciences innovation companies: Boehringer Ingelheim, Evotec, and bioMérieux. Dedicated to addressing high unmet medical needs associated with infections and their complications in acute hospital settings, the company is advancing a robust pipeline of drug candidates to combat the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Employment Details Responsibilities Lead and expand the discovery chemistry function, setting strategic priorities for antibiotic discovery programs. Oversee compound design, synthesis, SAR development, and optimization to balance potency, safety, PK/PD, and developability. Manage project execution across discovery programs, ensuring clear objectives, realistic timelines, and resource allocation to drive compounds from design through preclinical milestones. Monitor project planning, proactively identify risks, adjust priorities, and communicate progress and decisions to leadership and external partners. Provide scientific leadership and mentoring for the chemistry team. Define the correct structure for discovery chemistry activities between in‑house capabilities versus external sourcing. Manage internal and external resources (CROs, academic collaborators, strategic partners). Collaborate with cross-functional teams (biology, DMPK, pharmacology, clinical) to deliver high-quality candidates. Play a key role in defining company strategy and direction within the AUROBAC leadership team. Stay strongly engaged with advances in antibiotic drug discovery, resistance mechanisms, medicinal chemistry, and computer-aided discovery methodologies. Contribute to publications, patents, and represent the company at scientific conferences. Personal Skills Strong demonstrable leadership and scientific skills. Innovative and visionary problem‑solver. Strong in both strategic thinking and day‑to‑day execution to achieve operational excellence. Excellent communication skills, both internally and with external partners. Fluency in English is a must‑have; French language skills would be a major plus. Professional Experience PhD in Medicinal Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, or related field. 12+ years of experience in drug discovery, with a focus on anti‑infectives/antibiotics strongly preferred. Proven success in advancing compounds from hit to lead to development candidate. Strong knowledge of antibacterial pharmacology, resistance mechanisms, and Gram‑negative penetration challenges. Experience with managing and growing high‑performing scientific teams. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively across disciplines and with external partners. How to Apply Send your CV and cover letter to jobs@aurobac-tx.com mentioning the reference ATX25‑09. For more information on how we process your personal data, please visit https://aurobac-tx.com/privacy-statement/. #J-18808-Ljbffr