Lead Scientist, Organic/Medicinal Chemistry

Ambrx Inc., is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing Precision Biologics using an expanded genetic code. Ambrx technology uses an expanded genetic code to incorporate synthetic amino acids into protein, all completed within a living cell. These synthetic amino acids enable the creation of Precision Biologics, an exciting new class of therapeutics with broad application and potential. This includes next-generation antibody drug conjugates (ADCs), bispecifics, and targeted immuno-oncology therapies for cancer as well as smart cytokines to modulate the immune system, and long-acting therapeutic peptides for metabolic and cardiovascular disease. We are seeking a highly creative and motivated organic/medicinal chemist with project leadership skills to be a key member of dynamic research organization. The successful candidate will be part of a growing chemistry team who can contribute to discovering novel protein therapeutics to help patients in need.

Primary Responsibilities:
• The successful candidate will lead internal/external programs and cross-functional teams to execute
project plans
• Lead our small molecule, linker, peptide design strategies and synthesis
• Independently carryout structure-activity relationship studies and interpret experimental results to
propose new compound designs
• Proven ability to initiate new programs and understanding of biology concepts to deliver proof-of-
concept data to make Go/No Go decisions
• Proven ability to identify problems and propose solutions to move programs forward
• Carryout analytical and preparative method development to support internal chemistry needs
• Communicate research findings to the key stake holders and present in project meetings/conferences
• Contribute to patent application writing and research reports
• Identify and establish working relationships with CROs and manage external chemistry resources
• Safe keeping and operation of lab and lab equipment

Qualifications:
• Ph.D. in organic/medicinal chemistry or related field with minimum 8-12 years of industry experience
as a Chemist
• Must have experience working with antibody drug conjugates (ADCs) and understanding of ADC field
• Proven track record in drug discovery project leadership and demonstrated success in Hit/Lead
identification and optimization and carrying out SAR studies
• Experience in structure-based and pharmacophore-based drug designs
• Experience in modern synthetic organic chemistry techniques, designing new synthetic routes for
biologically active molecules and carrying out multi-step synthesis in milligram to multi-gram scale
• Hands-on experience with analytical and purification equipment HPLC, LC-MS and NMR etc.
• Must have excellent presentation, written and verbal communication, organization, and collaborative
skills
To be considered as an applicant, please submit your resume/CV referencing the specific position of interest and position code to careers@ambrx.com. Applicants whose qualifications and experience most closely match the requirements of the position will be reviewed. Candidates will only be contacted for evaluative discussions. Ambrx offers competitive compensation & benefits.