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Salary: USD 108,500 - 201,500 / annual
Mariana Oncology is seeking a Principal Scientist I in Medicinal Chemistry to join the Discovery Chemistry team and advance innovative radiopharmaceutical and precision medicine programs, with a focus on peptide-based therapeutics. This role combines hands-on technical contribution with strategic leadership in medicinal chemistry from hit identification through candidate nomination.
Key responsibilities include leading medicinal chemistry design and synthesis activities across the drug discovery pipeline; executing multi-step peptide syntheses to support radiopharmaceutical discovery; providing scientific leadership and operational oversight for peptide synthesis laboratory activities; serving as an internal subject matter expert in peptide chemistry to drive problem-solving and advise project teams on synthetic strategy; mentoring junior scientists, co-ops, and interns; managing external CRO relationships; collaborating with cross-functional teams (biology, radiochemistry, DMPK, pharmacology) to advance discovery programs; deriving insights from chemistry, affinity, pharmacology, and DMPK datasets to inform molecular design and candidate selection; presenting project updates and scientific findings to teams and leadership; maintaining accurate electronic laboratory notebook records and ensuring compliance with laboratory safety and HSE requirements; partnering with Development colleagues to transfer synthetic methods and analytical procedures; and delivering high-quality results while managing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Requirements:
- PhD in Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, or related discipline with 0–3 years of relevant industry experience; OR BS/MS in Chemistry or related discipline with 6+ years of relevant industry experience.
- Demonstrated expertise in peptide medicinal chemistry and peptide synthesis (required); small-molecule medicinal chemistry experience is a plus.
- Strong understanding of drug discovery principles, medicinal chemistry, structure-based drug design, and synthetic organic chemistry.
- Proven ability to independently solve complex scientific challenges and develop creative, practical solutions.
- Experience managing external CROs and scientific collaborations.
- Demonstrated ability to influence project direction, build productive cross-functional relationships, and thrive in a collaborative, matrixed environment.
- Excellent communication, organizational, and scientific writing skills with strong attention to detail.
