Senior Computational Chemist - UOD2212

We are recruiting for an exceptional individual to join us as a Computational Chemist/Senior Computational Chemist within our Computational Drug Discovery Applications Team, to apply and develop computational approaches that directly drive compound design, project decision‑making and the progression of small‑molecule drug discovery programmes. This is an open‑ended appointment, subject to continued external funding.

The role focuses on applying computational chemistry, cheminformatics and data‑driven methods to generate actionable insights, propose synthetically feasible compound designs and support progression from hit identification through to lead optimisation. Depending on experience, you may also help shape computational strategy and mentor junior colleagues.

This is an opportunity to work in a fully integrated, industry‑style drug discovery environment within a world‑leading academic setting. You will have access to substantial HPC resources, industry‑standard software and a diverse project portfolio addressing both global health and innovative targets. We welcome applicants from both computational and medicinal chemistry backgrounds who are motivated by impact, collaboration and seeing their ideas translated into real compounds.

Please note that applications made on a part‑time basis for this role will not be considered.

Your priorities will include:

• Collaborating with interdisciplinary project teams to support compound design and project decision‑making
• Applying computational chemistry and cheminformatics methods to analyse SAR and propose design hypotheses
• Developing and using reproducible modelling and data analysis workflows
• Communicating computational insights clearly to experimental colleagues
• Contributing to a culture of scientific excellence, urgency and collaboration

Who we're looking for:

• A PhD‑level scientist (or equivalent experience) in computational chemistry, cheminformatics, or medicinal chemistry with strong computational expertise
• Experience applying computational methods in a small‑molecule drug discovery context
• Strong scripting skills (e.g. Python and/or KNIME) and familiarity with modelling software
• Good understanding of medicinal chemistry concepts and how they influence design and ADME risk
• A collaborative, proactive individual motivated to drive projects forward